cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cashless Payment and Financial Inclusion

This paper evaluates the impact of mobile cashless payment on credit provision to the underprivileged. Using a representative sample of Alipay users that contained detailed information about their activities in consumption, credit, investment, and digital footprints, I exploit a natural experiment to identify the real effects of cashless payment adoption. In this natural experiment, the staggered placement of Alipay-bundled shared bikes across different Chinese cities brings exogenous variations to the payment flow, allowing me to address the endogeneity issues and establish a causal relationship. I find that the use of in-person payment in a month increases the likelihood of getting access to credit in the same month by 56.3%. Conditional on having credit access, a 1% increase in the in-person payment flow leads to a 0.41% increase in the credit line. Those having higher in-person payment flow also use their credit lines more. Importantly, the positive effect of in-person payment flow on credit provision mainly exists for the less educated and the older, suggesting that cashless payment particularly benefits those who are traditionally underserved.
Invertebrates Associated with the Thinstripe Hermit Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Diogenidae) from the Barrier Islands of Mississippi

Hermit crabs, the gastropod shells that they inhabit, and associated epifauna constitute a motile microhabitat. Twenty-three macroscopic. epifaunal invertebrates were associated with the diogenid crab Clihanarius vittatus in Mississippi coastal waters. Epibiotic growth may discourage predation of the crab, reduce competition for the shells, or provide an advantage in agonistic shell interaction. In addition, the shell provides a hard substrate for settling and attachment of epifauna in an area that is largely devoid of hard substrate. Reduced sedimentation and prevention of shell burial, improved food availability, transport, and protection from predation may also be advantageous to the epizoans.
Estrogen Receptor Status and the Future Burden of Invasive and In Situ Breast Cancers in the United States

Background No study has predicted the future incidence rate and annual burden (number) of new cases in the United States of invasive and in situ female breast cancers stratified by the estrogen receptor (ER) status. Methods We constructed forecasts for women age 30 to 84 years in 2011 through 2030 using cancer incidence data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, novel age-period-cohort forecasting models, and population projections from the US Census Bureau. Results The total number of new tumors (invasive plus in situ) is expected to rise from 283 000 in 2011 to 441 000 in 2030 (plausible range 353 500 to 466 700 cases). The proportion of all new case patients age 70 to 84 years is expected to increase from 24.3% to 34.8%, while the proportion ages 50 to 69 years is expected to decrease from 54.7% to 43.6%. The proportion of ER-positive invasive cancers is expected to remain nearly the same at 62.6%, whereas the proportion of ER-positive in situ cancers is expected to increase from 19.1% to 28.9%. The proportion of ER-negative cancers (invasive and in situ) is expected to decrease from 16.8% to 8.6%. Conclusions Breast cancer overall will rise in the United States through 2030, especially for ER-positive in situ tumors among women age 70 to 84 years. In contrast, ER-negative invasive and in situ tumors will fall, for reasons that are not fully understood. These results highlight a need to optimize case management among older women, characterize the natural history of in situ cancers, and identify those factors responsible for declining ER-negative incidence.
Chapter 8 Problem solving, inhibition, and frontal lobe function

Abstract Traditionally, cognitive models of problem solving have not incorporated inhibitory mechanisms, conceiving of human thinking as similar to the computations carried out by a serial computer (e.g., Newell & Simon, 1972 ). This chapter seeks to demonstrate the importance of inhibition in problem solving by examining subject populations with selective impairments of cognitive inhibition associated with frontal lobe pathology. Studies of three groups with putative frontal lobe dysfunction are reviewed: patients with focal lesions of the prefrontal cortex; schizophrenics; and the normal elderly. It is argued that the basic deficits observed in these groups reflect breakdowns in a supervisory attentional system that modulates problem-solving activity and that is subserved by the frontal cortex (Shallice, 1982) . It is concluded that it is time to abandon the computer metaphor of human problem solving and adopt a brain metaphor.
Portal vein embolization (prior to major hepatectomy) effects on regeneration, resectability, and outcome

Portal vein embolization (PVE) is used to increase the volume and function of the liver that will remain after extensive liver resection. Operative outcomes are improved in properly selected patients who undergo PVE and experience adequate future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy. Absolute volume and volume change of the FLR after PVE (interpreted in context of liver disease) predict adequate liver function postresection. Oncologic outcomes following resection in patients with appropriately applied PVE are excellent. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:960–967. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Reassembly of a Membrane-bound Multienzyme System I. FORMATION OF A PARTICLE CONTAINING PHOSPHATIDYLETHANOLAMINE, LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE, AND TWO GLYCOSYLTRANSFERASE ENZYMES

Abstract A two-enzyme segment of a membrane-bound series of glycosyltransferase enzymes from Salmonella typhimurium has been reconstituted in vitro from the purified components. The reassembled structure contained the two enzymes (glucosyl- and galactosyltransferases) together with phosphatidylethanolamine and lipopolysaccharide. Isolation by differential centrifugation and isopycnic centrifugation of a particle containing the four components, and the demonstration that the coupled activity of the two enzymes was restored, indicate that the enzyme proteins were properly inserted into a common phospholipid-lipopolysaccharide matrix.
MAI: multiple attributes integration for deadline-aware pull-based broadcast scheduling

With the uprising popularity of large-scale applications, highly scalable data delivery is becoming a major requirement. As the downlink bandwidth increases, it becomes critical for these applications to have efficient on-demand scheduling mechanisms to increase the number of users that can be supported for dynamically changing workloads. Meanwhile some emerging applications impose deadlines to complete the broadcast service. In this paper, we consider a time-critical wireless broadcast dissemination approach to meet user specific deadlines. We describe a deadline-aware algorithm, called the multiple attributes integration (MAI), to schedule on-demand requests based on a number of attributes. Our results suggest that MAI can significantly increase the system performance.
Effects of Rho GTPase CDC42 on Th2 and Th17 differentiation (CCR6P.277)

We have reported that cell-division-cycle 42 (CDC42) of Rho GTPase family was important for T cell development and homeostasis with the use of conditional CDC42-deficient mice (CDC42flox/LckCre), in which CDC42 was deleted in CD4-CD8- double negative stage of thymocytes. Recently, we generated another line of conditional CDC42-deficient mice with selective expression of the Cre recombinase beginning at a late stage of T cell development (after positive selection of CD4+CD8+) using the distal promoter of the Lck (dLck) gene. We found that CDC42-deficiency (CDC42flox/dLckCre) did not affect T cell development, as expected. The development of natural regulatory T cells (nTreg) was also not affected by CDC42-deficiency. However, CDC42-deficiency impaired in vitro activation of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. When naive CD4+ T cells were cultured under non-polarized conditions, CDC42-deficiency significantly reduced Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion, but slightly increased Th17 cytokine secretion from CD4+ T cells. Under Th1/Th2/Th17-polarized conditions, CDC42-deficiency significantly downregulated Th2-differentiation, but was less effective to Th1 and Th17 differentiation. CDC42 has no significant role on the induction of Treg in vitro. The ongoing studies are trying to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Our findings suggest that CDC42 of Rho GTPase is not only crucial for T cell development and activation, but also involved in Th differentiation, especially Th2 cells.
Balancing selection and MHC.

The MHC is highly polymorphic in most vertebrates and the suggested selective mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of this variation are several, including maternal‐fetal interaction, parasite resistance, and negative-assortative mating. Evidence for these mechanisms is reviewed and estimates of the amount of selection in a number of studies are given. Although there is much yet to be understood about the mechanism and extent of balancing selection at MHC, new advances in molecular genetic technology and increasing interest in MHC from many types of biologists promise answers in the near future.
Large scale multimedia and interactive television

Summary form only given, as follows. The confluence of social and technological readiness signals that the widespread use of a new technology is coming. New developments, both technical and business, regarding the digital highway, networked multimedia and interactive TV are reported everyday. This field is both a large driver and consumer of technology. Large scale multimedia and interactive TV will provide personal interactive access to vast quantities of information in video and multimedia forms. The end user will have available many exciting applications for use in entertainment, education, and business. End to end systems comprised of electronic repositories, high speed networks, TVs, PCs, and other personal devices will be integrated. These systems depend on a variety of new technologies that are just now emerging. The author focuses on applications, end to end systems and the various new technologies. In particular he discusses the following applications; video on demand, near video on demand, home shopping, education in school and home, training, manufacturing, and marketing. The following technologies are also discussed; large, scalable servers, ATM networking, RF modem technologies (QAM and VSB), ADSL, MPEG compression and transport. >
Threshold and Rate of Dark Adaptation as Functions of Aǵe and Time

In order to describe one family of dark adaptation curves obtained from an age sample ranging from 16 through 89 years, a mathematical model of the formwas derived.It was found that the model could be generalized. In addition it was concluded that threshold of dark adaptation as a function of time was lawfully related to chronological age.Rate of adaptation was determined by differentiating the equation at time 30 sec and time 6 min as follows:The results showed that rate of dark adaptation was a curvilinear function of age.These findings are consistent with the hypotheses that dark adaptation threshold and rate of dark adaptation depend upon basic underlying physiological processes that change with age.
Mitral valve abnormalities in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: echocardiographic features and surgical outcomes.

Background Functional and intrinsic mitral valve (MV) abnormalities are common in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM); however, morphologic characteristics constituting indications for surgical intervention are incompletely defined. This study was conducted to define the echocardiographic features of MV pathology in patients with HCM and relate these to repairability of the MV, MV procedures performed, durability of repair, and survival. Methods From 1986 to 2003, 851 patients with HCM underwent operation, and 115 had a concomitant MV procedure. Detailed analysis of their 784 transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms, performed intraoperatively and postoperatively, was conducted. Outcomes were assessed by cross-sectional follow-up. Results Sixty-seven patients (58%) underwent MV repair, and 48 (42%) had MV replacement. The mean left ventricular outflow tract peak gradient was 70 ± 50 mm Hg. Systolic anterior motion was present in 95%. Valve abnormalities were degenerative in 36 (31%), myxomatous in 23 (20%), papillary muscle in 23 (20%), restrictive chordal in 22 (19%), restrictive leaflet in 80 (70%), and long leaflet in 64 (56%). Patients undergoing MV repair had higher prevalence of long leaflets and degenerative MV pathology. The anterior mitral leaflet was 3.0 ± 0.49 cm in the repair group vs 2.5 ± 0.40 cm in the replacement group ( p = 0.0001). MV replacement patients were older, more symptomatic, and had more renal dysfunction and lower hematocrits. By 3 years, 91% of patients with a repair were free of reoperation. Conclusions Intrinsic MV pathology is frequently observed in HCM patients with symptomatic obstruction who undergo myectomy. Echocardiography can identify MV features predictive of successful valve repair. Repair, although durable, is feasible in only about half of patients.
Vapor phase epitaxy of GaN usingGaCl3N2 andNH3N2

Thermodynamic calculations were done on chloride transport vapor phase epitaxy of GaN usingGaCl3N2 andNH3N2. At typical growth temperature and gas flow rates, both GaN formation and gas phase etching reactions of GaN were thermodynamically favored. Under thermodynamic equilibrium, most ammonia should decompose to nitrogen and hydrogen gases and gas phase etching of GaN occurs by HCl. From experimental measurements, less than 10% of the incoming ammonia decomposes and under this condition, GaN formation fromGaCl3N2 andNH3N2 is thermodynamically favored. This calculation matches our experimental results. Experimentally, we have optimized the growth conditions of GaN. High crystalline quality thick GaN films (10–15 μm) were grown on c-Al2O3. The GaN films show band-edge emission dominated PL at both room temperature and 77 K. From the o-scan, the GaN films grown on c-Al2O3 are single crystalline. The typical growth rates were about 10–15 μm/h.
The effect of potassium on the electrocardiogram: clinical and transmembrane correlations.

SUMMARY This review has attempted to synthesize contemporary knowledge regarding potassium and the ECG. We have stressed information obtained from the transmembrane resting and action potential correlating it with ionic gradients during the four phases of the single cardiac cycle. Alterations in these events occurring during the normal, hyperkalemic and hypokalemic states have been discussed. Information regarding this subject has been culled from the procedure of hemodialysis, and measurements of MRP, MAP and arteriovenous electrolyte concentrations in mild and severe ischemic states in the dog. The relationship between serum potassium abnormalities and the ECG of arrhythmias, myocardial infarction and myocardial ischemia is discussed.
Physical and biological properties of fluorescent dansylated bile salt derivatives: the role of steroid ring hydroxylation.

Abstract The hydroxyl groups of bile salts play a major role in determining their physical properties and physiologic behavior. To date, no fluorescent bile salt derivatives have been prepared which permit evaluation of the functional role of the steroid ring. We have prepared five fluorescent cholanoyl derivatives using a dansyl-ethylene diamine precursor linked to the sulfonyl group of taurine; N-(5-dimethylamino-1-naphthalenesulfonyl)-N′-(2-aminoethanesulfonyl))-ethylenediamine. The fluorescent dansyl-taurine was conjugated to the carboxyl group of free bile acids, enabling the labeliing of the series: dehydrocholate, ursodeoxycholate, cholate, chenodeoxycholate and deoxycholate. Despite a systematic hydrophobic shift compared with the native bile salts (aqueous solubility and water: octanol partitioning), the influence of steroid ring hydroxylation was retained, with the dehydrocholate and cholate derivatives more water soluble than the dihydroxy derivatives. Similarly, the sequence of HPLC mobilities, reflecting relative hydrophilicity, was identical in the dansyl-taurine derivatives and the native taurine-conjugated bile salts. Cellular uptake of all five steroid derivatives was rapid, and partial inhibition of [3H]taurocholate uptake was observed in isolated hepatocytes. Rates of biliary excretion of the dansylated derivatives by the isolated perfused rat liver correlated closely with hydrophilicity. Collectively, these findings indicate that the influence of the hydroxyl groups is retained in this series of dansylated steroids, and that hydroxylation is a key determinant of their hepatocellular transport and biliary excretion. These fluorescent bile salt derivatives may thus serve as unique probes for investigating structure-function relationships in hepatic processing of steroid-based compounds.
Introduction: Assessing the Social and Political Impact of the Internet and New Social Media in Asia

This paper introduces a special issue on the social and political impact of new information communications technologies (ICTs) in Asia, with specific attention paid to new social media. This paper provides some contextualisation of the broader questions that the principal literature on the subject raises, namely questions about the effectiveness of ICTs as tools for mobilisation and information exchange; mechanisms of censorship and control; and the nature of public discourse on the Internet. In doing so, the paper introduces and locates the articles that comprise this special issue within these debates.
A golden micro-trap for anesthetic depth monitoring using human breath samples

This paper reports a golden micro-trap chip for anesthetic depth monitoring (ADM). The chip selectively captures the anesthetic compound propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) by filtering out the other species found in human breath. The 12mm×12mm×1mm silicon-glass chip has an array of high aspect ratio parabolic reflectors inside its 7mm×7mm×0.24mm cavity and is coated with an electroplated gold layer. This device shows subject independent results with the propofol peak area variation within 8%. This microfabricated chip has the potential to accurately quantify the amount of propofol present in human breath sample without incorporating the gas chromatography (GC) column into the testing setup, resulting in faster analysis and reduced cost and complexity.
Towards absolute invariants of images under translation, rotation, and dilation

Abstract We propose several types of phase invariants for images. The phase Taylor invariant and the phase Hessian invariant are invariant under translation. The phase Mellin invariant is invariant under rotation and dilation. We also derive invariants under translation and rotation. All the invariants obtained are absolute in the sense that they preserve all information except that of position, orientation or scale.
Hemodynamic abnormalities following cardiac transplantation: relationship to hypertension and survival.

Abstract The prevalence and long-term implications of hemodynamic abnormallties seen at 1 year following orthotopic heart transplantation and their relationship to post-transplant hypertension were prospectively evaluated in 82 consecutive asymptomatic recipients taking cyclosporine and prednisone who underwent annual catheterization. Abnormal left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), ejection traction (EF), and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure-volume ratio (R) were the most prevalent hemodynamic abnormalities (27%, 14%, and 23%, respectively, at 1 year). Patients with abnormal LVEDP or R had higher ( p p p
Pathophysiological Relationships Between Periodontitis and Systemic Disease: Recent Concepts Involving Serum Lipids

Periodontitis has been traditionally regarded as a chronic inflammatory oral infection. However, recent studies indicate that this oral disease may have profound effects on systemic health. The search for cellular/molecular mechanisms linking periodontitis to changes in systemic health and systemic physiology has resulted in the evolution of a new area of lipid research establishing linkages between existing multidisciplinary biomedical literature, recent observations concerning the effects of serum lipids on immune cell phenotype/function, and a heightened interest in systemic responses to chronic localized infections. There appears to be more than a casual relationship between serum lipid levels and systemic health (particularly cardiovascular disease, diabetes, tissue repair capacity, and immune cell function), susceptibility to periodontitis, and serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In terms of the potential relationship between periodontitis and systemic disease, it is possible that periodontitis-induced changes in immune cell function cause metabolic dysregulation of lipid metabolism through mechanisms involving proinflammatory cytokines. Sustained elevations of serum lipids and/or pro-inflammatory cytokines may have a serious negative impact on systemic health. The purpose of this paper is to present the background, supporting data, and hypotheses related to this concept. As active participants in this emerging and exciting area of investigation, we hope to stimulate interest and awareness among biomedical scientists and practitioners.
The microsurgical safety task force: guidelines for minimizing endophthalmitis with vitrectomy surgery.

Purpose of review The transition from 20-gauge vitrectomy surgery to 23-gauge and 25-gauge instrumentation was not without its complications. Early instrumentation provided limitations in surgical technique, including limited illumination, instrument flex, and efficiency of vitreous removal. The most concerning finding arose from two separate retrospective studies which reported increased rates of postoperative endophthalmitis following small-gauge vitrectomy. This situation raised questions as to whether this shift in technique was appropriate. Recent findings Following these concerning reports of complication, a Microsurgery Safety Task Force was convened to evaluate the scientific evidence and create guidelines with the intent to minimize the rates of postoperative infection with small-gauge vitrectomy surgery. Further studies of wound architecture and advances in instrumentation and surgical technique have improved outcomes. More recent studies demonstrate equivalent rates of postoperative endophthalmitis between 20-gauge and smaller gauge instrumentation. Summary The guidelines of the Microsurgery Safety Task Force, evolutions in instrumentation and surgical technique, and improved understanding of small-gauge vitrectomy wound construction have yielded comparable results in endophthalmitis rates for small-gauge vitrectomy versus traditional 20-gauge approaches.
Europe’s Role in China’s Transition to Superpower Status

What can Western powers do today to ease an eventual global power shift resulting from the rise of superpowers such as China? This paper suggests that part of the answer lies in the same power-binding institutions that allowed the US to rise post WWII without threatening its allies. Continuity in the rules of the global system during a great power transition would promote stability by reducing uncertainty, as well as the extent to which material power can be used coercively. I argue that current superpowers, the EU among them, have an interest in ensuring an equitable distribution of the gains from cooperation. While distributional issues are usually treated in normative terms, they take on very real, material meaning in the context of a great power transition. With this in mind, I look at three aspects of the current global institutional framework that would benefit from reform: international trade and aid, institutional design, and institutional proliferation. In all three cases, a more equal distribution of the gains from institutions today increases the odds that those institutional arrangements will remain in the future.
Overexpression of leukotriene C4 synthase (LTC4S) and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) gene promoter polymorphisms in sinusitis☆

Abstract Rationale We have investigated the genetic predisposition of two forms of sinusitis: chronic hyperplastic eosinophilic sinusitis (CHES) and chronic inflammatory sinusitis (CIS). Studies have described polymorphisms in genes involved with both leukotriene synthesis and remodeling. A polymorphism in the promoter of the LTC4S gene has been identified that is a C-to-A base exchange that influences gene expression. The PAI-1 gene has been associated with tissue fibrosis and could be involved in polyp formation. This gene has a polymorphism consisting of either 4G or 5G residues in the promoter which alters transcription of the PAI-1 gene. We have investigated the role of these polymorphisms in CHES and CIS. Methods DNA was obtained from patients undergoing nasal polyp surgery or from control donors with no history of sinus disease. Polyp tissue underwent blinded pathological examination and scored for the presence of eosinophils. Polyps were classified into two groups based on the presence (CHES) or the absence of eosinophils (CIS). DNA was analyzed for the LTC4S or PAI-1 promoter polymorphisms. Results Our studies demonstrated that the A allele for the LTC4S gene was found at a higher frequency in patients with both CHES and CIS (q=0.28) when compared to a control group without disease (q=0.19) consistent with the described expression of leukotrienes. The 4G allele of the PAI-1 gene promoter was found at a higher frequency in patients with CIS (q=0.56) when compared to controls (q=0.38) or CHES (q=0.43). Conclusions There appears to be a genetic component that contributes to nasal polyp formation in sinusitis.
Oxytocin augmentation of dysfunctional labor

Plasma oxytocin levels ([OT]p) were measured every 20 minutes during infusions of oxytocin. The initial dose of 1 mU/min was incremented, if necessary, by 1 mU/min at 40-minute intervals until sufficient contractility was obtained to effect cervical dilatation. The results demonstrated: (1) the [OT]p rises linearly with each dose for the first 40 minutes of the infusion; (2) there is no difference between the 40- and 60-minute sample values, suggesting that the peak [OT]p of each dose is achieved in 40 minutes; (3) the increment in [OT]p required to produce effective contractility varies widely from 0.58 to 5.09 μU/ml; (4) the plasma clearance rate varied from 11.2 to 32.5 ml/kg/min. Approximately 40 minutes is required for any particular dose of oxytocin to reach a “steady-state” [OT]p and the maximal uterine contractile response. The design of regimens for the augmentation or induction of labor should be based on this knowledge.
Patellar height ratios : A comparison of four measurement methods

Three blinded observers on three separate occasions calculated four commonly employed patellar height ra tios on the knees of 15 patients who had three lateral radiographs each. The observers used the same mea surement instrument, a hand-held goniometer ruler, to determine the relative reliability of each patellar height ratio. The measurements by the three observers were examined, and the error and reliability of the four meth ods of measurement were tested statistically. Among the four methods of measuring patellar height that we studied, the Blackburne-Peel method most consis tently reproduced the patellar height index. Interob server measurement error averaged 0.06 for all ratios. Values greater than 0.06 represented real patellar height changes. The ratios were not significantly af fected by the change of knee flexion angle from 30° to 50°. Side-to-side patellar height measurement differ ences averaged 0.16, which suggests that the healthy contralateral limb is not reliable as a control. Mild ar thri...
On the equilibrium and stability of a row of point vortices

The equilibrium and stability of a single row of equidistantly spaced identical point vortices is a classical problem in vortex dynamics, which has been addressed by several investigators in different ways for at least a century. Aspects of the history and the essence of these treatments are traced, stating some in more accessible form, and pointing out interesting and apparently new connections between them. For example, it is shown that the stability problem for vortices in an infinite row and the stability problem for vortices arranged in a regular polygon are solved by the same eigenvalue problem for a certain symmetric matrix. This result also provides a more systematic enumeration of the basic instability modes. The less familiar theory of equilibria of a finite number of vortices situated on a line is also recalled.
Neonatal administration of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) alters the neurochemical response to stress in the adult Fischer-344 rat.

Abstract Fischer-344 rat pups were injected with either 10 mg/kg delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or vehicle on postnatal days 4, 6 and 8. Pups were then allowed to mature. On day 129 of age rats were exposed to a stress paradigm which consisted of inescapable electric foot-shock administered at 1 mA for 15 sec daily for 8 days. Analgesia induced by foot-shock was measured by tail withdrawal from 55 degree C water. On the 9th day rats were exposed to the shock environment only. Fifteen minutes following measurement of tail withdrawal, animals were sacrificed. Plasma corticosterone and prolactin were measured. Levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine and metabolites were determined in frontal cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus. Neontal exposure to THC produced an increase in baseline tail withdrawal latency. No effect of THC exposure was seen on acute stress-induced analgesia. Rats exposed to THC required a greater number of conditioning trials to develop conditioned analgesia than animals treated neonatally with vehicle. The conditioned stress increased plasma corticosterone without affecting prolactin. Stress increased hypothalamic 5HT and 5HIAA while decreasing 5HT turnover in this area. Dopamine and DOPAC levels in the hypothalamus and frontal cortex were increased by stress; dopamine turnover in the frontal cortex was elevated by stress. Neonatal THC and stress elevated norepinephrine above control levels in the hypothalamus, while increasing 5HT in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. The stress-induced increase in DOPAC in the frontal cortex was decreased by THC exposure. These data suggest that long-term neurochemical changes may occur with neonatal administration of THC. Evidence that changes exist in the ability of the organism to react to stress was also apparent.
Elucidating the Substrate Specificity and Condensation Domain Activity of FkbP, the FK520 Pipecolate-Incorporating Enzyme†

Rapamycin, FK506, and FK520 are potent immunosuppressant natural product macrocycles generated by hybrid polyketide synthase (PKS)/nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) systems in streptomycetes. An important functional element within these molecules is an l-pipecolate moiety that is incorporated into the completed polyketide chain by the action of RapP/FkbP, a four-domain NRPS that also putatively serves to cyclize the chain after amino acid insertion. Here we report the expression and purification of recombinant FkbP from the FK520 biosynthetic pathway. Using a combination of radioassays and Fourier transform mass spectrometry, we demonstrate that once FkbP has been phosphopantetheinylated in vitro, its peptidyl carrier protein domain can be successfully loaded with l-pipecolic acid and, to a lesser extent, l-proline. The first condensation domain of FkbP is shown to be active through the successful acetylation of aminoacyl-S-FkbP using the appropriately loaded terminal acyl carrier protein from the PK...
Rapid sequencing of DNA based on single-molecule detection

Sequencing the human genome is a major undertaking considering the large number of nucleotides present in the genome and the slow methods currently available to perform the task. The authors have recently reported on a scheme to sequence DNA rapidly using a non-gel based technique. The concept is based upon the incorporation of fluorescently labeled nucleotides into a strand of DNA, isolation and manipulation of a labeled DNA fragment and the detection of single nucleotides using ultra-sensitive laser-induced fluorescence detection following their cleavage from the fragment. Detection of individual fluorophores in the liquid phase was accomplished with time-gated detection following pulsed-laser excitation. The photon bursts from individual rhodamine 6G (R6G) molecules travelling through a laser beam have been observed, as have bursts from single fluorescently modified nucleotides. Using two different biotinylated nucleotides as a model system for fluorescently labeled nucleotides, the authors have observed synthesis of the complementary copy of M13 bacteriophage. Work with fluorescently labeled nucleotides is underway. Individual molecules of DNA attached to a microbead have been observed and manipulated with an epifluorescence microscope.
Metal cation-exchanged Nafion® perfluorinated membranes as catalysts

Carbomethoxylation des olefines. Alkylation des composes aromatiques. Carbonylation oxydante du toluene en acide p-toluique
Black Candidates, Roll-Off, and the Black Vote

Previous research on racial differences in roll-off (ballot noncompletion) has shown that black voter roll-off is responsive to the relative size of the black electorate and the salience of the election to black voters. The authors examine racial differences in roll-off in 1996 Milwaukee County elections and attempt to explain why black voter roll-off is appreciably lower than would be expected given the relative size of the black electorate. By comparing findings from Milwaukee to other cities, the authors present a possible explanation that examines how the institutional context may condition mobilization factors.
Patents: to file or not to file?

In the previous paper, the author discussed the three criteria for patentability: novelty, usefulness, and nonobviousness and the practical value of obtaining a patent in terms of discoverability - the ease with which infringement can be determined, and in terms of avoidance - the ease with which a potential user of someone's invention could achieve similar results without using that invention. In this paper, the author continues the discussion of the practical value of a patent. Suppose that you have decided that your invention is novel, useful, and nonobvious. Further, suppose that you have decided that your invention is unavoidable (that is, it is the only reasonable way to do whatever it does), and that infringement would be easily discoverable. The remaining questions as to whether to proceed with a patent application are: Who would be likely to use your invention? Based on your answer to #1, what is the value to you of owning the patent? How much will it cost you to obtain the patent? Will your patent stand up in court if it is challenged?.
Structure of the self-concept from adolescence through old age.

Abstract The continuity over the major portion of the life-span (ages 9–89 yrs.) of the connotative structure of the self-concept was examined by factor analysis of a semantic differential instrument and found to be essentially constant. Significant age and sex differences in scores on the four components (Achievement/Leadership, Congeniality/Sociability, Adjustment, and Masculinity-Femininity) emerged and were interpreted.
Contemporary film and the representative anecdote of ‘unmasking’: Coping strategies for a narcissistic society

Kenneth Burke's concepts of the “representative anecdote” and “equipment for living” are prolific tools for rhetorical and media criticism. As applied to the discourse of contemporary film, these methods reveal an underlying story of “unmasking” which effectively provides equipment for living or coping strategies to an audience struggling to deal with the problems associated with narcissism in today's society.
Intravital imaging reveals distinct responses of depleting dynamic tumor-associated macrophage and dendritic cell subpopulations

Tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells fail to support antitumor immunity, and instead contribute to increased malignancy and poor prognosis in breast cancer. We used intravital microscopy in a model of breast cancer to provide unique insight into cellular composition and real-time dynamics of the stromal microenvironment. We characterized the effects of targeted therapy against CSF-1R, an important myeloid cell mitogen receptor. We demonstrate that by blocking accumulation and compromising survival, anti–CSF-1R treatment depletes a cell population sharing characteristics of tumor-associated macrophages and dendritic cells, which further comprises subgroups with different endocytic and matrix metalloproteinase activities. However, the resulting relatively modest delay in tumor growth and metastasis suggests that other cells, such as neutrophils or fibroblasts, may maintain the tumor trophic microenvironment.
956 ROLE OF CALCIUM IN INCREASED COMPLEMENT RECEPTOR EXPRESSION DURING NEUTROPHIL ACTIVATION

We have recently shown that human neutrophils increase expression of C3bi as well as C3b receptors (R) in response to f-met-leu-phe or other stimuli (J Clin Invest 74; 1566, ′84). Using monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry, we found that ionophore A23187 and 1.2 mM Ca2+ increased C3bR 330% and C3biR 650%. We therefore examined the role of Ca2+ in response to chemo-attractants. Addition of Ca2+ or EDTA to divalent cation-free media had no effect on C3bR expression while 1.2 mM Ca2+ slightly enhanced and 5 mM EDTA markedly inhibited C3biR expression, suggesting that the two receptors increase by different mechanisms. Mg2+ EGTA effects were identical to EDTA. TMB-8, which inhibits release of Ca from intracellular stores, completely blocked increased expression of both receptors at 200-250 uM. The calmodulin inhibitors chlorpromazine (50 uM) and trifluoperazine (10 uM) also blocked increased expression of both receptors while the inactive metabolite chlorpromazine sulfoxide had no effect. These results suggest that release of intracellular Ca2+ is necessary and sufficient for maximal C3bR expression but that optimal expression of C3biR also requires an influx of extracellular Ca2+. Regardless of the source of the Ca2+, formation of an active Ca2+ - calmodulin complex appears to be necessary for increased complement receptor expression during neutrophil activation.
Electrothermal switching in amorphous semiconductors

Abstract Solutions to the complete steady-state heat equations are obtained under the assumption of no significant heating of the electrodes. It has previously been shown that pure thermal effects cannot lead to switching under such conditions. In the present work, several models are investigated in which contact or bulk electronic effects are sufficient to obtain thermally induced differential negative resistance. Current-voltage characteristics, temperature distributions, and current-density distributions are presented.
Synthesis of ferroelectric PZT fibers using sol–gel technique

Abstract We report the synthesis technique for fabrication of fine Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 (PZT) fibers via combination of sol–gel route and pulling method. It was found that spinning characteristics of PZT gel fibers were dependent upon the hydrolysis and molarity of the solution. Long gel fibers (meter scale) were drawn by hand-pulling method from the spinnable PZT sol. The fibers were sintered at 950 °C in air atmosphere and found to exhibit dense microstructure with electrical properties similar to that of bulk. High aspect ratio and homogeneous microstructure resulted in increased mechanical flexibility of sintered fibers.
Gaussian neighborhood: A new measure of accessibility for residues of protein molecules

We introduce a new method for assessing the extent of residue exposure in proteins. For each atom of every residue a Gaussian-weighted atomic surroundings value (the G-neighborhood) is calculated. A normalized sum of G-neighborhood values over all the atoms of a residue is complementary to conventional surface accessibility characteristics. The G-0neighborhood value of a residue is a sensitive indicator of its location, strongly dependent on the 3D structure of a the protein. Correlations between secondary structures and patterns of G-neighborhood values for six different protein molecules are discussed. Comparison of the distribution of hydrophobic and charged residues in the 3D structure for the alcohol-soluble protein crambin and that of five water-soluble proteins (cytochrome c, flavodoxin, myoglobin, rhodanese, and Bence–Jones protein) shows striking differences in their G-neighborhood patterns. Contacts between the prosthetic group and the peptide portion of a protein as well as protein interdomain contacts and monomer–monomer contacts are characterized. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Theory for finite-width high-speed self-acting gas-lubricated slider /and partial-arc/ bearings.

Pressure distribution in finite width high speed self acting gas lubricated slider and partial arc bearings, noting trailing edge conditions and side leakage effects
Endodontic culturing:a statistical study

Paper points were used for culturing after intracanal medication. A determination was made of the number of consecutive points needed for the most reliable microbiological examination.
Gemcitabine-Based Doublets for Advanced Non—Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Beyond Gemcitabine/Cisplatin

Abstract Gemcitabine is one of the most active agents in the treatment of patients with advanced non—small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recent evidence indicates that gemcitabine/cisplatin is among the most active doublets in advanced NSCLC, but the problem of what to give patients who cannot tolerate cisplatin still remains. The combination of gemcitabine/carboplatin is under investigation. Initially thought to be too myelosuppressive, recent schedule modifications have made this a more feasible doublet for NSCLC. Nonplatinum doublets consisting of gemcitabine with the taxanes or vinorelbine are also under investigation. This review covers the most current trials of gemcitabine-based doublets in advanced NSCLC.
Structural Organization of the Actin Cytoskeleton at Sites of Clathrin-Mediated Endocytosis

Summary Background The dynamic actin cytoskeleton plays an important role in clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME). However, its exact functions remain uncertain as a result of a lack of high-resolution structural information regarding actin architecture at endocytic sites. Results Using platinum replica electron microscopy in combination with electron tomography, we found that actin patches associated with clathrin-coated structures (CCSs) in cultured mouse cells consist of a densely branched actin network, in which actin filament barbed ends are oriented toward the CCS. The shape of the actin network varied from a small lateral patch at the periphery of shallow CCSs, to a collar-like arrangement around partly invaginated CCSs with actin filament barbed ends abutting the CCS neck, to a polarized comet tail in association with highly constricted or fully endocytosed CCSs. Conclusions Our data suggest that the primary role of the actin cytoskeleton in CME is to constrict and elongate the bud neck and drive the endocytosed vesicles from the plasma membrane. Moreover, in these processes, barbed ends directly push onto the load, as in a conventional propulsion mechanism. Based on our findings, we propose a model for initiation, evolution, and function of the dendritic actin network at CCSs.
Film-Cooling Effectiveness and Skin Friction in Hypersonic Turbulent Flow

Experimental equilibrium temperatures and skin friction at the surface of a flat plate cooled by two-dimensional, tangential slot injection are presented for a Mach 6 mainstream. Effects of slot height, slot mass-flow rate, injection gas temperature, and heat conduction to the slot are investigated. Experimental skin friction and effectiveness data in general agree well with predictions from a finite-difference method. Film cooling at Mach 6 was found significantly more effective than at lower speeds, with large reductions in friction drag measured downstream of the slot These results indicate the necessity for a new evaluation of film-cooling systems for hypersonic vehicles.
Intermolecular energy transfer studied with picosecond light pulses

Abstract Singlet-singlet energy transfer between rhodamine 6G (donor) and malachite green (acceptor) has been observed directly using picosecond light pulses. The results are in accordance with the Forster theory up to the earliest time studied, i.e. 20 psec.
3893 Utility of endosonography and endosonography guided fine needle aspiration in evaluation of cystic pancreatic lesions.

Background: Distinguishing benign from potentially malignant PCL is problematic. Limited data support the role of EUS and FNA in these settings. Aim: Review and develop specific EUS characteristics that help to differentiate benign from potentially malignant PCL. Methods: Over a 24 month period, 39 consecutive patients (M/F 22/17; mean age 60, range 18- 79 y.) with known or suspected PCL based on CT and/or transabdominal ultrasound underwent EUS. FNA of PCL was performed in 20 patients with analysis for cytology, CEA, CA 19-9, mucin and/or amylase. 55% of patients received prophylactic antibiotics. For comparison purposes, benign cysts (simple cyst: SC, pseudocyst: PC, serous cystadenoma: SCA) were discriminated from those with malignant potential (mucinous cystadenoma: MCA, intraductal papillary mucinous tumor: IPMT, cystic islet cell tumor: ISLT, cystic adenocarcinoma: ACA based on the following EUS criteria (size, wall thickness, septation, presence of mass/papillary growth, and communication with main pancreatic duct). Results: 15 patients underwent surgery allowing histopathology correlation (SCA: 1, SC: 1, PC: 1, chronic pancreatitis: 1, choledochocele: 1, MCA: 3, IPMT: 1, MCA with carcinoma: 2, ISLT: 3, ACA: 1). Based on EUS, 3 patients were classified as benign and 12 as suspicious for potential malignancy. In patients with histopathology correlation, EUS accurately predicted the potential for malignancy or not in 66% (10/15) of patients. PPV of EUS for detecting suspicious cysts was 75% (9/12). All 4 patients with islet cell tumor or ACA who underwent FNA were correctly classified with EUS alone. In 5 patients incorrectly classified by EUS, results of cytology and CEA fluid analysis did not correct this misinterpretation. 4 patients with suspicious EUS appearance and benign pathology had cystic fluid CEA levels >150. One patient with benign EUS appearance and MCA on pathology had cystic fluid CEA level
On Transient Thermal Stresses in Viscoelastic Materials With Temperature-Dependent Properties

Abstract : This paper deals with the quasi-static analysis of transient thermal stresses in the linear theory of homogeneous and isotropic viscoelastic solids with temperature-dependent physical characteristics. The underlying constitutive law rests on the temperature-time equivalence hypothesis according to which a uniform temperature change affects the viscoelastic response of the material through a corresponding uniform shift of the logarithmic time scale. If the temperature varies with time, the preceding hypothesis implies a dependence of the instantaneous stresses upon the entire temperature history. Following an exposition of the theoretical background, exact solutions are deduced to two specific problems. The first concerns the transient thermal stresses in a slab of infinite extent, generated by a temperature field that depends arbitrarily. (Author-PL).