cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Second malignant neoplasms after successful treatment of childhood cancers.

Abstract ABSTRACT Improved treatment and supportive care have increased the survival of children diagnosed with cancer. This success has resulted in a growing population at risk of long-term complications of therapy, including secondary malignancy. These neoplasms may result from the direct effect of the modalities used in treatment of the primary tumor, more indirect effects of the treatment or supportive care, the genetic predisposition of the patient, or to interactions among these factors. The increasing success of cancer therapy is producing a rapidly growing population of patients at risk of second malignancy. This is a result of the increasing intensity of treatments and the increasing duration of survival, which provides the time to manifest the late effects of therapy. The concept that a patient is “cured” at some arbitrary time after treatment does not diminish the need for follow-up of all cancer survivors to identify and treat secondary malignancies. These risks have led to an increased effort to define phenotypic and genotypic categories of patients that may be cured with less intensive therapy and to develop molecularly targeted drugs that have fewer noxious effects on normal tissues.
Comparison of historic Grübler dyes with modern counterparts using thin layer chromatography.

The aniline dye industry was created in 1856 when William Perkin prepared the dye, mauve, from coal tar. Following that discovery, several dye manufacturing businesses were formed in Western Europe, most successfully in Germany. It was to these companies that early investigators turned to obtain these new dyes for the developing field of biology. In 1880, Dr. Georg Grubler started a company in Germany to supply the needs of biologists. Grubler dyes developed a reputation for excellence. In the study reported here, 29 samples of 12 Grubler dyes were compared to modern counterparts using thin layer chromatography. The dyes studied were basic fuchsine, acid fuchsine, safranine, pyronine, aniline blue, ponceau, gentian violet, methylene blue, orange G, malachite green, and Sudan III and IV. I found that these early Grubler dyes closely resembled modern day counterparts; however, the use of synonyms was confusing and some of the fat stains were mislabeled by modern criteria. The chromatograms of some dyes exhi...
Determination of latex particle size by light scattering. VI. Minima and maxima in the angular dependence of the polarization ratio

Abstract Unpolarized incident light of various wavelengths in the medium, λm, was used to measure the polarization ratio, ρu, of latices as a function of angle. The angular positions of the minima and maxima in ρu are shown experimentally to be related to the particle diameter of the latices, D, by the relations D λ m sin ( δ i 2 )=l i and D λ m sin ( ω i 2 )=L i where δi and ωi are the angles at which appear, respectively, the minima and maxima in ρu, and i = 1, 2, 3, etc., depending on the order in which the minima and maxima occur. In these equations li and Li are constants for a given order, and they depend only on the refractive index ratio of the scattering spheres to medium. Use of these equations allows evaluation of particle diameters which agree well with those obtained by other methods both at constant and variable λm. Depending on the wavelength employed, the first two minima and maxima in ρu may be used to determine particle diameters which range from about 0.13 to 6.3 microns. It is also shown that the above equations follow from Mie theory calculations. However, the parameters li and Li obtained from the theory agree with experiment only for the first minimum, and they are larger than the experimental for all the other minima and maxima. The discrepancy between the Mie theory parameters and those obtained experimentally is believed to be due to anisotropy present in the latex particles.
Relationship between left atrial and left ventricular function in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a real-time 3-dimensional echocardiographic study.

Background Left atrium (LA) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC) has been known to have an increased size and decreased contractile function. The purpose of this study was to investigate LA and left ventricular (LV) volume change and function with real-time 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography and to investigate association between LA and LV function in HC. Methods We performed real-time 3D echocardiography on 26 patients with HC and on 15 control subjects. LA and LV time-volume curves were obtained from real-time 3D echocardiography and the maximal slope of the time-volume curve was expressed as dV/dt. LA active emptying fraction was calculated as: [(precontraction LA volume − minimal LA volume)/precontraction LA volume] × 100. Results The maximal LA volume index was larger, and LA active emptying fraction was lower, in those with HC than control subjects (50.1 ± 15.9 vs 30.1 ± 6.8 mL/m 2 and 33.3 ± 13.7 vs 40.4 ± 8.6%, both P r = −0.64, P P r = 0.47 and r = 0.48, both P Conclusion Our 3D echocardiographic study showed that increased LA volume was related to decreased LA contraction in HC. LA passive emptying was related to LV relaxation whereas LA active contraction was related to LV stiffness.
Mn2+ and Ca2+ ATPases in lobster axon plasma membranes and their inhibition by pesticides.

1. 1. Divalent cation ATPases were studied in axonic membrane preparations derived from the lobster H. americanus. Separate Mn2+ and Ca2+ stimulated ATPases were distinguished. 2. 2. Mn2+ ATPase was found to be most active at 20°C whereas Ca2+ ATPase was most active at 37°C. 3. 3. Divalent cation ATPases were inhibited by the neurotoxic pesticides DDT, kepone, plictran and allethrin with IC50 values ranging from 10−6 to 10(su−4) M. 4. 4. Oligomycin (IC50 1−7 M) was found to be a potent inhibitor of axonic membrane ATPases. 5. 5. Inhibition of divalent cation ATPase including ecto-ATPases may be related to the neurotoxicity of pesticides.
Leukocyte adhesion on model surfaces under flow: effects of surface chemistry, protein adsorption, and shear rate.

The effect of specific chemical functionalities on the adhesion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) under flow was investigated using a set of well-characterized, chemically functionalized surfaces prepared by self-assembly of alkanethiolate monolayers on gold surfaces. Terminal functionalities included CH3, CH2OH, COOH, and (OCH2CH2)3OH groups. A new surface modification was used to incorporate a phosphorylcholine moiety on the hydroxyl-terminated monolayer. Surface modification was verified using contact-angle measurements, ellipsometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Adhesion on the surfaces was studied in the presence and absence of pre-adsorbed fibrinogen. Fibrinogen adsorption on self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) was quantified using radioisotope detection. PMN adhesion was found to be dependent on the monolayer's terminal functionality. Adhesion was higher on the hydrophobic CH3 surface and the polar COOH monolayer. Leukocyte adhesion was least on the phosphorylcholine-rich surface, followed by the ethylene-oxide-containing monolayer. Cell adhesion also was low on the hydrophilic OH monolayer. Attachment was decreased with increasing shear rate, exhibiting a three-fold decrease between 20 and 100 s−1. Fibrinogen adsorption was higher on the CH3 monolayer but comparable for the other four SAMs. Preincubation of the surfaces with fibrinogen decreased adhesion on all SAMs examined. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 50, 291–301, 2000.
Analysis of Argumentative Writing at Two Grade Levels

Abstract The purpose of this study was threefold: (a) to investigate the effectiveness of four instructional strategies on student argumentative writing at the 10th- and 12th-grade levels; (b) to describe the differences among student writing at the two grade levels based on essays obtained at three different times; and (c) to determine how various qualities within the essays influenced the raters' decisions with holistic scoring. The results of the study indicate that there were no significant differences in the effectiveness of the four instructional strategies, which included instruction with model pieces of writing; with scales, questions, and criteria to guide writing; with models and scales/questions/criteria; and with free-writing activities. The results further indicate that the scoring of 10th and 12th graders' writing was not significantly different when using either a holistic scoring guide or Toulmin's (1958) model of argument. Both 10th and 12th graders, however, used significantly more argum...
Sisomicin — efficacy and tolerance of various dosages in urinary tract infections

Sisomicin was administered in three studies to a total of 65 hospitalized patients with complicated genitourinary conditions. Study 1 consisted of 20 hospitalized patients who received intramuscular injections of 1.0 mg/kg for seven to ten days. Study 2 was a comparison of once daily versus twice daily administration of 24 patients. The dose was 75 mg or 100 mg once or twice daily, depending on weight. In study 3, an ongoing study, the effectiveness and tolerance of sisomicin administered in a BID regimen versus gentamicin in the conventional TID regimen were compared. The dose of sisomicin was 50 mg or 75 mg BID depending on patients' weight, and that of gentamicin was 60 mg or 80 mg TID, depending on weight. Urine cultures were done on all patients prior, during, and after treatment. If possible, vestibular function and hearing were checked each day. Hematological and blood chemistry tests, including tests of renal and hepatic function, were usually done once before, and three times during, treatment. Sisomicin serum levels were assayed by obtaining blood samples one hour after injection on various days during treatment. In study 1 18 of 20 infections were evaluated as resolved both clinically and bacteriologically at the end of the treatment period. In study 2 the infections of ten of the 12 patients who were treated on the once-daily regimen were considered clinically and bacteriologically resolved. Nine of the 12 patients treated BID with sisomicin were clinically and bacteriologically cured. In study 3 all seven patients receiving sisomicin BID were clinically and bacteriologically cured. Five of the 14 patients treated with gentamicin TID were clinically and bacteriologically cured. Local tolerance was good in all patients except for two in study 1 who experienced moderate pain. There was one probable adverse reaction, a rise in creatinine clearance in a patient in study 3 treated with gentamicin. All other laboratory values and clinical observations were within normal limits.
Item Bias on the 1981 Revision of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test Using a New Method of Detecting Bias

This study reports an analysis of item bias on Form L and Form M of the 1981 revision of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test for 2100 black and white children using a newly developed method of detection employing partial correlations. Few occasions of bias occurred for either form under this method, and none occurred under an ANOVA method also employed. The partial correlation index of bias was concluded to be a computationally simpler, more convenient, and generally superior index of item bias.
Current approach to fertility preservation by embryo cryopreservation

The ovaries are susceptible to damage following treatment with gonadotoxic chemotherapy, pelvic radiotherapy, and/or ovarian surgery. Gonadotoxic treatments have also been used in patients with various nonmalignant systemic diseases. Any women of reproductive age with a sufficiently high risk of developing future ovarian failure due to those medical interventions may benefit from embryo cryopreservation though the tools of assessment of such a risk are still not very precise. Furthermore, the risk assessment can be influenced by many other factors such as the delay expected after chemotherapy and the number of children desired in the future. Embryo cryopreservation is an established and most successful method of fertility preservation when there is sufficient time available to perform ovarian stimulation. This publication will review the current state, approach, and indications of embryo cryopreservation for fertility preservation.
Neurotoxic APP C-terminal and β-amyloid domains colocalize in the nuclei of substantia nigra pars reticulata neurons undergoing delayed degeneration

Abstract Increased amyloid precursor protein (APP) expression and intracellular accumulation of its toxic fragments have been associated with acute neuronal death processes. However, the role of APP fragments in delayed neurodegeneration remains poorly understood. We have characterized the appearance of APP domains in rat substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpR) neurons targeted for delayed degeneration following neurotoxic striatal lesion. From 4 to 8 days postlesion (dpl) SNpR neurons ipsilateral to the lesion showed marked cytosolic accumulation of full length APP. Moreover, the nuclei of affected neurons also showed intense immunoreactivity (IR) for APP C-terminal and β-amyloid domains but not for an N-terminal sequence. These data suggested the presence of APP C-terminal fragment. The absence of nuclear IR for a β1–40 specific antibody supports this conclusion. Ultrastructural analysis of nigral sections from 6 dpl rats using a β-amyloid domain antibody showed pronounced accumulation of immunogold-silver reaction product in the nuclei of affected SNpR neurons that was absent in control, contralateral SNpR neurons. These findings suggest that intranuclear APP C-terminal fragment may play a role in genomic events contributing to delayed neuron degeneration in the SNpR.
The effect of temperature on monoxygenase reactions in the microsomal membrane.

Abstract The effect of temperature on the rates of monoxygenase reactions was studied with microsomes prepared from phenobarbital pretreated rats. The rates of the N- demethylation of ethylmorphine, benzphethamine, aminopyrine, and p- nitroanisole were studied. Breaks at temperatures around 24°C were observed in the Arrhenius plots of all these reactions. The energy of activation of these reactions has values of 10–12 and 19–21 kcal per mol at temperature ranges above and below the break temperature, respectively. The break, however, was not observed if 30% glycerol was added to the microsomes. The Arrhenius plot of the microsomal NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity also did not show any break. The implications of these observations in relationship to the fluidity of the membrane, the translational mobility of membrane enzymes, and the rate of monoxygenase reactions are discussed.
Respirable antimony and other trace-elements inside and outside an elementary school in Flagstaff, AZ, USA

Abstract Because people spend almost 90% of their time indoors, ambient air monitors may severely underestimate actual exposure to atmospheric particulate matter (PM). Therefore, it becomes increasingly important to better understand the microenvironments where people are spending their time. For preadolescent children, the best estimates of exposure may be inside of their school. In this study, 11 size fractions of PM were collected inside and outside of an elementary school in Flagstaff, AZ, USA. In particles
Toward a Unified Theory of Urbach's Rule and Exponential Absorption Edges

Exponential absorption edges $\ensuremath{\alpha}=A{e}^{g(\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\hbar}{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{0})}$ have been observed in both ionic (Urbach's rule: $g=\frac{\ensuremath{\sigma}}{{k}_{B}{T}^{*}}$ and covalent materials. Arguments are given to show that a unified theory of exponetial absorption edges must (i) rely on electric microfields as the cause, (ii) include exciton effects and the final-state interaction between the electron and the hole, and (iii) ascribe Urbach's rule to the relative, internal motion of the exciton. An approximate calculation has been made in which the nonuniform microfields are replaced by a statistical distribution of uniform microfields; this calculation is a generalization to physically relevant intermediate-strength fields of previous strong- and weak-field theories of Redfield and Dexter. In contrast with the other microfield models, which obtain the exponential spectral shape by averaging over microfield distributions, the present theory obtains a quantitatively exponential edge as an inherent feature. The temperature dependences of the edges in various materials follow qualitatively from the nature of the microfield sources. The specific temperature dependence of Urbach's rule in ionic crystals is obtained from this model, with supplementary arguments to account for nonuniformity of the fields.
Design and optimization of extrusion dies using computer based simulations

Computer based simulations can be used to design and optimize commonly used industrial dies thereby reducing the need for costly modifications of a poorly designed die. Strategies are presented for the design and optimization of three types of extrusion dies, a mandrel pipe die, a spiral blown film die, and a coat-hanger sheet die. The development of the computer model for each of the dies is presented. The assumptions made in the model and the numerical techniques employed in each of the simulations are outlined. Numerous examples are given to illustrate how each of the design simulations is used.
Low level detection of chemical agent simulants in meat and milk by ion trap mass spectrometry

Abstract Analytical methods for the detection of two chemical warfare agent simulants, diisopropyl methylphosphonate and chloroethylethylsulfide, in beef tissue and milk have been demonstrated to be effective to levels as low as 50–100 parts-per-billion. These methods are based upon thermal desorption into an ion trap mass spectrometer. Selective detection of the target compounds is achieved by isobutane chemical ionization in combination with collision-induced dissociation, which yields characteristic fragment ions. Rapid sample clean-up steps were also devised to reduce interferences from the sample matrix. The low detection limits achieved with this method suggest that it may be possible to take small tissue samples from livestock by needle biopsy, without requiring animal sacrifice for the analysis. In addition, because the new methods may be performed more quickly than conventional methods requiring substantial sample preparation and analysis time, more samples could be analyzed.
The influence of vision on computerized neurobehavioral test scores: a proposal for improving test protocols.

Abstract Computerized tests of neurobehavioral function are frequently administered in neurotoxicological studies with little attention given to the optical properties of test stimuli or to the vision of subjects. Yet many test stimuli are small or briefly presented, and test endpoints often involve short reaction times. Stimulus detection and reaction time are known to be strongly dependent upon stimulus lumi nance, contrast, and size, as well as on the suject's visual abilities. The current study assessed the influence of visual contrast sensitivity on Neurobehavioral Evaluation System 2 (NES2) test results in three data sets. Analyses indicated that vision was associated with up to 24% of the variance (Hand-Eye Coordination test) in NES2 scores, even when visual acuity was normal, and that vision often influenced the significance of group differences. It is suggested that researchers measure the lumi nance, contrast, and size of test stimuli, the distance from the subject's eyes to the monitor, and the subject's visual contrast sensitivity. The measurement and control of stimulus parameters and the inclusion of visual function scores in analysis models could reduce the variability among computerized test scores both within and between studies. Models that assess the influence of vision on computerized test results may help to identify the CNS domains and specialized functions adversely affected by neurotoxicant exposures.
Mechanism of action of hydroxychloroquine as an antirheumatic drug

The antimalarial agents chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have been used widely for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. These compounds lead to improvement of clinical and laboratory parameters, but their slow onset of action distinguishes them from glucocorticoids and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine increase pH within intracellular vacuoles and alter processes such as protein degradation by acidic hydrolases in the lysosome, assembly of macromolecules in the endosomes, and posttranslation modification of proteins in the Golgi apparatus. It is proposed that the antirheumatic properties of these compounds results from their interference with "antigen processing" in macrophages and other antigen-presenting cells. Acidic cytoplasmic compartments are required for the antigenic protein to be digested and for the peptides to assemble with the alpha and beta chains of MHC class II proteins. As a result, antimalarials diminish the formation of peptide-MHC protein complexes required to stimulate CD4+ T cells and result in down-regulation of the immune response against autoantigenic peptides. Because this mechanism differs from other antirheumatic drugs, antimalarials are well suited to complement these other compounds in combination drug therapy.
Shear Traction and Sticking Scope of Frictional Contact between Two Elastic Cylinders

In this study, the frictional contact with partial slide between two elastic cylinders is considered. According to the Spence’s self-similarity condition, a system of singular integral equations is constructed with respect to the normal pressure and the shear traction in the contacting area. Based on the Goodman’s hypothesis, the preceding system is uncoupled. Based on this, the tangential load in the central sticking zone is possible to be obtained analytically by means of the theory on the singular integral equation. Besides, a nonlinear equation with respect to the ratio of the slip and adhesive zone sizes is derived on the basis of the continuity of the tangential load. The stick zone size can thus be determined by solving the nonlinear equation mention above iteratively. A numerical example is provided to verify and validate the theory proposed in this work.
Predicting ten-year survival of patients with primary cutaneous melanoma: corroboration of a prognostic model.

BACKGROUND Recently, the Pigmented Lesion Group at the University of Pennsylvania described a 4-variable model for predicting 10-year survival for patients with primary cutaneous melanoma. The variables are tumor thickness, anatomic site of the lesion, age, and gender. The objective of the current study was to test the validity of this model, employing the large data base of the New York University Melanoma Cooperative Group. METHODS The predicted probabilities of 10-year survival for 780 patients with primary cutaneous melanoma were determined by multivariate logistic regression, using the 4 variables. RESULTS The overall 10-year survival rate of the current study group was 78.4%. Of the four variables, tumor thickness, anatomic site of the lesion, and age were found to be independent predictors of survival. Although survival was better for women, gender was not a statistically significant factor in predicting 10-year survival when entered into the multivariate logistic regression model. In the current study, the probability of 10-year survival of patients with melanomas < 0.76 mm ranged from 93-99%, depending on the age and primary site. Age and site had more impact on the prognosis of intermediate and thick melanomas than on thin melanomas. Thus, for melanomas 0.76-1.69 mm, 1.70-3.60 mm, and thicker than 3.60 mm, the probabilities of survival ranged from 70-94%, 39-82%, and 23-68%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The wider ranges in survival rates for thicker melanomas, depending on the other variables, emphasize the importance of including variables in addition to tumor thickness in a prognostic model. Using a large data base from a medical center, the current study supports the prognostic multivariate model of the Pigmented Lesions Group of the University of Pennsylvania; however, the authors of the current study did not find gender to be statistically significant in this multivariate model. Cancer 1997; 80:1426-31. © 1997 American Cancer Society.
Role of Human Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) Promoter Methylation and of Methyl-CpG-binding Protein MBD2 in the Suppression of rRNA Gene Expression

The methylation status of the CpG island located within the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) promoter in human hepatocellular carcinomas and pair-matched liver tissues was analyzed by bisulfite genomic sequencing. Significant hypomethylation of methyl-CpGs in the rRNA promoter was observed in the tumor samples compared with matching normal tissues, which was consistent with the relatively high level of rRNA synthesis in rapidly proliferating tumors. To study the effect of CpG methylation on RNA polymerase I (pol I)-transcribed rRNA genes, we constructed pHrD-IRES-Luc (human rRNA promoter-luciferase reporter). In this plasmid, Kozak sequence of the pGL3-basic vector was replaced by the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) of encephalomyocarditis viral genome to optimize pol I-driven reporter gene expression. Transfection of this plasmid into HepG2 (human) cells revealed reduced pol I-driven luciferase activity with an increase in methylation density at the promoter. Markedly reduced luciferase activity in Hepa (mouse) cells compared with HepG2 (human) cells showed that pHrD-IRES-Luc is transcribed by pol I. Site-specific methylation of human rRNA promoter demonstrated that methylation of CpG at the complementary strands located in the promoter (-9, -102, -347 with respect to the +1 site) inhibited luciferase activity, whereas symmetrical methylation of a CpG in the transcribed region (+152) did not affect the promoter activity. Immunofluorescence studies showed that the methyl-CpG-binding proteins, MBD1, MBD2, MBD3, and MeCP2, are localized both in the nuclei and nucleoli of HepG2 cells. Transient overexpression of MBD2 suppressed luciferase activity specifically from the methylated rRNA promoter, whereas MBD1 and MBD3 inhibited rRNA promoter activity irrespective of the methylation status. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed predominant association of MBD2 with the endogenous methylated rRNA promoter, which suggests a selective role for MBD2 in the methylation-mediated inhibition of ribosomal RNA gene expression.
An improved ATC radar beacon system

This paper summarizes the work of the Beacon Systems Panel of the Air Traffic Control Advisory Committee.
Simulated group counseling: An experiential training model for group work

Abstract An experiential group training model designed for prepracticum-level counseling graduate students is described. Simulated Group Counseling (SGC) offers students an opportunity to experience being group members, facilitating a group, and processing the group with peers and an advanced graduate student observer as well as the instructor during the course of an academic term. SGC reduces dual-relationship ethical issues because students role-play group members during the SGC. Procedures such as group formation, roles of observers and instructor; and group processing are discussed as are the strengths and limitations of the model.
Coal Fueled Aero-Derivative Gas Turbine: Design Approach

The direct use of coal as a gas turbine fuel offers the opportunity to burn coal in an environmentally sound manner at a competitive cost of energy. A development program is underway to verify the feasibility of using coal water mixture to fuel an aero-derivative gas turbine. This paper presents the overall program approach, required gas turbine design modifications, and reports the results from small-scale combustor test facilities.The GE LM500 gas turbine was selected for this program because of its high efficiency and size, which is appropriate for transportation and cogeneration markets. The LM500 gas turbine power system design will be modified to accommodate coal fuel and any required emissions control devices. The design for the modified annular combustor is complete and preparations for coal fired tests of a 140 degree annular sector combustor are in progress. The combustor design and test development are being supported by a component test program with a One Nozzle Segment Combustor and a single can combustor LM500 Turbine Simulator. These test facilities are providing results on coal water mixture handling and fuel nozzle design, air staging requirements, component metal temperatures, combustor temperature performance, ash deposition rates, and emissions abatement for NOx, SOx, and particulates.Copyright © 1988 by ASME
Response to Melamed et al.: Coding and learning of behavioral sequences – open questions and potential solutions

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Aging and cellular maturation cause changes in ubiquitin-eye lens protein conjugates.

The eye lens is a useful tissue for studying phenomena related to aging since it can be separated into differentially aged or matured zones. This work establishes correlations between ubiquitin-lens protein conjugating capabilities and age, as well as the stage of maturation of bovine lens tissue. When exogenous 125I-ubiquitin was combined with supernatants of epithelial (least mature), cortex, and core (most mature) tissue, ATP-dependent conjugation of 125I-ubiquitin to lens proteins was most effective with the epithelial tissue preparation. Conjugate formation was greatest when lenses were obtained from young animals. Supernatants from cultured bovine lens epithelial (BLE) cells conjugated more 125I-ubiquitin to lens proteins than any tissue preparation. In all cases the predominant conjugates formed in these cell-free assays were of high molecular mass, although conjugates with masses in the 25-70 kDa range were also observed. Lens tissue and cultured BLE cell preparations were also probed with antibodies to ubiquitin to detect in vivo ubiquitin-lens protein conjugates. There was more free ubiquitin and ubiquitin conjugates in tissue from young as compared with older lenses. The greatest levels of conjugates were observed in cultured BLE cells. Specificity in the ubiquitination system is indicated since some of the conjugates formed in vivo appear identical to those formed in the cell-free assays and in reticulocytes using exogenous 125I-ubiquitin. Upon development and maturation of lens tissue (i.e., core as opposed to epithelium), there is accumulation of lower molecular mass conjugates.
Linear fracture mechanics, fracture transition, and fracture control

Abstract As an analysis viewpoint, fracture mechanics treats the leading edge of a crack as a line disturbance zone in a manner similar to the treatment of dislocation lines in dislocation mechanics. Linear fracture mechanics analysis is adequate for most practical applications and permits estimates of two new length factors: the approximate size of the plastic zone, 2rY, and the crack border opening displacement, δ = ℷ/σ Y . Studies of crack extension behaviors as a function of the stress field parameters K and ℷ, and their interpretation with the assistance of length factors, have clarified general understanding of fracture in ways which impinge strongly on various fields of investigation such as stress corrosion cracking, fatigue, brittle transition temperature, and fracture control methods. As an example, the paper discusses interpretation of the brittle-ductile transition in terms of relative plastic zone size, and allowable-load estimates which include fracture strength in a rational way. Fracture control methods which do not rely on prior fracture failure experience are needed for new structures now under consideration. Correspondingly, the need for training and experience in fracture mechanics is urgent.
Introducing a problem-based unit into a lifespan nutrition class using a randomized design produces equivocal outcomes

Abstract Problem-based learning (PBL) is a tutorial, student-centered, problem-driven educational strategy adopted by medical and allied health educators to positively influence self-directed learning, critical thinking, and learning behavior. PBL was examined in dietetics education through random assignment of 32 undergraduate dietetics students for two weeks to either a problem-based or a lecture-based case format for the infant and elderly units of a 16-week lifespan nutrition course. Random assignment followed stratification for gender and earlier course examination performance. Expert validation of PBL curricular components and noted differences in discussion structure and information resources verified curriculum distinctiveness. Main outcome measures were pre- and post-Cognitive Behavior Survey scores for memorization, reflection, and positive learning experience scales, unit and course evaluations and unit examination scores. Students in problem-based modules demonstrated greater gains in reflective thinking with stable memorization, suggesting improved critical thinking skills. Tenets that problem-based learning promotes knowledge retention and provides a more positive learning experience were not upheld. Knowledge acquisition was not hindered by a problem-based approach. We conclude that gains in reflective thinking and evidence of increased self-directed learning argue for inclusion of PBL in dietetics curricula and that a problem-based education will help dietitians successfully respond to professional development needs. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103:1020-1025.
Immune Evasion by Babesia bovis and Plasmodium falciparum: Cliff-dwellers of the Parasite World

Erythrocyte-dwelling parasites, such as Babesia bovis and Plasmodium falciparum, are not accessible to the host immune system during most of their asexual reproductive cycle because they are intracellular. While intracellular, the host immune response must be directed toward the surface of the infected erythrocyte. Immune individuals mount protective antibody and cell-mediated responses which eliminate most of the parasites, yet some survive to establish chronic infections. In this review, David Allred discusses some of the mechanisms used by these parasites to evade individual immune mechanisms targeting the infected erythrocyte to survive in the hostile environment of an effective immune response.
Fighting disease with data

Recent advances in genome typing and sequencing technologies have enabled quick generation of a vast amount of molecular data at very low cost. The mining and computational analysis of this type of data can help shape new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in biomedicine.
Determination of portions of the bismuth III–V and IV–V equilibrium boundaries in single-stage piston-cylinder apparatus

Abstract The Bi III–V and IV–V equilibrium boundaries were studied by monitoring electrical resistance changes. Extrapolation of the III–V data to 25°C yields an equilibrium transition pressure of 77.5 ± 1.0 kbar. The extrapolation also agrees within experimental error with the pressure of 78.2 kbar determined in a separate experiment at 22°C. The use of the transition as a calibration point is discussed, and a procedure for estimating the compression-stroke transition pressure from the equilibrium transition pressure is proposed. This involves adding 2 kbar to the equilibrium pressure at room temperature.
Potential for Protein Surface Shape Analysis Using Spherical Harmonics and 3D Zernike Descriptors

With structure databases expanding at a rapid rate, the task at hand is to provide reliable clues to their molecular function and to be able to do so on a large scale. This, however, requires suitable encodings of the molecular structure which are amenable to fast screening. To this end, moment-based representations provide a compact and nonredundant description of molecular shape and other associated properties. In this article, we present an overview of some commonly used representations with specific focus on two schemes namely spherical harmonics and their extension, the 3D Zernike descriptors. Key features and differences of the two are reviewed and selected applications are highlighted. We further discuss recent advances covering aspects of shape and property-based comparison at both global and local levels and demonstrate their applicability through some of our studies.
The improper student

A 'proper' student is defined as one who satisfies the learning goals established by the instructor. An 'improper' student is one who constitutes the majority of a class usually. The proper student, it has been said, does not need an instructor all that much; but it is the improper student who challenges the dedicated teacher and keeps the teacher from becoming bored with the profession. It is noted that these simple distinctions impart an importance to the improper student, an importance reflected in prodigious efforts to reach this particular student. The author presents the characteristics of a simple cycle that is part of the learning process and discusses how the cycle is interrupted for the improper student. The cycle is embedded in a model of the different environments of the teacher and the student. The interruption of the cycle is demonstrated by several examples where numerical data or classroom observations are available to support certain conclusions. These conclusions present a set of constraints that a teacher of technology currently faces regardless of any individual approaches used by the teacher to reach the student. >
A second‐order optimization algorithm using quadric control updates for multistage optimal control problems

This paper describes a trajectory optimization algorithm that generates a quadric control update, which satisfies the constraints and necessary conditions to the second order. The algorithm is designed to solve multistage optimization problems. The algorithm is tested against a commercially available Sequential Quadratic Programming algorithm on problems with linear dynamics and linear and nonlinear constraints. This algorithm is a departure from previous methods because it explicitly satisfies the constraints to the second order. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
School Counselors and Consultants: Legal Duties and Liabilities

This article provides an overview of legal issues and problems salient to school counselors who provide direct services to students or indirect services through consultation. Among legal issues addressed are privacy, confidentiality, and privilege—conceptually distinct topics that in practice often overlap. Also covered are legal duties pertaining to handling student records, conducting research projects, reporting child abuse, and testing and placing students. Among the legal liabilities discussed are those arising from contract, tort, and criminal law and from violations of federal constitutional and statutory rights.
On the Size Distortion from Linearly Interpolating Low-frequency Series for Cointegration Tests

Abstract We analyze the sizes of standard cointegration tests applied to data subject to linear interpolation, discovering evidence of substantial size distortions induced by the interpolation. We propose modifications to these tests to effectively eliminate size distortions from such tests conducted on data interpolated from end-of-period sampled low-frequency series. Our results generally do not support linear interpolation when alternatives such as aggregation or mixed-frequency-modified tests are possible.
A distributed auction algorithm for the assignment problem

The assignment problem constitutes one of the fundamental problems in the context of linear programming. Besides its theoretical significance, its frequent appearance in the areas of distributed control and facility allocation, where the problems? size and the cost for global computation and information can be highly prohibitive, gives rise to the need for local solutions that dynamically assign distinct agents to distinct tasks, while maximizing the total assignment benefit. In this paper, we consider the linear assignment problem in the context of networked systems, where the main challenge is dealing with the lack of global information due to the limited communication capabilities of the agents. We address this challenge by means of a distributed auction algorithm, where the agents are able to bid for the task to which they wish to be assigned. The desired assignment relies on an appropriate selection of bids that determine the prices of the tasks and render them more or less attractive for the agents to bid for. Up to date pricing information, necessary for accurate bidding, can be obtained in a multi-hop fashion by means of local communication between adjacent agents. Our algorithm is an extension to the parallel auction algorithm proposed by Bertsekas et al to the case where only local information is available and it is shown to always converge to an assignment that maximizes the total assignment benefit within a linear approximation of the optimal one.
Autorotating wings: an experimental investigation

The autorotation of a flat plate about its spanwise axis was experimentally studied. Most of the work was done with a wing mounted in a 5 x 7 ft low-speed wind tunnel. The measurements consisted of the unsteady lift, drag, angular acceleration and the wing rotation rate. The flow pattern was very different from that over a static wing. The maximum and average lift, drag and angular acceleration were measured for Reynolds numbers from 25,000 to 250,000. The effect of applying driving and retarding torques to the wing was studied. A variety of wing configurations were tested, together with freely falling wings. For Reynolds numbers above 4000 the average lift and drag coefficients were comparable to those observed in the fixed axis tests, and it appeared that the flow pattern was similar.
Real-Time Thermo-Mechanical and Adhesive Property Evaluation of Thin Films and Multi-Layers

We describe an experimental method useful for in-situ real-time evaluation of visco-elastic, thermal and adhesive properties of thin films and multi-layer structures. We demonstrate how the technique is used to quantify the elastic moduli, and in-plane thermal diffusivity. We also show how it can be used to “spot check” for dis-bonds and to generate dis-bond “maps”.
Practice Patterns and Resource Utilization for Infants with Bladder Exstrophy: A National Perspective

Purpose: Substantial variability exists in bladder exstrophy care, and little is known about costs associated with the condition. We define the care patterns and first year cost for patients with bladder exstrophy at select freestanding pediatric hospitals in the United States.Materials and Methods: We used the Pediatric Health Information System database to identify patients with bladder exstrophy born between January 1999 and December 2010 who underwent primary closure in the first 120 days of life. Demographic, surgical, postoperative and cost data for all encounters were assessed. Multivariate linear regression was used to examine the association between patient, surgeon and hospital characteristics and costs.Results: Of the 381 patients who underwent primary closure within the first 120 days of life 279 (73%) did so within the first 3 days of life. A total of 119 patients (31%) underwent pelvic osteotomy, including 51 of 279 (18%) who underwent closure within the first 3 days of life, 38 of 67 (56%) ...
Progress in the development of human parainfluenza virus vaccines

In children under 5 years of age, human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) as a group are the second most common etiology of acute respiratory illness leading to hospitalization, surpassed only by respiratory syncytial virus but ahead of influenza viruses. Using reverse genetics systems for HPIV serotypes 1, 2 and 3 (HPIV1, 2 and 3), several live-attenuated HPIVs have been generated and evaluated as intranasal vaccines in adults and in children. Two vaccines against HPIV3 were found to be well tolerated, infectious and immunogenic in Phase I trials in HPIV3-seronegative infants and children and should progress to proof-of-concept trials. Vaccines against HPIV1 and HPIV2 are less advanced and have just entered pediatric trials.
Performance evaluation of block-based motion estimation algorithms and distortion measures

Motion estimation is an important component in video compression schemes, which impacts the encoder performance and the quality of the reconstructed video sequence. Block-based techniques are the most popular among the several motion estimation techniques used in practice due to their simplicity allowing efficient hardware implementations. The quality of motion predicted frame and the speed of motion vector computation are the primary measures of performance of motion estimation schemes. The video compression standards only specify the syntax of the bitstream and not any specifics of the motion estimation techniques. Thus, the knowledge of the workings and performance of commonly used motion estimation schemes would facilitate development of better schemes or choosing a particular one for a given application. We present the results of performance evaluation of combinations of several commonly used block-based motion estimation algorithms and distortion measures.