cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of gamma rays on efficiency of gene transfer in DNA repair-proficient and -deficient cell lines.

Ionizing radiation induces a number of molecular changes in cells, including DNA damage, mutation, genetic recombination, gene amplification, and chromosomal rearrangement. The studies described here make use of the process of DNA- mediated gene transfer to examine the molecular effects of ionizing radiation. Two Chinese hamster ovary cell lines, the wild-type, AA8-4, and a DNA repair-deficient line, EM9-1, that is sensitive to ionizing radiation, were transfected with the recombinant DNA plasmid, pSV2-GPT, either in the absence or presence of high- molecular-weight carrier DNA. Following transfection, cell populations were irradiated with graded doses of137Cs γ- rays. Results demonstate that, on a per viable cell basis, ionizing radiation hinders the transfection of this plasmid when tested in the presence of carrier DNA. A similar dose response was seen for both the wild-type (AA8-4) and mutant (EM9-1) lines. However, in the absence of carrier DNA,137Cs γ- rays clearly enhanced the gene transfer process. An enhancement factor of 3–5 was seen for AA8-4 cells and 2–3 for EM9-1 cells. This enhancement occurred at relatively low doses (e.g., 50 cGy) and was not substantially elevated by larger doses.
Quantum-resolved stimulated desorption and dissociation processes of adsorbed molecules

The electronic excitations and subsequent dynamics responsible for the stimulated desorption and dissociation of adsorbed molecules on metal surfaces can be characterized in detail by examining the neutral gas-phase products in a quantum specific fashion. Specifically, we have studied the electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) of NO from clean and 0-covered Pt(lll), and the electron-stimulated dissociation of NO2 on clean Pt(lll) through state-selective, time-of-flight laser resonance ionization of the NO product. In these experiments, we can determine the nature of a given electronic excitation by determining the threshold for the stimulated process and correlating it with photoelectron spectra and calculated excitation lifetimes. By determining the translational, vibrational, and rotational energy distributions of the ESD or stimulated dissociation products, a dynamical picture emerges which can be directly correlated with the electronic excitation and the extent of charge-transfer screening from the substrate. The presence of co-adsorbates such as atomic 0 modify screening charge and thus directly affect both the lifetimes of excitations and the dynamics of the stimulated event.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Energy and angular distribution of deuterons from high-intensity laser–target interactions

The formation of a high-energy ion beam suitable for driving nuclear fusion reactions and producing MeV neutrons was investigated. The interaction of intense ultra short laser pulses with a double-layer thin foil for the production of MeV deuterons was studied theoretically and numerically simulated using a two-dimensional electromagnetic particle-in-cell model. The directionality and energy of the deuteron beam, specifically the conversion efficiency of laser energy into deuteron kinetic energy, and deuteron energy and angular distribution functions are studied as a function of peak laser intensity, laser pulse duration and target thickness. A range of parameters was determined for which a highly directional deuteron beam is generated.
Discovery and Optimization of a Novel Spiropyrrolidine Inhibitor of β-Secretase (BACE1) through Fragment-Based Drug Design

The aspartyl protease β-secretase, or BACE, has been demonstrated to be a key factor in the proteolytic formation of Aβ-peptide, a major component of plaques in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, and inhibition of this enzyme has emerged as a major strategy for pharmacologic intervention in AD. An X-ray-based fragment screen of Pfizer’s proprietary fragment collection has resulted in the identification of a novel BACE binder featuring spiropyrrolidine framework. Although exhibiting only weak inhibitory activity against the BACE enzyme, the small compound was verified by biophysical and NMR-based methods as a bona fide BACE inhibitor. Subsequent optimization of the lead compound, relying heavily on structure-based drug design and computational prediction of physiochemical properties, resulted in a nearly 1000-fold improvement in potency while maintaining ligand efficiency and properties predictive of good permeability and low P-gp liability.
Fate of trace organics in a wastewater effluent dependent stream

Abstract Trace organic compounds (TOrCs) in municipal wastewater effluents that are discharged to streams are of potential concern to ecosystem and human health. This study examined the fate of a suite of TOrCs and estrogenic activity in water and sediments in an effluent-dependent stream in Tucson, Arizona. Sampling campaigns were performed during 2011 to 2013 along the Lower Santa Cruz River, where TOrCs and estrogenic activity were measured in aqueous (surface) and solid (riverbed sediment) phases. Some TOrCs, including contributors to estrogenic activity, were rapidly attenuated with distance of travel in the river. Those TOrCs that are not sufficiently attenuated and percolate to ground water have in common low biodegradation probabilities and low octanol–water distribution ratios. Independent experiments showed that attenuation of estrogenic compounds may be due in part to indirect photolysis caused by formation of organic radicals from sunlight absorption. Hydrophobic TOrCs may accumulate in riverbed sediments during dry weather periods, but riverbed sediment quality is periodically affected through storm-related scouring during periods of heavy rainfall and runoff. Taken together, evidence suggests that natural processes can attenuate at least some TOrCs, reducing potential impacts to ecosystem and human health.
Observance of the Laws of Family Purity in Modern–Orthodox Judaism

This research is a follow-up to a previous study measuring the observance of the ritually unclean period (Niddah) among Modern–Orthodox Jews. A total of 267 participants completed an online questionnaire comprised of a list of 16 “strict” and “lenient” forbidden behaviors. Participants reported whether they had engaged in these behaviors during Week 1 (the actual menstrual period) and during Week 2 (the “clean days” following the cessation of bleeding). Results showed that laws were being violated, with more transgressions during the second week than the first week. Additionally, more “lenient” laws were being broken than “strict” ones. Level of religious observance was significantly negatively correlated to the number of transgressions. However, there was no significant correlation between the number of transgressions and the age at marriage, sex, or how long one had been married.
Studies on the Endocrine Pancreas of Amphibians and Reptiles

D. C. 20007 synopsis. At this time, it can be said that the available data obtained from amphibians and reptiles as regards the endocrine pancreas is consistent with the much more extensive data known for the metabolic effects of insulin and glucagon in mammals. There remain, however, many unexplored facets of the specific responses of the pancreas and the target tissues in lower animals.
Favorable discharge disposition and survival after successful endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Objective Endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rEVAR) has been shown to improve perioperative outcomes compared with open surgical repair (OSR). Follow-up of these patients, however, is lacking. In this study, we compare the discharge disposition and midterm survival of ruptured aneurysm patients who survived treatment with either rEVAR or OSR. Methods We performed an institutional review board-approved, single-institution, retrospective review of all patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) admitted from July 2007 to February 2012. Primary outcomes were discharge disposition and midterm survival (>30 days after the index operation). We also evaluated compliance with follow-up and prevalence of endoleak. Results A total of 118 patients were analyzed. Eight patients received only comfort care, 10 died in the operating room, 39 underwent OSR, and 61 had rEVAR. Average age and sex were similar (OSR, 77 ± 7.8 years, 85% male; rEVAR, 74 ± 7.4 years, 79% male). Seventy-two survived to discharge (54% OSR [21/39]; 84% rEVAR [51/61]; P = .001). OSR patients had longer lengths of intensive care unit and total length of stay than rEVAR (11.8 ± 10.4/23 ± 16.4 days vs 6.3 ± 8.5/12.3 ± 13.0 days; P = .002/.02). Only 19% (4/21) of patients were discharged home after OSR, rather than to a skilled nursing facility. Significantly more rEVAR patients were discharged to home rather than a skilled nursing facility (65%; 33/51) ( P = .0004). Overall, the follow-up rate for determination of survival for patients who lived past 30 days was 86% (56/65; median, 14 months; 25th-75th interquartile, 3.1-27.8). Multivariable logistic regression revealed only the type of procedure performed and perioperative hypotension predicted discharge destination. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significant midterm survival benefit for patients after rEVAR compared with OSR ( P = .01, log-rank). Subgroup analysis of survivors past 30 days revealed similar rates of midterm survival ( P = .7, log-rank). Overall, midterm relative risk reduction for death after rEVAR vs OSR was 35% (95% confidence interval, 0.06-0.59). Conclusions We have previously demonstrated that successful utilization of rEVAR improves the early survival of rAAA patients compared with OSR. This study shows that more patients are able to be discharged to home after rEVAR and that the early survival advantage is continued in midterm follow-up, suggesting that rEVAR should be attempted first when feasible. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term durability of endovascular repair in the management of rAAA as well as the impact on cost and long-term quality of life.
Binding of 3H-gossypol in organelles of cultured bovine luteal cells.

Abstract Gossypol is an antifertility agent which inhibits steroidogenesis in both sexes. The present study investigated the binding of gossypol in organelles of cultured bovine luteal cell to elucidate its inhibitory site of action in steroid biosynthesis. Cultured bovine luteal cells were incubated with 3H-gossypol (4.3 or 2.15 μM) for 3 hours. At the end of treatment, cultured bovine luteal cells were harvested, homogenized and centrifuged for organelle preparation. The radioactivity of gossypol was measured in each subcellular fraction. The cell membrane fraction has the highest binding capacity for gossypol, and the majority of gossypol was located in the particulate fractions. Results of the present study provide information in understanding the regulatory mechanism of gossypol on antisteroidogenic and/or toxic effects in cultured bovine luteal cells.
Application of a hollow-fiber, tangential-flow device for sampling suspended bacteria and particles from natural waters.

Conception et utilisation de l'appareillage pour concentrer des bacteries et des particules en suspensions a partir de grands volumes d'echantillons d'eau de surface et souterraine, de l'ordre de la centaine de litre
Gas sampling from fluidized beds: A novel probe system

Abstract A system to sample gas from bubbles in a fluidized bed was designed, built and tested. It consisted of a dual-stem static-pressure probe (DSPP) to detect a rising bubble and a gas-sampling probe situated a small distance above the DSPP, together with a computer and hardware to interface the two probes. The DSPP was shown to provide reliable information on rising bubbles so that sampling criteria could be implemented. Tests in a gas—liquid column and in a small fluidized bed confirmed satisfactory gas sampling. The system can be adapted to operate in hot beds and is viewed as an important research tool and as a future process control device.
Electron dynamics in H−/Na/Cu(1 1 1) collisions

Abstract Surface adsorbates induce strong local perturbations in the electronic structure and potentials in their surroundings. Consequently, charge transfer processes between projectiles and adsorbate-covered surfaces are strongly affected. The theoretical calculations and experiment measurements reported herein are focused on the H−/Na/Cu(1 1 1) system. The electron dynamics at the Na/Cu(1 1 1) surface and the influence of Na adsorbates on the H−–Cu(1 1 1) charge transfer are treated and discussed in detail. The ion fractions are mainly influenced by the ion exit trajectories. At low Na coverage, they exhibit a maximum near the 60° exit angle from surface. The calculations and experimental data are in good agreement.
Determination of recombination mechanisms in organic solar cells

Studies of the recombination mechanisms in bulk heterojunction solar cells are reported. DC and transient photoconductivity are used to measure the carrier mobility and recombination times and also to show that geminate recombination is not significant in P3HT/PCBM and PCDTBT/PCBM cells. Light intensity measurements indicate that recombination is mostly monomolecular up to 1-sun light intensity. We conclude that the recombination at interface states within the bulk heterojunction structure is the dominant recombination mechanism.
Combined high-performance liquid chromatographic-radioimmunoassay method for the analysis of endorphins, enkephalins and other neurotransmitter peptides.

Abstract Assays for β-endorphin (BE) and its precursor such as β-lipotropin (LPH) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), plasma and some tissues have been difficult because of their low concentrations in limited sample volumes, the non-specificity of most antisera. These problems are compounded by the lack of suitable separation methods. Similar problems exist for the enkephalins, tachykinins and dynorphins, among others. This study reports a high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation method in which BE and LPH are well separated from each other and which also separates other neuropeptides of interest. The method uses volatile solvents which do not interfere with radioimmunoassay (RIA). Thus by combining HPLC with RIA the method offers, for the first time, a specific assay method for the endorphin, enkephalin and dynorphin families of peptides which does not suffer from the uncertainties in RIA due to cross-reactivities of antisera. Peptide concentrations obtained from the CSF of a small group of chronic pain patients are also presented.
What is a Theory of Consciousness a Theory of?—The Search for Criterial Constraints on Theory:

When are psychologists entitled to call a certain theoretical construct “consciousness?” Until the past few years most cognitive psychologists avoided dealing with conscious experience, in part because of a widespread view that there are no reliable empirical constraints to provide a foundation for theory. Today there is an increasing willingness to address the question. But how do we find the relevant empirical constraints? This article maintains that we only need to specify the minimal conditions of occurrence and nonoccurrence of a conscious experience, as expressed in a reliable way by subjects. One can do this by contrastively analyzing closely matched pairs of psychological events which seem to differ only in respect to the fact that one member of the pair is conscious, while the other is not. The article discusses five sets of such phenomena, and suggests some general properties that characterize them. Much of the empirical evidence needed for a theory of consciousness already exists today–only the...
Retrospective Analysis of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices among Four Hispanic Subgroups in New York's EFNEP

Abstract This research was carried out to describe exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practices and their correlates among four Hispanic subgroups of women living in New York State. Hispanic women (n = 136) enrolled in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) were asked about their infant feeding practices at birth and sociodemographic characteristics. Specifically, Puerto Rican (n = 59), South American (n = 23), Central American (n = 15), and Dominican (n = 39) women were studied. Chi-square, logistic regression, and pattern analyses were used to identify EBF correlates. Overall, 40% of the Hispanic infants surveyed were EBF. The difference in EBF incidence among subgroups was significant (p = .002): Puerto Rican, 27.6%; South American, 69.6%; Central American, 60.0%; and Dominican, 33.3%. South American women were 4.072 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.100-15.071) times more likely than Puerto Rican women to EBF. Hispanic women who were not born in the mainland U.S. were 5.833 (95% CI: 1.043–32.619) times more likely to EBF than women born on the mainland U.S. These data indicate that there are differences in EBF and its correlates among Hispanic subgroups. Results suggest the need for (1) larger studies examining EBF among Hispanic subgroups and (2) subgroup-specific intervention strategies to more effectively promote and support breastfeeding in the diverse Hispanic population.
Convergences in the modular and areal organization of the forebrain of mammals: implications for the reconstruction of forebrain evolution.

Early efforts to reconstruct the course of the evolution of the human brain relied on comparing the brains of a few related mammals with brains at successively higher levels of complexity. This Clark or ladder of levels approach is now seen as having limited usefulness in that species are not easily assigned to levels, and extant mammals are now recognized as mosaics of primitive and derived features. In addition, direction of change does not necessarily proceed from simple to complex, small to large, or diffuse to differentiated. A modern cladistic approach reconstructs the brains of ancestors by identifying brain characters within and across phylogenetic groups (clades), and uses parsimony or likelihood to infer direction of change and distinguish ancestral features from independently evolved convergences. Unfortunately, an idealized cladistic approach is often difficult to realize because characters may be hard to identify and validate, key species may be unavailable for study, and broadly based comparative studies can be costly, poorly funded, and labor intensive. Thus, many investigators pursue a truncated approach that is superficially Clark-like but conceptually cladistic. A truncated approach that relies on the extensive study of a few species may compensate for weaknesses by including niche-matched species that offer the opportunity to estimate the likelihood of similar brain features evolving as convergent adaptations. Because inferences about the brains of the primate ancestor are often made from the brains of tree shrews, we compare the brains of squirrel-like tree shrews with the brains of diurnal squirrels, and suggest that many of the primate-like features of the visual system of tree shrews arose independently of those in primates.
Assessment of the impact of sildenafil citrate on lower urinary tract symptoms in men with erectile dysfunction.

ABSTRACT Introduction Sildenafil citrate is an effective and well‐tolerated oral erectogenic medication. Through phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibition, it induces relaxation in penile smooth muscle, resulting in erection. Due to its mild affinity for other PDE enzymes, it may cause smooth muscle relaxation in a number of other organs. Recent data suggest an association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Anecdotally some patients cite improvement in LUTS while using sildenafil. Aim This study was conducted to assess the impact of Viagra on LUTS, using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire. Main Outcome Measure International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and IPSS inventories. Methods Men presenting to a sexual dysfunction clinic who were candidates and opted for treatment with sildenafil completed the IIEF and IPSS. Men with the IPSS scores greater than 10 were enrolled and completed the IPSS and IIEF questionnaires at least 3 months after the commencement of sildenafil. Comparisons were made between pre‐ and posttreatment scores in the IPSS and erectile function (EF) domain of the IIEF. Results Forty‐eight men were enrolled, with a mean age of 62 ± 11 years. The mean improvement in the EF domain score was 7 points ( P = 0.01). The mean improvement in the IPSS score was 4.6 points ( P = 0.013) and in quality of life (QOL) score was 1.4 points ( P = 0.025). In total, 60% of men improved their IPSS score, and 35% had at least a 4‐point improvement in their score. The mean number of uses of sildenafil per week was 2.0 ± 0.6. No significant correlation was seen between the degree of the IPSS improvement and baseline IPSS, baseline EF domain score, or magnitude of improvement in EF domain score. Conclusions These data indicate a positive impact of Viagra on men with mild to moderate LUTS. It is presumed, although unproven, that the medication's effect is mediated through bladder neck/prostatic smooth muscle relaxation. Mulhall JP, Guhring P, Parker M, and Hopps C. Assessment of the impact of sildenafil citrate on lower urinary tract symptoms in men with erectile dysfunction. J Sex Med 2006;3:662–667.
Hyperoxia enhances lung and liver nuclear superoxide generation.

Abstract Porcine lung and liver nuclei generated superoxide (O2−) at a rate which increased with increasing oxygen concentration. NADH-dependent O2− generation increased from 0 to 2.21 ± 0.11 nmol/min per mg protein for lung nuclei and from 0.16±0.09 to 1.34±0.14 nmol/min per mg protein for liver nuclei, when oxygen concentration increased from 0 to 100%. NADPH-dependent O2− generation increased similarly in liver nuclei (from 0.20±0.09 to 1.20±0.12 nmol/min per mg protein), while lung nuclei produced only 0.45±0.09 nmol/min per mg protein at 100% oxygen. NADH and NADPH had an additive effect on O2− generation by liver nuclei, yielding 2.58±0.21 nmol/min per mg protein at 100% oxygen. Very little or no superoxide dismutase activity was present in washed nuclear preparations. The oxygen-dependence of nuclear O2− generation shows that nuclear-derived partially reduced species of oxygen may affect nuclear function during hyperoxia or other metabolic situations where overproduction of oxygen radicals is problematic.
A Model for Aquatic Invertebrate Response to Kissimmee River Restoration

When the Kissimmee River was channelized in the 1960s and 1970s and placed under stage-fluctuation management, the dynamic interactions between the river and the floodplain were essentially removed. Correspondingly, aquatic invertebrate life in the river and floodplain ecosystem shifted from a riverine to a more lacustrine fauna. A relink-age of the Kissimmee River with the floodplain following restoration will result in numerous changes to such ecologically important factors as streamflow, substrate composition, food quality and quantity, and water quality, all of which will influence invertebrate communities. These factors and their function in the ecosystem as the fauna shifts from predominantly lacustrine back to riverine are presented in a conceptual model. As an integral component of all aquatic ecosystems and a key link between primary producers and higher trophic levels, aquatic invertebrates are a valuable group with which to evaluate the recovery of the Kissimmee River. Utilization of a geographic information system mapping approach linking expected increased habitat heterogeneity and invertebrate richness with restoration efforts is suggested as an economical means of monitoring recovery of the Kissimmee River ecosystem.
A RESEARCH NOTE THE EFFECTS OF PRERIGOR SODIUM BICARBONATE PERFUSION ON THE QUALITY OF PORCINE M. SEMIMEMBRANOSUS

The effect of prerigor sodium bicarbonate (SBC) perfusion on the quality of porcine semimembranosus muscle was tested in 8 pigs, heterozygous for the halothane gene. Perfusion via the iliac artery was initiated at 15 min postmortem. For each carcass, one side was perfused with 4 L of 0.75 M SBC and one side with 0.7% saline. None of the sampled muscles was. PSE quality. SBC treatment resulted in a doubling of the muscle sodium content, indicating that about 5% of the perfused SBC was absorbed. Although the ultimate pH of SBC samples was higher (P<0.05) than the pH of controls, the difference was smaller than expected. L*-value and drip losses were lowered (P<0.05) by SBC treatment. These results suggest that it may be possible to reduce PSE by prerigor application of SBC. Further studies on optimum delivery (perfusion versus infusion) and SBC concentration are needed.
Catastrophe in the Making: The Engineering of Katrina and the Disasters of Tomorrow

When houses are flattened, towns submerged, and people stranded without electricity or even food, we attribute the suffering to 'natural disasters' or 'acts of God'. But what if they're neither? What if we, as a society, are bringing these catastrophes on ourselves? That's the provocative theory of "Catastrophe in the Making", the first book to recognize Hurricane Katrina not as a 'perfect storm', but a tragedy of our own making - and one that could become commonplace. The authors, one a longtime New Orleans resident, argue that breached levees and sloppy emergency response are just the most obvious examples of government failure. The true problem is more deeply rooted and insidious, and stretches far beyond the Gulf Coast. Based on the false promise of widespread prosperity, communities across the U.S. have embraced all brands of 'economic development' at all costs. In Louisiana, that meant development interests turning wetlands into shipping lanes. By replacing a natural buffer against storm surges with a 75-mile long, obsolete canal that cost hundreds of millions of dollars, they guided the hurricane into the heart of New Orleans and adjacent communities. The authors reveal why, despite their geographic differences, California and Missouri are building - quite literally - toward similar destruction. Too often, the U.S. 'growth machine' generates wealth for a few and misery for many. Drawing lessons from the most expensive 'natural' disaster in American history, "Catastrophe in the Making" shows why thoughtless development comes at a price we can ill afford.
Laryngospasm: An Atypical Manifestation of Severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Objectives: To present a potentially life-threatening manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngospasm. This review covers the diagnosis and management of eight patients treated by the authors. Study Design: A retrospective analysis of 8 consecutive patients who were referred for the evaluation of unexplained laryngospasm. The medical therapy and lifestyle modifications of treatment are discussed. Methods: The patient records were reviewed and tabulated for age, onset of symptoms, and history of GERD; the presence of an associated upper respiratory infection with persistent cough; and the development of syncope in the presence of laryngospasm. Results: All 8 patients had initial control of laryngospasm. Three had complete control without relapse, 3 had initial control with rare relapse of mild laryngospasm, and 2 patients had initial control with frequent relapses. Six of the 8 had syncopal episodes as a consequence of the laryngospasm. All patients were initially treated with a proton pump inhibitor. Five of the 8 required the addition of an esophageal prokinetic agent to control the reflux and subsequent laryngospasm. Two patients are off all medications at the time of this writing and 4 of the 8 have had rare relapses after initial control of symptoms. Once control of the laryngospasm had been achieved, there were no subsequent episodes of syncope. Conclusions: Based on the data collected in these 8 individuals, patients with reflux disease (known or unknown) can develop severe laryngospasm and possible syncope. The key factor seems to be the association of a recent or concurrent upper respiratory infection that results in a protracted cough that is more severe when supine and at times violent. The cough increases the amount of the refluxate, which is the noxious insult to the larynx.
Iris Murdoch’s Ethics: A Consideration of her Romantic Vision

By Megan Laverty Continuum, 2007. Pp. xii + 134. ISBN 0–8264–8535–9. £60.00/$140.00 (hbk). Iris Murdoch’s moral philosophy has finally begun to receive critical attention commensurate with its impo...
The use of the supero-inferior femoral neck diameter as a sex assessor

The present study examines the sexing potential of the minimum supero-inferior femoral neck diameter in Caucasians and African-Americans who lived at the turn of the century. A Student's t-test and an ANOVA indicate that population differences in neck morphology exist, albeit the strength of the test is fairly weak (P = 0.015). Predictive models were developed using a linear discriminant function analysis for the African-American sample, the Caucasian sample, and the combined African-American and Caucasian (AAC) sample. Jackknifed classification matrices produced classification success rates ranging from 87 to 92%. Each of the three discriminant functions were evaluated using an independent, random holdout sample. Although a smaller holdout sample usually better approximates the true error involved in an application, this was clearly not the case in this study. For African-Americans, 28 of 28 individuals were correctly classified, for Caucasians 24 of 25, and for the combined AAC sample 53 of 53 individuals were sexed correctly. It is more likely that the true accuracy of the model for the population approximates 90%. This accuracy combined with the high rate of preservation of the femoral neck makes this measurement useful in extremely fragmentary samples.
Flashcard: Alternating between Visible and Invisible Identities

This article addresses how my experiences as a black deaf female viscerally and simultaneously shape me. I use the metaphor of flashcards. Flipping over flashcards or “flashing” depicts how certain contexts incite and/or promote the visibility or invisibility of identities, particularly between the familial and educational contexts. Also, I utilize moments from my childhood to narrate alternating reflections of lived experiences (visible) and the theoretical constructs (invisible) that inform and shape these experiences.
MOSFET-only switched-capacitor circuits in digital CMOS technology

Design techniques are described for the realization of precision high linearity switched-capacitor (SC) stages constructed entirely from MOS transistors. The proposed circuits use the gate-to-channel capacitance of MOSFET's for realizing all capacitors. As a result, they can be fabricated in any inexpensive basic digital CMOS technology, and the chip area occupied by the capacitors can be reduced. A number of different SC stages have been designed and fabricated using the proposed techniques. These included SC amplifiers, gain/loss stages, and data converters. Both the simulations and the experimental results obtained indicate that very high linearity (comparable to that achieved using analog fabrication processes with two poly-Si layers) can be achieved in these circuits using basic CMOS technology.
The Effect of Decalcification and Choice of Fixative on Histiocytic Iron in Bone Marrow Core Biopsies

Iron stains are often used for bone marrow core biopsies obtained by needle biopsy of the iliac crest. Because bone most be decalcified by brief treatment with acid, it is possible that an undetermined amount of stainable histiocytic iron may be lost. A study was carried out to determine whether decalcification results in loss of histiocytic iron and the effects of fixatives and the recovery of histiocytic iron in decalcified bone marrow tissue. Aspirates of bone marrow were stained for iron with Prussian blue. Because aspirate material does not require decalcification, it served as a control for the study. One hundred bone marrow biopsies and accompanying aspirates from 100 adult subjects were evaluated. Fifty bone marrow biopsies were fixed using a fixative containing mercuric chloride (B-5) and the remaining 50 were fixed in zinc-formalin. Histiocytic iron was graded as minimal, moderate or marked depending on whether less than 5, 6–10, or more than 10 iron positive histiocytes, respectively, were obse...
Wavelet-based feature extraction using probabilistic finite state automata for pattern classification

Real-time data-driven pattern classification requires extraction of relevant features from the observed time series as low-dimensional and yet information-rich representations of the underlying dynamics. These low-dimensional features facilitate in situ decision-making in diverse applications, such as computer vision, structural health monitoring, and robotics. Wavelet transforms of time series have been widely used for feature extraction owing to their time-frequency localization properties. In this regard, this paper presents a symbolic dynamics-based method to model surface images, generated by wavelet coefficients in the scale-shift space. These symbolic dynamics-based models (e.g., probabilistic finite state automata (PFSA)) capture the relevant information, embedded in the sensor data, from the associated Perron-Frobenius operators (i.e., the state-transition probability matrices). The proposed method of pattern classification has been experimentally validated on laboratory apparatuses for two different applications: (i) early detection of evolving damage in polycrystalline alloy structures, and (ii) classification of mobile robots and their motion profiles.
Asynchronous leader election and MIS using abstract MAC layer

We study leader election (LE) and computation of a maximal independent set (MIS) in wireless ad-hoc networks. We use the abstract MAC layer proposed in [14] to divorce the algorithmic complexity of solving these problems from the low-level issues of contention and collisions. We demonstrate the advantages of such a MAC layer by presenting simple asynchronous deterministic algorithms to solve LE and MIS and proving their correctness. First, we present an LE algorithm for static single-hop networks in which each process sends no more than three messages to its neighbors in the system. Next, we present an algorithm to compute an MIS in a static multi-hop network in which each process sends a constant number of messages to each of its neighbors in the communication graph.
Aggregates Unseen: Imagining Post-Katrina New Orleans

Photography, understood as a technology for amplifying imagination, affords a useful tool for coming to terms with the massive forced migration caused by the Katrina catastrophe. Specifically, photographic projects by Robert Polidori and Richard Misrach reveal the exigencies of communicating in the wake of the disaster.
Targeting Fatty Acid Biosynthesis for the Development of Novel Chemotherapeutics against Mycobacterium tuberculosis: Evaluation of A-Ring-Modified Diphenyl Ethers as High-Affinity InhA Inhibitors

Structure-based design was used to develop a focused library of A-ring-modified diphenyl ether InhA inhibitors. From this library of analogs, two high-affinity alkyl-substituted diphenyl ethers, 6PP and 8PP, were selected for advanced study into their in vitro activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates, their in vivo properties, and their signature response mode of action. 6PP and 8PP demonstrated enhanced activity against whole bacteria and showed activity in a rapid macrophage model of infection. In addition, transcriptional profiling revealed that the A-ring modifications of 6PP and 8PP increased the specificity of each analog for InhA. Both analogs had substantially longer half-lives in serum than did the parent compound, exhibited a fivefold reduction in cytotoxicity compared to the parent compound, and were well tolerated when administered orally at 300 mg/kg of body weight in animal models. Thus, the A-ring modifications increased the affinity and whole-cell specificity of the compounds for InhA and increased their bioavailability. The next step in optimization of the pharmacophore for preclinical evaluation is modification of the B ring to increase the bioavailability to that required for oral delivery.
Synthesis of double-input DC-DC converters using a single-pole triple-throw switch as a building block

Hybridizing power electronic systems using an energy storage unit has gained popularity in transportation and power system applications. This task has traditionally been performed by using several independent power electronic converters. Multi-input converters, due to their reduced part count and improved efficiency, seem to be an advantageous option to replace the conventional converters. A few multi-input converter topologies have been reported in the literature; however, there is not a systematic approach to derive them. Furthermore, all possible topologies are not completely explored and it is difficult to derive new converters from the existing topologies. Hence, in this paper, a systematic approach to derive multi-input converters by using single-pole triple-throw switches as building blocks is presented.
Grain boundary Diffusion of Ni through Pd 2 Si

Interdiffusion in the Si /Pd2Si/Ni and Si /Pd2Si/Ni thin film systems has been investigated using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. Nickel is found to diffuse along the grain boundaries of polycrystalline Pd2Si upon which it accumulates at the Si Pd2Si interface. The high mobility of Ni compared to that of si suggests that Pd diffuses faster than Si along the Pd2Si grain boundaries. An activation energy of 1.2 eV is determined for Ni grain boundary diffusion in Pd2Si.
Improving risk stratification in patients with chest pain: the Erlanger HEARTS3 score.

Abstract Background The HEART score uses elements from patient H istory, E lectrocardiogram, A ge, R isk Factors, and T roponin to obtain a risk score on a 0- to 10-point scale for predicting acute coronary syndromes (ACS). This investigation seeks to improve on the HEART score by proposing the HEARTS 3 score, which uses likelihood ratio analysis to give appropriate weight to the individual elements of the HEART score as well as incorporating 3 additional "S" variables: S ex, S erial 2-hour electrocardiogram, and S erial 2-hour delta troponin during the initial emergency department valuation. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively acquired database consisting of 2148 consecutive patients with non–ST-segment elevation chest pain. Interval analysis of likelihood ratios was performed to determine appropriate weighting of the individual elements of the HEART 3 score. Primary outcomes were 30-day ACS and myocardial infarction. Results There were 315 patients with 30-day ACS and 1833 patients without ACS. Likelihood ratio analysis revealed significant discrepancies in weight of the 5 individual elements shared by the HEART and HEARTS 3 score. The HEARTS 3 score outperformed the HEART score as determined by comparison of areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for myocardial infarction (0.958 vs 0.825; 95% confidence interval difference in areas, 0.105-0.161) and for 30-day ACS (0.901 vs 0.813; 95% confidence interval difference in areas, 0.064-0.110). Conclusion The HEARTS 3 score reliably risk stratifies patients with chest pain for 30-day ACS. Prospective studies need to be performed to determine if implementation of this score as a decision support tool can guide treatment and disposition decisions in the management of patients with chest pain.
Fire protection of critical circuits-a life and property preserver

This paper examines the importance of fire-resistant electrical circuit feeders in saving lives and property. It discusses sophisticated fire fighting and evacuation systems and the electrical energy requirements to ensure their operation in commercial high-rise, hospital and other at-risk buildings. The influence of cost, ease of installation and subsequent inspection of fire-resistant circuits in a consulting engineer's specifications decision is considered. Analysis of the impact of building code modifications that require increased fire protection for feeders to emergency systems is presented. The paper cites examples of devastating fires and resultant code upgrades. Implications of the 1996 National Electrical Code (NEC) sections concerning emergency electrical feeders are reviewed. Specification writers and product installers have primary influence over these systems. Their roles and responsibilities are discussed. The paper also reviews the various methods of providing fire-resistive protection to circuit feeders.
The N 5/3 Law for Bosons

Non-relativistic negative bosons interacting with infinite mass positive particles via Coulomb forces are shown to be unstable in the sense that E 0 ⩽ — CN 5/3. This agrees with the previously known lower bound E 0 ≥ - AN 5/3.
Optimization of Discontinuous Reception (DRX) for Mobile Internet Applications over LTE

Discontinuous reception (DRX) brings power saving at user equipment (UE) at the cost of increased delay in 3GPP long term evolution (LTE) network. While configuring DRX parameters, a tradeoff between power saving and delay is inevitable in practice. For example, delay is crucial factor for delay sensitive applications such as online gaming, while power saving becomes the main concern for social networking applications. In this paper, we propose an algorithm to efficiently select DRX parameters to ensure a balanced tradeoff between these two conflicting performance parameters depending on application's delay requirement and UE power constraint. The proposed scheme is capable of optimizing one of these performance parameters while satisfying a specified level of guarantee for the other. Simulation results show that proposed algorithm is able to increase the power saving significantly by efficiently selecting the DRX parameters. For example, smart selection of DRX cycle for given inactivity timer increases the power saving by more than 40% depending on the delay requirement. Simulation results further show that proposed algorithm provides higher flexibility in DRX parameter selection by allowing a DRX parameter to be relaxed with the adjustment in other DRX parameter without any performance degradation.
Role of innate immunity in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity

Acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity is currently the single most important cause of acute liver failure in the US, and is associated with a significant number of deaths. The toxic response to APAP is triggered by a highly reactive metabolite N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone-imine. Following the hepatocellular initiation events, such as glutathione depletion and covalent binding, intracellular stress simultaneously activates signal transduction and transcription factor pathways that are protective or toxic (directly or through sensitisation). Subsequently, pro- and anti-inflammatory cascades of the innate immune system are simultaneously activated, the balance of which plays a major role in determining the progression and severity of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. The threshold and susceptibility to APAP hepatotoxicity is determined by the interplay of injury promoting and inhibiting events downstream of the initial production of toxic metabolite. The environmental and genetic control of these intracellular and intercellular responses to toxic metabolites may be of critical importance in determining susceptibility to APAP hepatotoxicity and presumably idiosyncratic drug hepatotoxicity.
Necrotic Cell Death in C. elegans Requires the Function of Calreticulin and Regulators of Ca2+ Release from the Endoplasmic Reticulum

Abstract In C. elegans , a hyperactivated MEC-4(d) ion channel induces necrotic-like neuronal death that is distinct from apoptosis. We report that null mutations in calreticulin suppress both mec-4(d)- induced cell death and the necrotic cell death induced by expression of a constitutively activated Gα S subunit. RNAi-mediated knockdown of calnexin, mutations in the ER Ca 2+ release channels unc-68 (ryanodine receptor) or itr-1 (inositol 1,4,5 triphosphate receptor), and pharmacological manipulations that block ER Ca 2+ release also suppress death. Conversely, thapsigargin-induced ER Ca 2+ release can restore mec-4(d) -induced cell death when calreticulin is absent. We conclude that high [Ca 2+ ] i is a requirement for necrosis in C. elegans and suggest that an essential step in the death mechanism is release of ER-based Ca 2+ stores. ER-driven Ca 2+ release has previously been implicated in mammalian necrosis, suggesting necrotic death mechanisms may be conserved.
A Review of the Effects of Nicotine on Schizophrenia and Antipsychotic Medications

OBJECTIVE: Research on the impact of nicotine on schizophrenia and antipsychotic medications was reviewed to determine ways to improve treatment planning for patients with schizophrenia who smoke and to evaluate smoking cessation programs for this population. METHODS: All major research databases were searched. The review focuses on reports published since 1990. RESULTS: Smoking improves processing of auditory stimuli (sensory gating) by patients with schizophrenia and may lessen negative symptoms by increasing dopamine in the nucleus accumbens and the prefrontal and frontal cortex. Use of traditional antipsychotics may result in patients' smoking more, whereas patients taking atypical antipsychotics may smoke less. Patients who smoke metabolize antipsychotics faster than nonsmoking patients. Smoking cessation programs for outpatients with schizophrenia report a success rate of about 12 percent after six months. No studies of cessation programs for chronically ill inpatients with schizophrenia have been p...
Crop and Non-Crop Plants as Potential Reservoir Hosts of Alfalfa mosaic virus and Cucumber mosaic virus for Spread to Commercial Snap Bean.

Mueller, E. E., Groves, R. L., and Gratton, C. 2012. Crop and non-crop plants as potential reservoir hosts of Alfalfa mosaic virus and Cucumber mosaic virus for spread to commercial snap bean. Plant Dis. 96:506-514. Diseases caused by aphid-transmitted viruses such as Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) and Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) have increased in snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in the Midwestern United States. Plants immediately surrounding agricultural fields may serve as primary virus inocula for aphids to acquire and transmit to bean crops. The project objectives were to (i) identify potentially important AMV and CMV reservoirs among naturally infected plants and (ii) determine the relationship between the virus inoculum potential (VIP) in adjacent crop field margins and virus incidence in P. vulgaris. From 2006 to 2008, surveys were conducted to quantify the virus incidence and percentage cover (2008 only) of plants present within 5 m of the P. vulgaris crop. In all, 4,350 individual plants representing 44 species were assayed, with overall AMV and CMV incidences averaging 12 and 1.5%, respectively. A VIP index was developed and used to rank the importance of virus-susceptible plants in adjacent field margins. The overall VIP index for AMV in field margins was weakly associated with AMV incidence in P. vulgaris and no relationship was observed between local CMV inoculum and P. vulgaris incidence, suggesting that factors additional to local inoculum sources may influence CMV epidemics in P. vulgaris.