cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Two maize genes are each targeted predominantly by distinct classes of Mu elements

The Mutator transposable element system of maize has been used to isolate mutations at many different genes. Six different classes of Mu transposable elements have been identified. An important question is whether particular classes of Mu elements insert into different genes at equivalent frequencies. To begin to address this question, we used a small number of closely related Mutator plants to generate multiple independent mutations at two different genes. The overall mutation frequency was similar for the two genes. We then determined what types of Mu elements inserted into the genes. We found that each of the genes was preferentially targeted by a different class of Mu element, even when the two genes were mutated in the same plant. Possible explanations for these findings are discussed. These results have important implications for cloning Mu-tagged genes as other genes may also be resistant or susceptible to the insertion of particular classes of Mu elements.
Characterization of endothelin secretion by vascular endothelial cells.

The characterization of mechanisms that regulate ET-LP secretion from bovine adrenal cortical capillary endothelial cells (ACE) in culture was performed by developing radioimmunoassays that distinguish between ET1–21 (AbET1–21) and ET1–39 (AbET1–39). The conditioned media (DMEM) content of ET-like immunoreactivity (ET1–21LI) increased from 50 to 350 pg/ml over a 24 h period. Addition of 10% calf serum or 0.1% BSA enhanced ET1–21LI release 2–3 fold. Authenticity of ET1–21LI was examined using reversed phase liquid chromatography. All ET1–21LI co-eluted with authentic ET-1. Examination of ET1–39IR by liquid chromatography revealed two peaks of immunoreactivity, one co-eluting with authentic ET22–39 and a later running peak co-eluting with authentic ET1–39. Neither ET1–21LI nor ET1–39LI was detected in the extracts of sonicated ACE cells. Treatment of cells with various forms of TGFβ significantly augmented ET1–21LI release. These data suggest that ACE secretion of ET-LP in vitro occurs spontaneously and can be enhanced by TGFβ. Since neither ET1–21LI nor ET1–39LI was detectable in ACE cells it is unlikely that ET-LP are stored prior to their secretion.
HIGH LEFT VENTRICULAR EJECTION FRACTION IS ASSOCIATED WITH WORSE OUTCOMES IN PATIENTS WITH AND WITHOUT HEART FAILURE

Patients with low LV ejection fraction (LVEF) are known to have worse mortality compared to those with preserved LVEF. However, it is unclear if the benefit of higher LVEF extends to those with very high LVEF values. We investigated the relationship between high LVEF (≥70%) and outcomes. We
Isomerization of the Prenucleation Building Unit during Crystallization of AlPO4-CJ2: An MQMAS, CP-MQMAS, and HETCOR NMR Study

The structure of AlPO4-CJ2 aluminophosphate has been reinvestigated by MAS, MQMAS (multiple quantum magic angle spinning), CP-MQMAS (cross polarization-MQMAS), and HETCOR (heteronuclear correlation) NMR spectroscopy. The CP-MQMAS method showed that the sample, when not allowed adequate time for crystallization, included a substantial concentration of amorphous species. The crystalline component was cleanly singled out by this technique. We discuss the relative populations and the distributions of F and OH groups within the structural building units (SBUs) and the distribution of various SBUs within the crystalline structure of AlPO4-CJ2. For the latter case, a mixture of SBUs is demonstrated from the 19F → 31P HETCOR spectrum. Prenucleation building units (PNBUs) are the principal objects used for efficient crystal formation. They may undergo an isomerization to reach the proper configuration to integrate into the solid network. The isomerization implies formation of a bridge within the PNBU, probably at ...
Intracellular Events in the “Selective” Transport of Lipoprotein-derived Cholesteryl Esters

The current study utilizes human, apoE-free high density lipoprotein reconstituted with a highly specific fluorescent-cholesteryl ester probe to define the initial steps and regulatory sites associated with the "selective" uptake and intracellular itinerary of lipoprotein-derived cholesteryl esters. Bt2cAMP-stimulated ovarian granulosa cells were used as the experimental model, and both morphological and biochemical fluorescence data were obtained. The data show that cholesteryl ester provided through the selective pathway is a process which begins with a temperature-independent transfer of cholesteryl ester to the cell's plasma membrane. Thereafter transfer of the lipid proceeds rapidly and accumulates prominently in a perinuclear region (presumed to be the Golgi/membrane sorting compartment) and in lipid storage droplets of the cells. The data suggest that lipid transfer proteins (or other small soluble proteins) are not required for the intracellular transport of the cholesteryl esters, nor is an intact Golgi complex or an intact cell cytoskeleton (although the transfer is less efficient in the presence of certain microtubule-disrupting agents). The intracellular transfer of the cholesteryl esters is also somewhat dependent on an energy source in that a glucose-deficient culture medium or a combination of metabolic inhibitors reduces the efficiency of the transfer. A protein-mediated event may be required for cholesteryl ester internalization from the plasma membrane, in that N-ethylmaleimide dramatically blocks the internalization phase of the selective uptake process. Taken together these data suggest that the selective pathway is a factor-dependent, energy-requiring cholesteryl ester transport system, in which lipoprotein-donated cholesteryl esters probably flow through vesicles or intracellular membrane sheets and their connections, rather than through the cell cytosol.
Latitudinal distributions of trace gases in and above the boundary layer

Statistical analyses of global atmospheric concentrations provide evidence that C2Cl4, CHCl3 and CH3CCl3 (methylchloroform) are more abundant in the tropical boundary layer than above it (α ⩽ 0.09) by 27% (±27%), 21% (−21%, +12%) and 6.4% (±6%) respectively. The air samples on which these results are based were collected by cryogenic techniques during the June 1978 project GAMETAG flights and analyzed soon afterwards by gas chromatography (EC/GC and GC/FID), thus providing latitudinal concentrations of CO, CH4, CCl3F, CCl2F2, CH3CCl3 and light C2-hydrocarbons, both in and above the boundary layer. In August 1980, after further development of analytical techniques, the stored air samples were re-analyzed to establish the latitudinal distributions of CH3I, CHCl3, C2Cl4, C2F3Cl3 (F-113) and CHClF2 (F-22) in and above the boundary layer. Stability studies, spanning a year, show that the concentrations of these gases do not change in the flasks.
Men's Liberation and the Men's Movement: Implications for Counselors

This article briefly describes some of the changes in men that are a result of “men's liberation” and examines some of the evidence for the Men's Movement, a network of men and women across the United States and Western Europe that is a counterpart to the Women's Movement. The article also explores some of the implications of men's liberation and the Men's Movement for counselors who work with men wishing to change, especially in terms of developing partnerships as equals with women.
Practical convergence conditions for the Davidon-Fletcher-Powell method

The convergence properties of the Davidon-Fletcher-Powell method when applied to the minimization of convex functions are considered for the case where the one-dimensional minimization required at each iteration is not solved exactly. Conditions on the error incurred at each iteration are given which are sufficient for the original method to have a linear or superlinear rate of convergence, and for the restarted version to have ann-step quadratic rate of convergence.
Stresses and duration of cellular contact

Abstract A significant factor in the bonding of cells is the relationship of elastic properties of the cells. With an assigned contact force, a cell which has a high modulus of elasticity develops high contact stresses of short duration. Cells with low moduli develop small stresses, and they have contacts of relatively long duration.
Radiologic findings of adult primary immunodeficiency disorders : contribution of CT

Study objective: We wished to review the chest radiographic and computed tomographic (CT) findings in adults with primary immunodeficiency disorders, and to evaluate the influence of CT on the treatment of these patients. Design: Retrospective blinded review of radiographs, CT scans, and clinical data. Setting: National referral center for immunodeficiency disorders. Patients: Forty-six chest radiographs and 22 CT examinations of subjects with primary immunodeficiency disorders were independently scored. Nineteen of the subjects who had CT scans had B-cell deficiency, while 3 had T-cell deficiency. Results: CT-detected bronchiectasis in 15 of 19 subjects with B-cell deficiency, compared with 7 cases detected on chest radiograph. Unsuspected upper lobe bronchiectasis was found on CT in 15 cases. Other CT findings in this group included small nodules in seven subjects, interstitial lines in four, air trapping in seven, ground glass or parenchymal consolidation in nine, evidence of small airways disease in nine, and mucus plugs in four. Two of the three subjects with T-cell disorders showed cavitation and two had unsuspected reactive mediastinal adenopathy. Clinical management appeared to be altered in five subjects with B-cell deficiency by CT findings of severe focal or diffuse bronchiectasis or small airways disease. Additionally, CT localized the bleeding site in three subjects with hemoptysis. Conclusions: CT is valuable for detection of bronchiectasis in subjects with B-cell immunodeficiency and may alter treatment of these patients.
An acoustic emission investigation of microscopic ductile fracture

A high-strength 4340 steel fracture-toughness specimen was heat treated to give a ductile-rupture type of slow crack growth under rising load. For evaluation of the step-wise growth process, the specimen was instrumented with acoustic stress wave emission (SWE) detection equipment. The resulting crack area swept out by the advancing crack was correlated to the magnitude and number of the acoustic emission pulses. A crack growth model was developed which accounts for the direct relationship between crack area swept out and the sum of the individual SWE amplitudes, and for the experimentally observed bimodal distribution of the SWE amplitudes. The model postulates that slow crack growth takes place in a step-wise mechanism. This involves a repeated two-step process where the first step is the formation of a multitude of individual thumbnail cracks and the second step is the simultaneous interconnection of these thumbnail cracks to form a new continuous crack front.
Sex determination and primary sex differentiation in amphibians: Genetic and developmental mechanisms

Most amphibians lack morphologically distinguishable sex chromosomes, but a number of experimental techniques have shown that amphibian sex determination is controlled genetically. The few studies suggesting that environment influences sex determination in amphib- ians have all been conducted at temperatures outside of the range normally experienced by the species under study, and these effects probably do not occur under natural conditions. No sex- determining genes have been described in amphibians, and sex differentiation can be altered by treatment with exogenous steroid hormones. The effects of sex steroids vary extensively between species, and a variety of steroids can alter the sex ratios of treated larvae. The role of endogenous sex steroids in gonadal differentiation has not been fully explored; thus the natural role of ste- roids in amphibian gonadal differentiation is unknown. Sex steroid receptors have not been exam- ined in amphibian gonads, and the mechanism of steroid action on the gonad is unclear. In addition to steroids, the thyroid hormones may play a role in gonadal differentiation. Pituitary gonado- trop(h)ins affect gonadal growth, but not differentiation or maturation of gonads. In addition to the issue of resolving the mechanisms underlying hormone action in gonadal differ- entiation, other debates concerning interactions between the developing gonads and the invading germ cells, and even the origin of the medullary and cortical portions of the developing gonads, remain unresolved. Studies examining links between sex determination and gonadal differentiation are needed. In addition, examinations of variation in steroidal effects on gonadal development in a phylogenetic context are lacking. J. Exp. Zool. 281:373n399, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Amphibians are excellent models to study sex differentiation, for a number of reasons. Genetic sex-determining systems and sex chromosomes have evolved a number of times in this class, and gonadal differentiation (although under genetic control) is responsive to experimental manipula- tions. In addition, as laboratory animals, amphib- ians are ideal; because females produce up to 10,000 eggs per clutch in some species, large sample sizes can be obtained. Also, large num- bers of individuals can be treated easily in ex- perimental manipulations because larvae are typically aquatic and readily absorb hormones and other chemicals added to rearing water. Despite their accessibility as study animals, relatively few recent studies have addressed sex determination and differentiation in amphibians. 1
A microfluidic in vitro system for the quantitative study of the stomach mucus barrier function

In the stomach, a layer of gastric mucus protects the epithelial cells of the stomach wall against damage by the acidic digestive juices in the gastric lumen. Despite considerable research, the biophysical mechanisms for this acid barrier are not understood. We present an in vitro microfluidic tool to characterize the stomach acid barrier, in which purified mucin polymers are "secreted" against an acidic zone on chip, mimicking the in vivo secretion of gastric mucus into an acidic stomach lumen. This device reconstitutes both the H(+) concentration gradient and outward flow environment of the mucus layer in vivo. Our experiments demonstrate that a continuously secreted mucin layer hinders acid diffusion, suggesting novel insights into the barrier role of mucins. More broadly, our system may serve as a platform tool for studying the barrier functions provided by mucus layers in the body and for studying mucus drug interactions.
Applying data models to big data architectures

A key message from the early adopters of big data is that technologies such as Hadoop®, NoSQL (Not Only Structured Query Language) databases, and stream computing should not be seen as completely separate technologies but are more valuable when deployed in conjunction with more traditional data management components. There is an urgent need for an overall blueprint for treating both the new and traditional data management components in a holistic and integrated manner. A models-driven approach ensures consistency across this data management landscape in terms of management, governance, and efficiency. This paper focuses on the data modeling considerations relating the big data deployment using the examples of transaction data and mixed unstructured data to ensure that data components are evolved to maximize business value and development efficiencies.
Vitamin D and mucosal immune function.

Purpose of review Significant advances have been made in the characterization of Vitamin D and the Vitamin D receptor (VDR) in immune function. The studies of signaling pathways involved in the response to infection and inflammation have led to a more detailed understanding of the cellular response to Vitamin D through VDR. This review summarizes recent progress in understanding how Vitamin D contributes to mucosal immune function, particularly in relation to the molecular mechanisms by which Vitamin D and VDR influence mucosal immunity, bacterial infection, and inflammation.
Exploring decision processes in multi-agent automated contracting

We are interested in multi-agent contracting, in which customers must solicit the resources and capabilities of other, self-interested agents in order to accomplish their goals. Goals may involve the execution of multi-step plans, in which different steps are contracted out to different suppliers. We have developed a testbed that can generate sets of plans with known statistical attributes, formulate and submit requests for quotations, generate bids with well-defined statistics, and evaluate those bids according to a number of criteria.
The generalized Leontief input-output model and its application to the choice of new technology

The Leontief input-output model is generalized and formulated as a generalized linear complementarity problem. Conditions for existence of solutions are given, and solution techniques are reviewed. An application of the model to choosing new technologies is suggested.
Observations of binaries with the NPOI

We present the results of Navy Prototype Optical Interferometer observations of the binary stars θ2 Tauri and HR7955. These data are reduced using standard methods, as well as coherent integration, and were fitted using three different methods to measure the separation and position angle of the components, and their magnitude differences. We used the traditional technique of fitting the V2's, triple amplitudes and triple phases, we also fitted the baseline phases obtained through coherent integration, and measured the separation of the components directly on images reconstructed using complex visibilities and phase self calibration. We find that fitting baseline phases produces the highest precision. The results obtained from imaging are similar to these, although with higher uncertainties, while the traditional method has the lowest precision. We attribute this result to the fact that the traditional method combines multiple measurements, e.g. triple phases, thus increasing the errors and reducing the amount of information that can be fitted. We also obtain a preliminary fit to the orbit of HR7955.
Artificial Muscles Based on Electroactive Polymers as an Enabling Tool in Biomimetics

Evolution has resolved many of nature's challenges leading to working and lasting solutions that employ principles of physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering, materials science, and many other fields of science and engineering. Nature's inventions have always inspired human achievements leading to effective materials, structures, tools, mechanisms, processes, algorithms, methods, systems, and many other benefits. Some of the technologies that have emerged include artificial intelligence, artificial vision, and artificial muscles, where the latter is the moniker for electroactive polymers (EAPs). To take advantage of these materials and make them practical actuators, efforts are made worldwide to develop capabilities that are critical to the field infrastructure. Researchers are developing analytical model and comprehensive understanding of EAP materials response mechanism as well as effective processing and characterization techniques. The field is still in its emerging state and robust materials are still not readily available; however, in recent years, significant progress has been made and commercial products have already started to appear. In the current paper, the state-of-the-art and challenges to artificial muscles as well as their potential application to biomimetic mechanisms and devices are described and discussed.
Protective Action of Cysteinamine ( -Mercaptoethylamine) Against X-Irradiation-Induced Sterility in CF1 Male Mice.

Cysteinamine, when administered prior to x irradiation, has been shown to be very effective in increasing percentage of survival of CF1 mice given otherwise lethal doses of x rays. It is also capable of preventing transient sterility in male mice during first 2 or 3 months following x irradiation given to whole body or to testes alone.
Brit bits: computer science in British further education

The recent introduction of the accreditation scheme for undergraduate computer science programs has prompted increasing discussion of the curriculum within the academic computing community. Various curriculum models have been proposed. This paper describes one of the national, standardized computer science curriculum syllabi used in further education colleges in Britain at “A-level”. This 2-year program is equivalent to 16 semester hours in an American college and covers a computer science core similar to that proposed in the ACM “curriculum '78”. It provides an interesting standardized model which is actually implemented in schools across Britain.*
Modulation of nocioceptive transmission with calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists in the thalamus

Calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists are effective acute migraine treatments without the vascular contraindications associated with triptans. While it has been demonstrated that calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists act in the central nervous system, their effects in preclinical migraine models have been investigated in only the trigeminocervical complex. Migraine is a complex neurological disorder; sites in the brainstem and forebrain are clearly involved in its expression. We have performed electrophysiological recordings in thalamic neurons of rats responding to nocioceptive trigeminovascular inputs and tested the effect of olcegepant, a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist (1 mg/kg, intravenously), on cell firing. We further tested the effect of microiontophoresed calcitonin gene-related peptide and the receptor antagonists calcitonin gene-related peptide 8-37 and olcegepant on thalamic cell firing, elicited by stimulation of the superior sagittal sinus or by microiontophoretic application of l-glutamate. Additionally, we used immunofluorescent staining to demonstrate the presence of functional calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors in the ventroposteromedial thalamic nucleus by specifically co-staining for the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor subunits calcitonin receptor-like receptor and receptor activity modifying protein 1. Intravenously administered olcegepant significantly inhibited cell firing evoked by stimulation of the superior sagittal sinus as well as the background activity. Microiontophoresis of calcitonin gene-related peptide 8-37 also showed a significant inhibition of l-glutamate-evoked cell firing and firing evoked by stimulation of the superior sagittal sinus. Immunofluorescent staining confirmed the presence of the components of a functional calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor, the calcitonin receptor-like receptor and the receptor activity modifying protein 1, within the area of the ventroposteromedial thalamic nucleus. This is the first report on the efficacy of calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists at the level of third-order neurons in the migraine pathway, showing that the central effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists extend beyond the trigeminocervical complex at least to the sensory thalamus.
Improving Government Performance

E ven in the best of times, government performance is subject to criticism, and although much of it is unfair, vague, and even contrived, inevitably, a certain proportion is justified, provable, and downright harmful. That is why the administrative history of large-scale governments is littered with official inquiries (government appointed), unofficial inquiries (privately appointed), and semiofficial inquiries (government supported but independent)-all conducting inquests on why government performance is failing or falling short of its potential and proposing radical changes in government operations to improve future performance.
Tansley Review No. 110: Numerical and physical properties of orchid seeds and their biological implications

Orchid seeds are very small, extremely light and produced in great numbers. Most range in length from c. 0.05 to 6.0 mm, with the difference between the longest and shortest known seeds in the family being 120-fold. The 'widest' seed at 0.9 mm is 90-fold wider than the 'thinnest' one, which measures 0.01 mm (because orchid seeds are tubular or balloon-like, 'wide' and 'thin' actually refer to diameter). Known seed weights extend from 0.31 lg to 24 μg (a 78-fold difference). Recorded numbers of seeds per fruit are as high as 4000000 and as low as 20-50 (80000-200000-fold difference). Testae are usually transparent, with outer cell walls that may be smooth or reticulated. Ultrasonic treatments enhance germination, which suggests that the testae can be restrictive. Embryos are even smaller: their volume is substantially smaller than that of the testa. As a result, orchid seeds have large internal air spaces that render them balloon-like. They can float in the air for long periods, a property that facilitates long-distance dispersal. The difficult-to-wet outer surfaces of the testa and large internal air spaces enable the seeds to float on water for prolonged periods. This facilitates distribution through tree effluates and/or small run-off rivulets that may follow rains. Due to their size and characteristics, orchid seeds may also be transported in and on land animals and birds (in fur, feathers or hair, mud on feet, and perhaps also following ingestion). contents Summary 367 I. Introduction 367 II. Number 368 III. Size 379 IV. Air space in the seeds 381 V. Floatation and dispersal 383 VI. Conclusions 417 Acknowledgements 417 References 418.
Spectroscopic strengths for 6Li-induced alpha-particle transfers on 24Mg

Abstract 24 Mg( 6 Li, d) angular distributions for transitions to low-lying states in 28 Si are well fitted by exact finite-range DWBA calculations and yield relative spectroscopic strengths in good agreement with theoretical predictions as well as with the corresponding results from other α-particle transfer reactions.
Intelligent pattern recognition and biometrics

This talk deals with advanced concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and pattern recognition (PR), and their applications to solving real life problems including biometrics applications. It basically covers the following topics: (1) Overview of pattern recognition (PR),(2) Overview of artificial intelligence (AI),(3) the relation between PR and AI, (4) Analysis and learning: pattern recognition concept : foundation and theories, (5) Importance of ambiguity, and its applications: theory and applications, (6) An overall Interactive intelligent pattern recognition (IPR) system, (7) Concepts of syntax, semantics, and pragmatics: theories and applications, (8) Importance of ambiguity, and semantics: graphics and its applications, (9) How it works: IPR and applications to solving real life problems including biometrics and face recognition, (10)some more Illustrations, discussions and future directions.
Identification of defect sites on SiO2 thin films grown on Mo(112)

SiO2 thin films on Mo(112) have been characterized using metastable impact electron and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopies (MIES and UPS). The electronic properties of SiO2 thin films with a thickness of 0.7−0.8 nm are identical to those of bulk SiO2. For defective SiO2 surfaces prepared by three different ways (synthesis without an anneal, e-beam bombardment, and Si-deposition), additional features are observed in the band gap using MIES that are consistent with theoretical predictions of additional occupied states in the band gap of SiO2 due to vacancies or excess oxygen. In contrast, UPS did not show any changes within the band gap in the presence of these defects. Extended defect sites on SiO2 are identified using MIES/UPS by a narrowing of the O(2P) features with a reduction in the density of extended defect sites. MIES spectra for adsorbed Xe (MAX) are also used to estimate the density of extended defect sites.
Reactivity of Fe0 Atoms, Clusters, and Nanoparticles with CCl4 Multilayers on FeO(111)

The interaction of Fe0 atoms and clusters with CCl4 multilayers was investigated using a novel “atom dropping” method at 30 K over a FeO(111) thin film. Temperature programmed desorption experiments over a range of Fe0 and CCl4 coverages demonstrate a rich surface chemistry with several reaction products (C2Cl4, C2Cl6, OCCl2, CO, FeCl2, and FeCl3) observed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data show that the initial reactive interaction occurs spontaneously at 30 K, with the experimentally observed reaction products formed at higher temperature, in agreement with the results of theoretical calculations. The formation of OCCl2 and CO is concluded to occur through abstraction of O atoms from the generally inert FeO(111) substrate. The buffer layer assisted growth technique is used to show that the reactivity, and interestingly the reaction products, are determined by the size of Fe0 nanoparticles which interact with CCl4.
Comprehensive modelling of pulverized coal combustion in a vortex combustor

This paper presents a comprehensive numerical modelling of the strongly swirling gas-particle turbulent flow and pulverized coal combustion in a novel vortex combustor (VC) recently developed for commercial heating applications. A comprehensive two-dimensional coal combustion model is developed which incorporates a new algebraic Reynolds stress turbulence model (ASM). The numerical results for an 88 kW coal fired VC describe the detailed characteristics of the gas-particle flow and combustion in terms of gas velocities, turbulence quantities, temperature, species concentrations, particle density, trajectories, burnout time and residence time, which are important to the design and operation of the VC.
Disorders of higher cerebral function in preschool children. Second of two parts.

AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS Autism is no more a disease than dysphasia or dyslexia, it is a syndrome or symptom-complex of brain dysfunction that may have any one of multiple etiologies (eg, congenital rubella, untreated phenylketonuria, tuberous sclerosis, fragile-X). 27 In most cases the etiology is unknown. There are some families in whom it seems to appear as a genetic trait. It affects four boys to every girl. A recent report indicates that autism in some but not all autistic boys without severe mental deficiency is associated with hypoplasia of lobules VI and VII of the cerebellar vermis. 28 The significance of this finding remains to be clarified. The core symptoms of autism, those that make one call a child autistic whatever his IQ, other symptoms, and skills, have to do with affect, socialization and communication, and play (Table 6). 29 Therefore, other symptoms, for example, sensorimotor abnormalities, aberrant attention, and
Silver Flip-Chip Technology by Solid-State Bonding

Silver flip-chip joints between silicon (Si) chips and copper (Cu) substrates were fabricated using a solid-state bonding process without any solder and without flux. The bonding process was performed at 250°C, compatible with typical reflow temperature for lead-free solders. During the bonding process, there was no molten phase involved. The Ag joints fabricated consisted of only pure Ag without any intermetallic compound (IMC). Thus, reliability issues associated with IMCs and IMC growth do not exist anymore. Silver has the highest electrical conductivity and highest thermal conductivity among all metals. It is also quite ductile and able to deform to release stresses caused by thermal expansion mismatch. Flip-chip joints of high aspect ratio can be accomplished because the joints stay in a solid state during the bonding process. It looks like that silver is the ultimate joining material for flip-chip as well as through-Si-via interconnect technologies. In this study, the solid-state bonding process was first developed using a pure Ag foil to bond a Si chip to a Cu substrate in one step. The bonding strength on two interfaces, SilAg and Ag/Cu, passes the MIL-STD-883G Method 2019.7. To demonstrate Ag flip-chip interconnects, Si chips were electroplated with Ag bumps, followed by the solid-state bonding process on Cu substrates. The flip-chip bumps are well bonded to the Cu substrate. It would take some time for this new technology to be probably accepted and utilized in production. On the other hand, the preliminary results in this study show that Ag flip-chip joints can indeed be fabricated at 250°C.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Malignant Esophageal Lesions

The incidence of esophageal cancer has been increasing while the prognosis remains very poor. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was developed in Japan for en bloc resection of early gastric cancer with excellent results. The use of ESD in early squamous cell cancer (SCC) of the esophagus in Japan has been increasing with long-term results comparable to those in early gastric cancer. The use of ESD in Barrett’s neoplasia in western countries has been challenged by the low complete resection rates and the risk of metachronous lesions from surrounding non-dysplastic Barrett’s epithelium. Efforts to combine ESD with other treatment modalities such as radiofrequency ablation in Barrett’s neoplasia and chemoradiation in SCC appear to be promising. The use of steroid therapy (local or systemic) has been demonstrated to prevent post-ESD stenosis, which is the most common complication after esophageal ESD.
Lie group and invariant solutions of the plane-strain equations of motion of a neo-Hookean solid

The full Lie group associated with the equations of motion of the neo-Hookean material in plane strain is reported and the invariant solutions corresponding to the one- and two-parameter subgroups are studied. Closed form solutions of the non-linear partial differential equations are constructed.
From Audience Member to Citizen: TYA Scripts, Ideology, and Communitas

For many years, in my roles as a theatre for young audiences (TYA) researcher, playwright, and dramaturg, I have been fascinated by the breadth of material produced for the stage with young people ...
Characterisation of RF propagation in metal pipes for passive RFID systems

In this paper we extend the theory of Radio Frequency (RF) propagation as it relates to propagation within metal circular pipes. This work is motivated by a need to understand the operation of UHF Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) systems when the tags are placed within the pipes. These circular pipes are shown to be similar to metal tube waveguides which are hollow. We derive the Bessel function that is used to identify the propagation constants, the different transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes, cut-off frequencies and the multimode attenuation. These parameters are used within the theory to identify operating limitations of passive RFID systems in hollow metal pipes. A comprehensive general theory is developed to enumerate the workings of passive RFID systems in circular metal pipes. Analytical evaluations are used to visualise the tags within the metal pipes and to validate the theory presented in this paper.
Self-Reflexivity in the Formulation of Autonomy: An Appeal from Feminist Cultural Studies

Felsen and Reiner (2011) argue that the definition of autonomy in ethics must be reconsidered to reflect neuroscientific findings, particularly where the roles of emotion and external influence in ...
Intravascular ultrasound findings after excimer laser coronary angioplasty.

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) was used to study 104 lesions in 98 patients after excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA). Lesion site external elastic membrane (EEM) and lumen cross-sectional areas (CSA) were measured; plaque + media (P + M = EEM − lumen) CSA and percentage of cross-sectional narrowing (CSN = P + M CSA/EEM CSA) were calculated; and the results were compared to a reference site. The lumen CSA (2.6 ± 1.0 mm2) averaged 24% larger than the cross-sectional area of the largest laser catheter used, and 64 lesions (62%) fit the definition of arterial expansion (lesion EEM CSA > reference site EEM CSA). The residual percentage of cross-sectional narrowing averaged 83.8 ± 8.8%. Dissections were present in 44% of lesions, and were more common in lesions with superficial calcium (59%) than in lesions with only deep calcium (31%) or no calcium (20%, P = 0.0102). Dissections of superficial calcified plaque had an unusual “shattered” or “fragmented” appearance. These findings suggest that excimer laser angioplasty causes forced vessel expansion with dissection, but limited atheroablation. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Isolation and structure assignment of an iminotetrasaccharide from a cultured filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp.

In search of bioactive metabolites in cultured microalgae, a novel acylated iminopseudotetrasaccharide was isolated from a filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp., and its structure was established by NMR, chemical degradation, and X-ray crystallography. The compound consists of glucose, glucuronic acid, arabinose, and 1,4,6-trideoxy-1,4-imino-d-allitol, which is closely related to potent glucosidase inhibitors such as nojirimycin. The tetrasaccharide itself showed moderate inhibitory activity against β-d-glucuronidase.
CD56 IDENTIFIES MONOCYTES AND NOT NATURAL KILLER CELLS IN RHESUS MACAQUES

Background: CD56 is a lineage-specific marker of human natural killer (NK) cells. There are conflicts in the literature regarding the role of CD56 as a marker of NK cells in non-human primates. In the present study, we examined the role of CD56 in identifying rhesus NK cells. Methods: The immunophenotype of normal macaque and human NK cells was analyzed by two- and three-color flow cytometry. Flow cytometric cell sorting was subsequently used to deplete or purify NK cells; the resulting cell populations were then used in standard chromium release assays of NK lytic function. Results: In peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the rhesus macaque, CD56 was expressed primarily on cells with the light scatter and immunophenotypic profile of monocytes. Flow cytometric depletion of rhesus CD56+ monocytic cells did not diminish functional activity against K562 cells, whereas depletion of CD8+ or CD16+ lymphocytes completely abrogated functional activity. Three-color flow cytometric analysis of CD8+, CD16+ lymphocytes showed that they expressed other markers (CD2, CD7, TIA-1) associated with NK cells, but notably, not CD56. Conclusions: These studies demonstrate that CD56 is not suitable as a marker of NK cells in the rhesus macaque. Cytometry 37:41–50, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Activation of Inhibitory G Protein Catalyzed by GPCR: Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Activated Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor/Gαi1β1γ2 Protein Complex

The GPCR signaling cascade via the G protein pathway begins with an agonist binding to an inactive GPCR, causing conformational changes that activate the GPCR. Previously, we used molecular dynamics simulations to study the activation of the CB2 receptor (a Class A GPCR), by the endogenous ligand, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) via the lipid bilayer (Hurst et al., 2010). In the next step of our study of the G-protein signaling cascade, we studied G-protein activation by an activated GPCR. In this step, GDP is released via the separation of the Gαi1 ras-like and helical domains of (Van Eps et al., 2011). To this end, we used our 2-AG activated CB2 model to produce an initial 2-AG/CB2/Gαi1β1γ2 complex based on the crystal structure of β2 adrenoreceptor in complex with Gαsβ1γ2 (Rasmussen et al., 2011). The complex was immersed in a fully hydrated 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) bilayer and NPT NAMD2 (Phillips et al., 2005) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were initiated for four different trajectories of this system. Results from our longest MD simulation (3μs) suggest that the C-terminal α5 helix of Gαi prefers a different orientation in the CB2 activated receptor relative to the orientation seen in the empty state (GDP-GTP less) β2 adrenoreceptor/Gαsβ1γ2 complex. Initial hydrophobic interactions between P139 on CB2 intracellular loop 2 (IC-2 loop) and a hydrophobic pocket on Gαi consisting of residues V34 (N terminus); F336, T340, I343 and I344 (C terminus); L194 (β1-sheet); and F196 (β2-sheet) stabilize the receptor / Gαi1 protein interface during the first 0.5μs of the simulation. Later, between 1.4 - 1.6 μs, electrostatic interactions between R229 (CB2 IC-3 loop) and Q304/E308 (Gαi1 α4 helix) facilitate hydration of GDP. [Support: RO1 DA003934 and KO5 DA021358 (PHR)].
Factor analysis of an Outcome Interview for use in clinical trials of traumatically brain-injured patients: A preliminary study

Objective: To study the factor structure, internal consistency, concurrent validity, and sensitivity to detect change in patient report of problems of a structured interview in relationship with accepted outcome measures. Design: Outcome status of patients with severe traumatic brain injury participating in a randomized, phase III, multicenter clinical trial was assessed at 6 mo postinjury using the Glasgow Outcome Scale, the Disability Rating Scale, and the Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Outcome Interview. Results: Exploratory factor analysis of the Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Outcome Interview produced a meaningful five-factor model: (1) activities of daily living; (2) cognitive; (3) affective; (4) behavioral; and (5) instrumental activities of daily living. The internal consistency of the factors ranged from moderate (0.61 instrumental activities of daily living) to high (0.94 activities of daily living); the interfactor correlations were moderate. The summed factor scores were significantly correlated with measures of global outcome: the Glasgow Outcome Scale (r = 0.66; P < 0.0001) and the Disability Rating Scale (r = 0.61; P < 0.0001). Patient report of cognitive problems correlated moderately with the neuropsychological tests. The summed factor scores were sensitive to change over time. Conclusions: Overall, the interview assessed the major important features of outcome pertinent to traumatic brain injury and demonstrated greater sensitivity to subtle changes over time than the unidimensional approaches, such as the Glasgow Outcome Scale and Disability Rating Scale.
Analysis of Equine Thoracic Fluid

Summary Eighteen clinically normal horses were used to study the characteristics of normal thoracic fluid. Thoracic fluid was obtained from each horse and was found to be similar to equine abdominal fluid. Total leukocytes averaged 3994/μl, total protein 1.8 g/dl, and specific gravity 1.015. Analysis of thoracic fluid from 16 horses with clinical signs of thoracic disease showed abnormalities in every case. Thoracic fluid analysis alone determined a specific diagnosis in 50% of the cases.
Succination of Keap1 and Activation of Nrf2-Dependent Antioxidant Pathways in FH-Deficient Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma Type 2

Fumarate hydratase (FH) is a tumor suppressor, but how it acts is unclear. Two reports in this issue of Cancer Cell reveal that FH deficiency leads to succination of Keap1, stabilization of Nrf2, and induction of stress-response genes including HMOX1, which is important for the survival of FH-deficient cells.
Absolute optical cross sections of cells and chloroplasts.

Abstract Absolute optical cross sections in square microns of Escherichia coli cells, spinach chloroplasts, and yeast cells were measured and compared with theoretical predictions for simple particle models. The area of these cross sections indicates the absolute amount of light per particle which is scattered at all angles or absorbed. The cross sections are obtained from transmissions of counted suspensions as measured with a special single-beam spectrophotometer. At a wavelength of 500 mμ, the average yeast cell is found to scatter 310% of the light striking its geometrical cross section. The spinach chloroplast scatters and absorbs a total of about 150% of the light that strikes it, while an E. coli cell scatters about 33%. Mie and anomalous diffraction equations were used to calculate theoretical cross sections from measured values of particle size, shape, refractive index, and gross internal structure. Absolute suspension transmissions were then calculated from these cross sections and the values of particle count. The resulting theoretical predictions quantitatively agree with observations. This agreement substantially establishes light-scattering theory as a reliable tool for studies of large biological particles. The same basic theory indicates that scattering by such particles is accomplished mainly by interference and diffraction, not by less potent mechanisms similar to surface reflection or Rayleigh scattering.
Improving performance of rate control mechanism for UDP traffic over heterogeneous networks

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an application-driven heterogeneous network, being rapidly deployed across the world. The proposed session layer for IoT is the upcoming standard for Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP). The transport layer of choice for IoT is emerging to be UDP. CoAP itself mandates usage of UDP only as the transport layer. It is well-known that practical usage of UDP requires extra employment of congestion control, generally in form of rate control. For bursty source data that is generated most of the while in IoT, usage of rate control is a must. Configuring the rate control parameters requires knowledge of the performance of the underlying network. In this paper, we first experimentally measure, analyze and model performance parameters, e.g. avg. bandwidth, round-trip delay and jitter, of a real heterogeneous wide area network. Based on the analysis, we then provide two novel, intuitive algorithms for source node rate control, and destination node timer management. These algorithms were found to improve the reception performance over that achievable using guidelines provided in RFC 5405. For delivery of urgent/critical data in IoT, we had earlier proposed usage of session-level forward error control (FEC) of the communicated data. Usage of our algorithms ensured that the deployment of the FEC scheme, which employed lightweight rate-10/11 Reed-Solomon codes, succeeded 98% of the while, while sending as many as 10 packets per burst. The algorithms can be re-used with similar high performance levels, in many other communication contexts also, that entail low-volume, bursty data traffic visualized in RFC 5405. Hence the algorithms may be considered for augmentation of CoAP standard.
Quantitating Urea Removal in Patients with Acute Renal Failure: Lost Art or Forgotten Science?

A 67-year-old woman is admitted to the surgical service with a high fever, a painful and distended abdomen, jaundice, and almost complete anuria. A urinalysis revealed dark red-brown urine notable for albuminuria, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and casts. The patient was treated with antibiotics, but continued to have oligoanuria. On the eighth day of hospitalization, the following laboratory tests were obtained: serum potassium, 13.7 mEq/L; BUN, 396 mg/dl. At this time the patient was noted to be encephalopathic with deteriorating clinical condition. Renal replacement therapy was initiated. The characteristics of the initial dialysis treatment are described in Table 1. After the initial dialysis treatment, the patient went on to become nonoliguric, followed by gradual recovery of urea clearance. She survived her acute illness, left the hospital, and at 7 months posthospitalization was doing quite well.