cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ovarian control for assisted reproduction in the domestic cat and wild felids

Of the 37 felid species, all but the domestic cat are classified as threatened with extinction in all or part of their native range. Additionally, the domestic cat is a valuable model for human biomedical research. Propagating some wild felids as well as domestic cat populations serving as human models is a major challenge primarily due to difficulties in transporting animals between facilities to ensure the pairing of genetically matched individuals, behavioral incompatibility between pairs and low fertility. Artificial insemination (AI) and in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF/ET) are powerful tools for helping manage rare populations. Developing successful assisted reproductive techniques requires knowledge of the female reproductive cycle and precise control of ovarian activity. Successful ovarian stimulation for AI and IVF/ET has been achieved in at least one-third of all cat species. However, sensitivity to a given gonadotropin treatment appears highly species-specific, and poor responses are common, particularly in felid species that exhibit spontaneous ovulations. Furthermore, current gonadotropin regimens have been demonstrated to perturb female reproductive function often leading to reduced fertility. Overall, ovarian response to exogenous hormonal stimulation has been highly variable, and pregnancy success after AI or IVF/ET remains low (<20%) in most species. Therefore, there is an immediate need to develop improved regimens that would allow more predictable ovarian responses in felids. We contend that recent research involving the use of progestins to control the ovary prior to gonadotropin stimulation shows promise for providing consistent ovarian stimulation in felids.
Surgical treatment of supraventricular tachycardia in infants and children.

Abstract The technique, indications and results of surgical division of accessory atrioventricular connections in 10 infants and children with drug-resistant Supraventricular tachycardia are described. The patients ranged in age from 6 months to 15 years. Four patients had associated congenital heart disease. Division of accessory connections were performed on free wall pathways in nine patients (seven right atrial, two left atrial) and on a septal pathway in one patient. Four patients had both anterograde and retrograde conduction over the accessory connection (manifest Wolff-Parkinson-White conduction) whereas six had only retrograde conduction (concealed Wolff-Parkinson-White conduction). The manifest Wolff-Parkinson-White conduction was abolished by surgical division in all four patients. In 8 of the 10 patients the procedure stopped the attacks of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia for follow-up periods ranging from 9 months to 3 1 2 years; no patient receives medication to date.
Abstract LB-71: Stage Ia vs. Ib endometrial stromal sarcoma: Does the new staging system predict survival

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Background : In 2008, a new FIGO staging system was specifically designed and approved for endometrial stromal sarcoma. Our objective was to determine the impact of this new staging system on survival in patients with stage I endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS). Methods : Data were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database between 1988 and 2005. Kaplan-Meier log rank and Cox proportional hazards models were used for survival analysis and to identify possible predictors for survival. Results : The identified cohort included 464 women, with 310 (67%) low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (LGESS), 96 (21%) high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (HGESS), and 58 (12%) unclassified ESS. LGESS compared to HGESS differed significantly with regards to the patient age (48 vs. 60 years, p<0.001), tumor size (5.6 cm vs. 8.0 cm, p<0.001), cervical involvement (5.2% vs. 18.8%, p<0.001), myometrial invasion (62% vs. 66.6%, p=0.01), and stage IB disease (44% vs. 76%, p<0.001). Similarly, compared with LGESS, a greater percentage of HGESS patients underwent lymphadenectomy (29.0% vs. 60.4%; P <0.001), salpingo-oophorectomy (78.4% vs. 93.7%, p=0.001), and administration of radiotherapy (14.8% vs 50.0%; P<0.001). There was no significant difference between stages IA and IB with regards to the above-mentioned demographic and clinico-pathologic variables, in both LGESS and HGESS. The 5-year overall survival was worse in HGESS than LGESS (45.4% vs. 97.2%, p<0.001). The difference in 5-year overall survival between stages IA and IB was significant in LGESS (100% vs. 93.5%, p=0.003), but not in HGESS (51.4% vs. 43.5%, p=0.2). Although age (p=0.001), race (p= 0.005), stage (p=0.004) were all significant prognostic factors in LGESS, only cervical involvement (p=0.02) was a significant predictor in HGESS. Conclusion: The new staging system is appropriate for risk stratification in LGESS. The prognosis in HGESS seems to be most influenced by the presence of cervical involvement and not by tumor size as the staging criteria would suggest. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-71.
Analysis of the key technology of smart distribution park

Due to the increase new boundary conditions of the distributed generation, distributed storage, diversity of load and user demand side response in smart distribution park, the traditional park planning method, integrated technology and operation control technology is no longer to adapt to the new requirements. According to analysis the implementation key technology of smart distribution park, give recommendations construction for the smart distribution park: put forward a new smart distribution park planning method, including park distribution network planning method and distributed energy storage planning method; introduced equipment and equipment integration, equipment and system integration, system and system integration from the function and the integrated way angle; In the light of the distributed generation and distributed storage access with systems and equipment integration in park, discusses the operation control technology and comprehensive energy management technology in the park.
Restrictions on the structure of subgroup lattices of finite alternating and symmetric groups

Let G be a finite alternating or symmetric group. We describe an infinite class of finite lattices, none of which is isomorphic to any interval [H,G] in the subgroup lattice of G.
The late Miocene to early Pliocene climate transition in the Southern Ocean

Abstract We have constructed a relatively high resolution (5–10 kyr) Globigerina bulloides stable isotope record from Ocean Drilling Program Site 1088 (South Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean). Together with the two published records from the high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere that each span at least a portion of this interval of time, we begin to assemble a spatial picture of sea surface hydrography during the late Miocene early Pliocene climate transition (~ 8–3 Ma). We hypothesize that meridional movements in the frontal zones (Polar Front and Subtropical Convergence) with their impact on hydrographic gradients would be evident in temporal changes in the planktonic foraminiferal stable isotopic gradients among the sites. Our results indicate that there were no large changes in δ18O gradients during the interval of study. Relatively small changes such as a gradual warming of about 3–4 °C at Site 1088 during the late Miocene fall well within the realm of modern ocean seasonality in this region. The early Pliocene δ18O records largely parallel the global decrease defined by benthic foraminifera in the deep Pacific suggesting no amplified warming of surface waters in the Southern Ocean. The planktic δ13C records vary positively with the δ18O records both in the long term trend as well as on the scale of individual data points. We believe that this association reflects primarily reduced nutrient utilization during warmer intervals although a small component of the signal would also be consistent with reduced carbon isotope fractionation during air–sea gas exchange during relatively warmer conditions. If correct, this argument would have implications for carbon cycling during the early Pliocene and would support scenarios of elevated CO2 levels.
The Biochemical and Functional Food Properties of the Bowman-Birk Inhibitor

The Bowman-Birk inhibitor (BBI) is a small water-soluble protein present in soybean and almost all monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous seeds. The molecular size of BBI ranges from 1,513 Da to about 20,000 Da. BBI is to seeds what alpha(1)-antitrypsin is to humans. Soy-based food products rich in BBI include soybean grits, soymilk, oilcake, soybean isolate, and soybean protein concentrate. BBI is stable within the pH range encountered in most foods, can withstand boiling water temperature for 10 min, resistant to the pH range and proteolytic enzymes of the gastrointestinal tract, bioavailable, and not allergenic. BBI reduces the proteolytic activities of trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase, cathepsin G, and chymase, serine protease-dependent matrix metalloproteinases, urokinase protein activator, mitogen activated protein kinase, and PI3 kinase, and upregulates connexin 43 (Cx43) expression. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of BBI against tumor cells in vitro, animal models, and human phase IIa clinical trials. FDA considers BBI as a drug. In 1999, FDA allowed a health claim on food labels stating that a daily diet containing 25 grams of soy protein, also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease [corrected] This review highlights the biochemical and functional food properties of the Bowman-Birk inhibitor.
Single high order mode VCSEL

A new structural element is introduced into a large area VCSEL which results in the device operating in a single high order mode. Results demonstrating stable singlemode behaviour are presented.
Evaluation of two rapid modifications of the 4-nitrophenyl-β-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid (PGUA) assay for the identification of Escherichia coli from urine

Two rapid modifications of a tube assay for the detection of β-glucuronidase activity (PGUA assay) were evaluated for the identification of Escherichia coli from urine cultures. A microwell and filter paper adaptation of the PGUA assay were tested using 1,234 oxidase-negative, Gram-negative rods isolated from urine on MacConkey agar in clinically significant numbers. There was perfect correlation between both methods and 676 of 797 E. coli isolates were PGUA-positive within 2 h while all of remaining isolates were PGUA-negative (sensitivity = 85%; specificity = 100%). We conclude that either modified format of the PGUA assay provides a useful, inexpensive, and rapid alternative spot test for the definitive identification of E. coli from urine because of the high degree of specificity.
Application of computed tomography for surveillance of aortic grafts.

Background. This study was undertaken to assess the application of computed tomography (CT) for surveillance of aortic grafts. Methods. Demographics, operative technique, and graft type and size at the time of implantation of aortic grafts in 178 patients were recorded. CT measurements of graft diameters were made with calipers. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance, multiple regression, and chi-squared methods. Results. One hundred twenty-eight (72%) bifurcated grafts and 50 (28%) tube grafts were placed for aneurysmal disease (49%), aortoiliac occlusive disease (47%), ruptured aneurysm (2.3%), anastomotic aneurysm (1%), and graft aneurysm (0.6%). Mean implant time was 43.3±3.2 months. A total of 143 Dacron prostheses (74 woven, 69 knitted) and 35 polytetrafluoroethylene prostheses were placed. Mean percentage dilation was 49.2±4.0 for knitted prostheses, 28.5±3.0 for woven prostheses, and 20.6±1.9 for polytetrafluoroethylene prostheses compared with the graft implant size. A significant correlation was seen between graft dilation (more than 50%) and graft construction with knitted prostheses (p Conclusions. CT is a useful modality for postoperative imaging of aortic prostheses. Routine surveillance may detect complications before they become clinically apparent.
Using constellation pharmacology to define comprehensively a somatosensory neuronal subclass

Change is intrinsic to nervous systems; change is required for learning and conditioning and occurs with disease progression, normal development, and aging. To better understand mammalian nervous systems and effectively treat nervous-system disorders, it is essential to track changes in relevant individual neurons. A critical challenge is to identify and characterize the specific cell types involved and the molecular-level changes that occur in each. Using an experimental strategy called constellation pharmacology, we demonstrate that we can define a specific somatosensory neuronal subclass, cold thermosensors, across different species and track changes in these neurons as a function of development. Cold thermosensors are uniformly responsive to menthol and innocuous cool temperature (17 °C), indicating that they express TRPM8 channels. A subset of cold thermosensors expressed α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) but not other nAChR subtypes. Differences in temperature threshold of cold thermosensors correlated with functional expression of voltage-gated K channels Kv1.1/1.2: Relatively higher expression of KV1.1/1.2 channels resulted in a higher threshold response to cold temperature. Other signaling components varied during development and between species. In cold thermosensors of neonatal mice and rats, ATP receptors were functionally expressed, but the expression disappeared with development. This developmental change occurred earlier in low-threshold than high-threshold cold thermosensors. Most rat cold thermosensors expressed TRPA1 channels, whereas mouse cold thermosensors did not. The broad implications of this study are that it is now feasible to track changes in receptor and ion-channel expression in individual neuronal subclasses as a function of development, learning, disease, or aging.
Combined treatment targeting HIF-1α and Stat3 is a potent strategy for prostate cancer therapy.

BACKGROUND The Stat3 pathway and the hypoxia-sensing pathway are both up-regulated in prostate cancer. Stat3 is a specific regulator of pro-carcinogenic inflammation and represents a promising therapeutic target. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1)α, which mediates the cellular response to hypoxia, has been demonstrated to be over-expressed in many human cancers and is associated with poor prognosis and treatment failure in clinic. To develop a potent strategy to increase therapeutic efficacy and reduce drug resistance in prostate cancer therapy, we combined two anti-cancer agents: T40214 (a p-Stat3 inhibitor) and JG244 (a HIF-1α inhibitor) together to treat nude mice bearing human prostate tumor (DU145) and immunocompetent mice (C57BL/6) bearing murine prostate tumor (TRAMP-C2). METHODS We employed in vitro and in vivo assays, including Western blots, cell cycle analysis, immunohistochemistry, TUNEL and xenograft models to determine the drug efficacy and mechanism of combination treatment of T40214 and JG244. RESULTS We found that compared to treatment by T40214 or JG244 alone, the combination treatment using T40214 and JG244 together significantly suppressed growth of human or murine prostate tumors. Also, compared with apoptotic cells induced by T40214 or JG244 alone, the combined treatment greatly increased apoptosis in DU145 (P < 0.006) and TRAMP-C2 tumors (P < 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that combination treatment including a HIF-1α/2α inhibitor not only has therapeutic efficacy in targeting HIF-1α/2α, but also could reduce the hypoxia-induced drug resistance to other therapies (e.g., T40214) and enhance drug efficacy. This approach could make prostate cancer treatments more effective. Prostate 71:1796–1809, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temporal sensitivity of protein kinase A activation in a stochastic reaction-diffusion model of late phase long term potentiation

Introduction The ability of neurons within the hippocampus to differentially respond to specific temporal and spatial patterns of stimulation underlies the storage of memory and information in neural circuits. Signal transduction pathways are critical for information storage and alterations in key signaling molecules, such as the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) signaling pathway, modify both hippocampus-dependent learning and a form of synaptic plasticity known as late-phase long-term potentiation (L-LTP). The induction of late phase LTP (L-LTP) in the CA1 region of the hippocampus requires several kinases, including CaMKII and PKA, which are activated by calcium-dependent signaling processes and other intracellular signaling pathways. Many of the biochemical reactions leading to activation of these critical kinases are localized to dendritic spines. The small size of theses spines implies that small numbers of molecules are involved; the presence of anchoring proteins and the morphology of neurons implies that molecules are inhomogeneously distributed. Therefore, to accurately model these cellular signaling events requires software for stochastic reaction-diffusion systems.
Asymptotically conical associative 3-folds

Given an associative 3-fold in R^7 which is asymptotically conical with generic rate less than 1, we show that its moduli space of deformations is locally homeomorphic to the kernel of a smooth map between smooth manifolds. Moreover, the virtual dimension of the moduli space is computed and shown to be non-negative for rates greater than -1, whereas the associative 3-fold is expected to be isolated for rates less than or equal to -1.
Sodium and glucose fluxes across the brush border of a flatworm (Calliobothrium verticillatum, Cestoda)

1. In Na+-free media, 2 min glucose influx(JGi) was sharply reduced. Li+ activated JGi to a small extent in the absence of Na+, while K+, choline and tris did not. When Na+ was varied with tris, choline, or Li+ substituted for deleted Na+, JGi was a hyperbolic function of Na+ concentration. When K+ was substituted, JGi was a linear function of Na+ concentration (Fig. 1). When K+ was varied at a low, constant Na+ concentration, K+ behaved as a fully competitive inhibitor of Na+ activation of JGi (Fig. 2). 2. At various fixed concentrations of Na+, JGi obeyed Michaelis-Menten kinetics. With decreasing Na+, there was a decrease in maximal glucose influx (JGimax) and no significant change in the apparent Michaelis constant (Kt) (Fig. 3, Table 2). Similar results were obtained with fixed glucose concentrations and varying Na+ (Fig. 4, Table 2). 3. Simultaneous determinations of22Na+ and14C-glucose influxes at 15 sec intervals showed that zero order kinetics pertained over a 2 min incubation period (Fig. 5). Influx coupling coefficients (Jnai/JGi) were determined in double labeling experiments with constant Na+ and varying glucose concentrations or with constant glucose and varying Na+. The experimentally determined coefficient was higher than 1.8 indicating a true coefficient of 2 or more. This coefficient was independent of Na+ and glucose concentrations (Fig. 6, Table 3). 4. After 30 min preloading with glucose, worms were incubated for 30 min in media with modified cation compositions containing 10.5 mM glucose. In low Na+, low K+ media, accumulation of glucose continued. In low Na+, high K+ media, there was no change in tissue glucose. In Na+-free, high K+ media, there was a net glucose efflux against a concentration difference (Table 4). Efflux of22Na+ from worms previously equilibrated in 250 mM22Na+ was not affected by the presence of glucose in the external medium. 5. The data are consistent with Crane's Na+-gradient hypothesis for the transport and accumulation of sugars.Calliobothrium is compared with some other Na+-glucose coupled animal systems and the data are discussed in terms of a model showing first order dependence on concentration and a coupling coefficient of 2 or more.
Carbony- 3C hyperfine coupling tensor in 3(nπ*) benzophenone

Abstract The carbonyl- 3C hyperfine coupling tensor of 3(nπ*) benzophenone has the principal values AC(O) = (44.7, −11.7, −10.9) MHz as determined by optically-detected ENDOR techniques in high field. These values are substantially less than expected for a highly-localized π-electron spin density distribution on the carbonyl fragment.
Race, religion or sex: what makes a superbowl ad controversial?

Advertisements that generate undue controversies can destroy an advertising campaign. However it is difficult to estimate the potential of controversies in advertisements through traditional methods such as customer surveys and market research. In this paper, we develop a controversy detection system based on initial comments on online advertisements posted on YouTube. We extract early YouTube comments on a collection of Superbowl advertisements and generate a comprehensive set of over 2500 semantic and linguistic features for automatically detecting controversies. Our results show good accuracy in early detection of controversies. The proposed data-driven approach can complement and greatly aid traditional approaches of market research.
Lipogenesis in the adipose cells of the bovine (Bos taurus) as related to their intramuscular fat content.

Abstract 1. 1. In vitro lipogenesis was compared in bovine animals (Bos taurus) with various degrees of intramuscular fat (marbling) by measuring the incorporation of 14C-acetate into fatty acids and the specific activity of acetyl CoA synthetase, acetyl CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase in the fat cells of subcutaneous as well as intramuscular adipose tissue. 2. 2. The rate of lipogenesis was higher in the subcutaneous tissue of the dairy cattle, when compared to beef cattle. 3. 3. The specific activity of acetyl CoA carboxylase was directly proportional to the extent of marbling.
The epidemiology of the acute flank pain syndrome from suprofen

Among nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, suprofen has a propensity to cause an unusual syndrome of acute severe flank pain, often bilateral and often accompanied by acute renal failure. Based on data presented here, risk factors for this syndrome include male sex, hay fever and asthma, participation in exercise, and alcohol consumption. Possible risk factors include a young age, concurrent use of analgesic agents, preexisting renal disease, a history of kidney stones, a history of gout, residence in the Sunbelt, a recent increase in activity, and a recent increase in sun exposure. Most of the factors are consistent with the postulated pathogenic mechanism of acute diffuse crystallization of uric acid in renal tubules
In vitro platelet adhesion to endothelial cells at low shear rates during copper deficiency in rats

Dietary copper restriction impairs thrombogenesis and hemostasis in rat microcirculation. In this study, the role of wall shear rate in platelet-to-endothelial cell adhesion in vitro was studied during copper deficiency. Platelets were obtained from male, weanling Sprague-Dawley rats fed purified diets, which were either copper-adequate (CuA, 6.3 μg Cu/g) or copper-deficient (CuD, 0.3 μg Cu/g), for 4 weeks. Platelets were through a parallel plate flow chamber containing cultured rat endothelial cells which were either normal or treated with the copper chelator tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA). Since platelet von Willebrand factor (vWF) concentration is decreased in CuD rats, we determined the platelet adhesion when CuD platelets were incubated in purified vWF (0.2 units/ml). Adhesion to normal endothelial cells was significantly lower for CuD platelets vs. CuA platelets at low (70 s−1; 21.5 ± 4.0% vs. 37.0 ± 2.7%) and relatively high (200 s−1; 9.3 ± 1.7% vs. 19.5 ± 1.1%) wall shear rates. Adhesion of CuD platelets to normal endothelial cells incubated in vWF was not different from adhesion of CuA platelets. Adhesion to TEPA-treated endothelial cells was lower than adhesion to normal endothelial cells for both CuA and CuD platelets (30.6 ± 1.5% vs. 37 ± 2.7%). Although increasing the shear rate (from 70 s−1 to 200 s−1) decreased adhesion of both CuA and CuD platelets, the ratio between groups remained similar. These results demonstrate that adhesion of CuD platelets to normal endothelial cells is less than that of CuA platelets under flow conditions typical for venules. Further, altered shear rate does not account for the depressed in vitro platelet adhesion. Thus, alteration of platelet and endothelial cell properties by copper deficiency may be of greater importance than the effect of flow conditions on endothelial cells in delaying thrombosis. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 12:25–36, 1999. Published 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A generalized multiscale finite element method for high-contrast single-phase flow problems in anisotropic media

In this paper, we describe a systematic framework called the Generalized Multiscale Finite Element Method (GMsFEM) for performing multiscale simulations, and we investigate the application of this framework to the high-contrast flow problems in anisotropic media. We present a multiscale model reduction technique for constructing a reduced-dimension space based on localized spectral decompositions. We discuss the multiscale coarse space both in parameter-independent and parameter-dependent cases. Furthermore, we highlight the relation between the solution convergence and the spectral behavior of the eigenvalue problems. A variety of numerical examples are presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed methodology.
Man's use of an andean ecosystem

The Andes are characterized by valley systems that differ according to the steepness of the environmental gradient as well as the human occupation and land use patterns. This article discusses the natural and crop zonation in one valley of the eastern Andes of northern Peru which includes many of the principal plant and crop zones of the Peruvian Andes. The entire valley is exploited by one peasant community. The article describes some of the land use patterns of the community and compares this valley system with others on the eastern slopes of the Andes.
When first line therapy for AA-amyloidosis secondary to rheumatoid arthritis fails: a correspondence.

Joint Bone Spine - In Press.Proof corrected by the author Available online since vendredi 28 septembre 2012
A method for calculating effects, on aquatic organisms, of time varying concentrations

Abstract A method is presented for calculation of the effects, on aquatic organisms, of exposure to time variable concentrations of toxicants. The technique employs data from classical bioassay tests obtained using constant toxicant concentrations. Calculations of organism mortality as a result of exposure to time varying concentrations are compared to observed data providing a test of the proposed method. The calculation procedure employs available data to assess the duration and extent of carry over effects from individual exposures. Applications and limitations of the proposed method conclude the discussion.
Chinese hamster ovary cells require the coexpression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase for the assembly and secretion of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins.

Due to the absence of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP), Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells lack the ability to translocate apoB into the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum, causing apoB to be rapidly degraded by an N-acetyl-leucyl-leucyl-norleucinal-inhibitable process. The goal of this study was to examine if expression of MTP, whose genetic deletion is responsible for the human recessive disorder abetalipoproteinemia, would recapitulate the lipoprotein assembly pathway in CHO cells. Unexpectedly, expression of MTP mRNA and protein in CHO cells did not allow apoB-containing lipoproteins to be assembled and secreted by CHO cells expressing apoB53. Although expression of MTP in cells allowed apoB to completely enter the endoplasmic reticulum, it was degraded by a proteolytic process that was inhibited by dithiothreitol (1 mM) and chloroquine (100 microM), but resistant to N-acetyl-leucyl-leucyl-norleucinal. In marked contrast, coexpression of the liver-specific gene product cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase with MTP resulted in levels of MTP lipid transfer activity that were similar to those in mouse liver and allowed intact apoB53 to be secreted as a lipoprotein particle. These data suggest that, although MTP-facilitated lipid transport is not required for apoB translocation, it is required for the secretion of apoB-containing lipoproteins. We propose that, in CHO cells, MTP plays two roles in the assembly and secretion of apoB-containing lipoproteins: 1) it acts as a chaperone that facilitates apoB53 translocation, and 2) its lipid transfer activity allows apoB-containing lipoproteins to be assembled and secreted. Our results suggest that the phenotype of the cell (e.g. expression of cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase by the liver) may profoundly influence the metabolic relationships determining how apoB is processed into lipoproteins and/or degraded.
SIGWEB annual report

SIGWEB has had an active and successful year since my last report to you in 2008. Our conferences and membership are growing. Our finances are sound. We are developing new programs including a system of student travel awards. I'll be reporting on these changes at SIGWEB Town Meetings at the upcoming JCDL, Hypertext, and DocEng conferences.
Self-gravitating radiation in anti-de sitter space

Equilibrium configurations of self-gravitating massless thermal radiation inside spherical boxes of radiusR in asymptotically anti-de Sitter space (A = -3/b 2) are constructed numerically for a range of central densities. For each box radius considered (R/b = 0, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, ∞), there is a unique configuration with maximal total mass and entropy, and another (at a lower central density) with maximum asymptotic red-shifted temperature. With the box removed toR=∞, the maximum total mass and entropy of self-gravitating thermal radiation areM max≈ 0.4598b≈0.7964(−A)−1/2 andS max≈1.3560a 1/4 b 3/2≈ 3.0910a 1/4(−A)−3/4, and the maximum red-shifted temperature is
Hamster placental lactogen-II contains a structural feature unique among the growth hormone-prolactin-placental lactogen family.

Sequence analysis of cDNA for hamster placental lactogen-II (PL-II) revealed that while this protein has a high degree of sequence homology to mouse and rat PL-II it contains a pair of cysteine residues not present in the mouse and rat proteins or in any other known member of the GH-PRL-PL protein family. This unique pair of cysteine residues may be responsible for the extreme tendency of hamster PL-II, compared to other members of the GH-PRLPL family, to form disulfide-bonded hormone-serum protein complexes.
Flux Quantization and Persistent Currents

Estimates are given of the factors affecting the stability of supercurrents below the critical temperature. Measurements are made of the stability of persistent currents in a long hollow cylinder of superconducting Sn to test the validity of these estimates, Lifetime effects associated with the current decay are noted. (T.F.H.)
Listing Fees and Their Role on eBay: Evidence from a Natural Experiment

Success of an online auction Web site is due to its appeal to bidders. Without bidders there would be no transactions. In a rising price auction, a higher opening price can act as a deterrent to bidder entry. The auctioneer can induce lower opening prices through a rising with respect to the opening prices insertion fee scheme. This will, in turn, increase bidder participation and, thus, increase the probability of an auction resulting in a sale. This work examines the impact the insertion fees have on the seller and buyer behavior on eBay using data generated by a natural experiment observed on eBay. The results demonstrate that the rising insertion fee structure of eBay induces sellers to lower their opening prices, which in turn, increases the bidding activity.
A Full Revolution: Offering 360 Degree Library Services to Clinical Clerkship Students

In their third year, medical students transition from the classroom to the hospital. Librarians can ease this transition from assignment-based to patient-based information needs, and at the University of Iowa this takes many forms. Preparation begins in the second year with foundational instruction. Customized electronic resource centers aid in selection of specialized resources; demonstrations at clerkship orientations promote these centers; attending morning reports show a librarian on the clinical team; and exercises assess the ability to find quality answers quickly. This combination has improved the students' searching facility and their comfort with library staff. Data show student resource selection became varied and appropriate, although understanding of study designs is suboptimal. Feedback has been positive from both students and faculty. While these techniques have been successful, they are only the first step in an evolving program.
Purification and properties of thymidine phosphorylase from Salmonella typhimurium.

Abstract Thymidine phosphorylase (thymidine + Pi thymine + 2-deoxy- d -ribose-1-phosphate, EC 2.4.2.4) from Salmonella typhimurium, LT-2 has been purified 257-fold. A molecular weight for the native enzyme of 100,000 ± 10% was determined by Sephadex G-150 filtration. Disc gel electrophoresis of the enzyme in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed a subunit molecular weight of 47,000, indicating that the enzyme is composed of two subunits. The purified enzyme was found to be specific for the pyrirnidine deoxyribonucleosides, thymidine and deoxyuridine. The Michaelis constants for thymidine, deoxyuridine, phosphate, and arsenate were 2.1 m m , 8.0 m m , 2.3 m m , and 1.3 m m , respectively. Initial velocity and product inhibition studies are consistent with an ordered Bi Bi mechanism, with the nucleoside the first substrate to add to, and the pyrirnidine base the last product to leave, the enzyme surface.
Practicing Positive CBT: From Reducing Distress to Building Success

Fredrike Bannink, West Sussex: Wiley-Blackwell, 2012. ISBN 978-1-119-95270-1 (h/b); 95269-5 (p/b) In this accessible book, Fredrike Bannink has provided clinicians with a comprehensive guide to und...
A design for a double-tuned birdcage coil for use in an integrated MRI/MRS examination

Abstract The performance of a new design for a double-tuned birdcage volume coil using multiple-pole tuning elements was evaluated. The relative signal to noise of a double-tuned four-strut extremity coil (22 cm long, 15 cm diameter) was compared with that of two single-tuned extremity coils of the same dimensions. The signal to noise of the double-tuned extremity coil at the 1H frequency was 92 ± 3% of that obtained with the single-tuned proton coil. The signal-to-noise ratio obtained with the double-tuned coil at the 31P frequency was 94 ± 4% of the signal to noise obtained with the single-tuned 31P Coil. The signal-to-noise comparisons between the extremity coils show that the double-tuned design is competitive with single-tuned coils of similar design at both frequencies and may actually make possible images and spectra with superior signal to noise to that obtainable with single-tuned coils in an integrated exam. These preliminary experiments show that this new design has advantages over single-tuned coils for generating spatially localized 31P spectra. This dual capability offers clear advantages for the integration of MRI and MRS in the clinical setting.
Immersion interferometer for microscopic moire interferometry

The basic sensitivity of moire interferometry has been increased beyond the previously conceived theoretical limit. This is accomplished by creating the virtual reference grating inside a refractive medium instead of air, thus shortening the wavelength of light. Various optical configurations of moire interferometry for operation in a refractive medium are introduced and one of them has been put into current practice. A very compact four-beamimmersion interferometer has been developed for microscopic viewing, which produces a basic sensitivity of 4.8 fringes per μm displacement (contour interval of 0.208 μm per fringe order), corresponding to moire with 4800 lines per mm. Its configuration makes it inherently stable and relatively insensitive to environmental disturbances. An optical microscope is employed to obtain high spatial resolution. The method is demonstrated for deformation of a thick graphite/epoxy composite at the 0/90-deg ply interface.
The reactions of fluorenylidene with heteroatomic nucleophiles

Abstract The reaction of fluorenylidene with heteroatomic nucleophiles gives good yields of addition products. The rates of these reactions were determined using laser spectrophotometric techniques Kinetic and product isotope effects were measured. The results of this investigation show that the reaction of the carbene with the nucleophile is not a one-step process. The implication of these conclusions to the spin selective reactions of carbenes and their utility as photoaffinity labels is discussed.
Monotone dependence of the spectral bound on the transition rates in linear compartment models

For linear compartment models or Leslie-type staged population models with quasi-positive matrix the spectral bound of the matrix (the eigenvalue determining stability) is studied in the situation where particles or individuals leave a compartment or stage with some rate and enter another with the same rate. Then the matrix carries the rate with a positive sign in some off-diagonal entry and with a negative sign in the corresponding diagonal entry. Hence the matrix does not depend on the rate in a monotone way. It is shown, however, that the spectral bound is a monotone function of the rate. It is all the time strictly increasing or strictly decreasing or it is constant. A simple algebraic criterion distinguishes between the three cases. The results can be applied to linear systems and to the stability of stationary states in non-linear systems, in particular to models for the transmission of infectious diseases, and in population dynamics.
The phototoxic effect of benoxaprofen and its analogs on human erythrocytes and rat peritoneal mast cells.

— Benoxaprofen [2-(4-chlorophenyl)-α-methyl-5-benzoxazoleacetic acid] is a phototoxic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent. Irradiation of human erythrocytes in the presence of benoxaprofen (8 μM) and oxygen resulted in rapid cell lysis which began after 10 min and was complete within 30 min. While photohemolysis was also observed under anerobic conditions, its onset was delayed for more than 20 min and it took nearly 100 min for complete lysis to occur. Photohemolysis was also delayed by butylated hydroxyanisole but was unaffected by reduced glutathione. 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, D2O. β-carotene, or superoxide dismutase. The main photoproduct of benoxaprofen, 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-ethylbenzoxazole, was almost as effective in causing photohemolysis as benoxaprofen itself. In the presence of UV irradiation, benoxaprofen (10 (μM) caused the degranulation of rat peritoneal mast cells and the release of histamine. The release of mast cell histamine may provide a reasonable explanation for the urticarial response to benoxaprofen and irradiation seen in human subjects.
QAR: Enhancing Comprehension and Test Taking Across Grades and Content Areas

Teachers today face increasing demands to ensure their students achieve high levels of literacy. They may feel overwhelmed by the challenges of teaching reading comprehension strategies that foster the integration, interpretation, critique, and evaluation of text ideas. The challenges are compounded because students of diverse backgrounds often enter classrooms reading far below grade level. In this article, the authors describe how Question-Answer Relationships (QARs) can provide a framework for comprehension instruction with the potential of closing the literacy achievement gap. QAR can serve as a starting point for addressing four problems of practice that stand in the way of moving all students to high levels of literacy: The need for a shared language to make visible the invisible processes underlying reading and listening comprehension The need for a framework for organizing questioning activities and comprehension instruction within and across grades and school subjects The need for accessible and straightforward whole-school reform for literacy instruction for higher level thinking The need to prepare students for high-stakes testing without undermining a focus on higher level thinking with text.
Increased epidermal growth factor levels in human milk of mothers with extremely premature infants.

Increased Epidermal Growth Factor Levels in Human Milk of Mothers with Extremely Premature Infants
Cutting Edge: Evidence for a Dynamically Driven T Cell Signaling Mechanism

T cells use the αβ TCR to bind peptides presented by MHC proteins (pMHC) on APCs. Formation of a TCR-pMHC complex initiates T cell signaling via a poorly understood process, potentially involving changes in oligomeric state, altered interactions with CD3 subunits, and mechanical stress. These mechanisms could be facilitated by binding-induced changes in the TCR, but the nature and extent of any such alterations are unclear. Using hydrogen/deuterium exchange, we demonstrate that ligation globally rigidifies the TCR, which via entropic and packing effects will promote associations with neighboring proteins and enhance the stability of existing complexes. TCR regions implicated in lateral associations and signaling are particularly affected. Computational modeling demonstrated a high degree of dynamic coupling between the TCR constant and variable domains that is dampened upon ligation. These results raise the possibility that TCR triggering could involve a dynamically driven, allosteric mechanism.
An autoradiographic study on the question of retrograde axoplasmic transport following the injection of 3H-leucine into the tongue.

Retrograde transport in peripheral nerve was investigated by injecting 3H-leucine unilaterally into tongues of adult rats. The animals were killed at varied intervals up to 14 days following injection, and autoradiographs were prepared. Labeled material was observed in intrinsic nerves of the tongues in all animals studied. The somata of hypoglossal neurons, however, were not labeled, indicating that radioactive material had not been transported throughout the length of the nerve cells.
Regular, area-time efficient carry-lookahead adders

For fast binary addition, a carry-lookahead (CLA) design is the obvious choice [OnAt83, BaJM831. However, the direct implementation of a CLA adder in VLSI faces some undesirable limitations. Either the design lacks regularity, thus increasing the design and implementation costs, or the interconnection wires are too long, thus causing area-time inefficiency and limits on the size of addition. Brent and Kung solved the regularity problem by reformulating the carry chain computation [BrKu82]. They showed that an n-bit addition can be performed in time O(log n), using area O(n log n) with maximum interconnection wire length o(n). In this paper, we give an alternative log n stage design which is nearly optimum with respect to regularity, area-time efficiency, and maximum interconnection wire length.
Modeling an organizational decision support system to improve retailers' decisions

Retail organizations (grocery stores, department stores, etc.) have access to rich data, based on scanner technology at store check-out counters. Most experts acknowledge that these data are under-utilized for lack of sophisticated organizational decision support systems to transform the scanner data into useful information that can be disseminated and used across the many stores of a retail organization. This paper offers a mathematical model that can be used in conjunction with scanner data in a retailer's decision support system. The proposed model can help retailers maximize individual store profits by helping choose "optimal" brands for the price promotions. By maximizing store profits, the overall profit potential of the organization is enhanced. Additionally, the proposed model has substantial theoretical appeal as it is based on the literature from the field of ecology. >
Rapidity signatures of phase transition in high-energy nucleus-nucleus collisions

Comparison of the Japanese-American Cooperative Emulsion Experiment, Si-AgBr collision with Monte Carlo simulation of the interaction indicates an excess of particles with pseudorapidities n>3. Such an excess is consistent with the assumption of the formation of a phase-transition fireball in the projectile Si nucleus.
Concurrent chronic lymphocytic leukemia and cutaneous T cell lymphoma: a case series

Th e occurrence of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the same patient is unusual. Of 1263 patients with biopsy-proven CTCL at a single institution, we identifi ed 14 patients with concomitant CLL. Th e overall prevalence of CLL in our CTCL population was 1.11%, higher than expected by the estimated annual incidence of CLL. A prospectively collected, previously published database of patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) and S e zary syndrome (SS) seen at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center from 1982 to 2009 [1] was queried to identify patients who also had CLL. Th is database is similar in survival outcomes and percentage of early-stage patients to other databases in America and Europe [2,3]. All patients signed M. D. Anderson Institutional Review Board approved informed consents and underwent baseline staging work-up, including skin biopsy with immunohistochemistry staining and peripheral blood examination by either a hematopathologist manually for S e zary cells or fl ow cytometry for CD4 CD26 cells.
Statistics of solder joint alignment for optoelectronic components

The use of an area array of solder joints allows the self-alignment of a large number of components in microelectronic packages. The sensitivity to statistical variations in solder joint volumes is investigated. The analysis shows that sufficiently large arrays of randomly distributed volumes lead to very narrow distributions in the height and tilt of one component relative to another. >
Exploring radio frequency identification technology and its impact on business systems

Purpose – To provide practitioners of management a sense of the importance of strategically leveraging the current and historic development of radio frequency identification (RFID) in order to find inexpensive applications of radio frequency‐based (RF) technologies in many areas.Design/methodology/approach – A review of the applied literature on RFID, as well as from practical experience, resulted in a basic model of viewpoint to understand the nature of the emergent RF‐based industry.Findings – Wal‐Mart and other cost sensitive and value chain progressive companies' usage of RFID‐based technology should revolutionize the method that companies' track inventory. However, some of the disadvantages include costs, training, product label and supplies, and privacy infringement. One asset to companies like Wal‐Mart is pallet tracking because it improves on‐time inventory delivery. This helps Wal‐Mart since they rely on just‐in‐time ordering.Research limitations/implications – RFID is currently used in many indu...