cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atypical processing of amyloid precursor fusion protein by proteolytic activity in Pichia pastoris.

Secretases catalyze the production of important proteolytic products of the amyloid precursor protein. We expressed a fusion protein that contained horseradish peroxidase, fragment 590-695 of amyloid precursor protein, and c-myc and polyhistidine tags in Pichia pastoris. It secreted a 50-kDa N-terminal fragment; a 15-kDa C-terminal fragment accumulated in cells. The N-terminal fragment exhibited peroxidase activity and reacted with antibodies specific for peptides within the sequences -2 to 15 and 21-37 of beta-amyloid peptide. The C-terminal fragment reacted with antibodies that recognize the sequences 649-664 and 676-695 of amyloid precursor protein and the C-terminal c-myc tag. To locate the cut site, the C-terminal fragment was metabolically labeled with either [(35)S]Met or [(3)H]Lys and radiosequenced. A major component, derived from a cleavage at Gly(25)-Ser(26) of beta-amyloid, was detected. Results suggest a predominant atypical cleavage, like that observed in Down Syndrome fibroblasts, occurs between the alpha- and gamma-sites.
Three-dimensional, conservative, Euler computations using patched grid systems and explicit methods

The method of 'zonal approach' (in which the flow field is partitioned into regions with independent grids) for computation of flow over complex geometries, such as aircraft configuration, requires application of a grid-interfacing procedure. A three-dimensional conservative, boundary scheme for patched grids, applicable in generalized coordinates for arbitrary point distributions on a planar zonal surface is presented. The computation technique is derived within the framework of the Osher (1983) upwind scheme, using Euler equations. The three-dimensional interfacing method is applied to the computation of flow about a wing-canard combination using a two-zone, patched grid.
Arginine and lysine in binding sites of anti-4-azophthalate antibodies.

Abstract Antibodies from individual rabbits, directed against 5-azoisophthalate have been examined for the presence of lysine in their combining sites by complete maleylation of amino groups in the absence and presence of hapten, and for arginine by glyoxalation of guanidinium groups in the absence and presence of hapten. By each procedure, antibody sites were lost when hapten was absent and this loss could be partially prevented when hapten was present during the chemical modification procedure. The results indicate that a large proportion of the sites of anti-5-azoisophthalate antibodies studied contain arginine and that a small proportion contain lysine.
Nonlinear dynamics of two-dimensional convection in a vertically stratified slot with and without gravity modulation

The convective flow in a vertical slot with differentially heated walls and vertical temperature gradient is considered for very large Rayleigh numbers. Gravity is taken to be vertical and to consist of both a mean and a harmonic modulation (‘jitter’) at a given frequency and amplitude. The time-dependent Boussinesq equations governing the two-dimensional convection are solved numerically. To this end an economic operator-splitting scheme is devised combined with internal iterations within a given time step. The approximation of the nonlinear terms is conservative and no scheme viscosity is present in the approximation. The flow is investigated for a range of Prandtl numbers from Pr = 1000 when fluid inertia is insignificant and only thermal inertia plays a role to Pr = 0.73 when both are significant and of the same order. The flow is governed by several parameters. In the absence of jitter, these are the Prandtl number, Pr, the Rayleigh number, Ra, and the dimensionless critical stratification, τB. Simulations are reported for Pr = 103 and a range of τB and Ra, with emphasis on mode selection and finite-amplitude states. The presence of jitter adds two more parameters, i.e. the dimensionless jitter amplitude e and frequency ω, rendering the flow susceptible to new modes of parametric instability at a critical amplitude ec. Stability maps of ec vs. ω are given for a range of ω. Finally we investigate the response of the system to jitter near the neutral curves of the various instability modes.
Dual-frequency shear wave motion detection

Shear wave motion detection is a critical part of ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE). Shear wave signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) is strongly related to the ultrasound RF (radiofrequency) signal SNR. Recently, we demonstrated substantial improvement of shear wave motion detection using pulse-inversion harmonic imaging (PIHI). In this study we propose to use filter-based harmonic imaging (FHI) to realize dual-frequency shear wave motion detection. With a filter-based approach, one can calculate shear wave motion signal from both the fundamental component and the harmonic component of the RF signal that is acquired from a single pulse-echo cycle. Two types of common shear wave imaging methods were investigated using dual-frequency detection: shear wave imaging with acoustic radiation force (ARF) as the shear wave source, and shear wave imaging with external mechanical vibration as the shear wave source. Phantom studies showed that for ARF based SWE, the push beam attenuates faster than the harmonic signal, and therefore, one can use harmonic signal for shear wave detection throughout the range of depth; for external mechanical vibration-based SWE, one can use harmonic signal to calculate shear wave motion for shallower region of the tissue for better SNR, and fundamental signal to calculate shear wave motion for deeper region of the tissue for better penetration, so that robust shear wave motion detection can be achieved throughout a large range-of-depth.
Microwave noise temperature and attenuation of clouds: Statistics of these effects at various sites in the United States, Alaska, and Hawaii

The microwave attenuation and noise temperature effects of clouds can result in serious degradation of telecommunications link performance, especially for low-noise systems presently used in deep-space communications. Although cloud effects are generally less than rain effects, the frequent presence of clouds will cause some amount of link degradation a large portion of the time. This paper presents a general review of cloud types and their water particle densities, attenuation and noise temperature calculations, and basic link signal-to-noise ratio calculations. Tabular results of calculations for 12 different cloud models are presented for frequencies in the range 10-50 GHz. Curves of average-year attenuation and noise temperature statistics at frequencies ranging from 10 to 90 GHz, calculated from actual surface and radiosonde observations, are given for 15 climatologically distinct regions in the contiguous United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. Nonuniform sky cover is considered in these calculations.
Manufacturing management—a world model?

Abstract Looking for a world model for the manufacturing information flow diagram has brought us to the conclusion that it is impossible to build an all-encompassing, all-inclusive system. The redundancy and overlap would make the system excessively complex and ineffective. The best way to generalize a model of this type is to simplify. The result is that we eliminate nearly the entire production control mechanism that is found in the labour intensive MRP system (Fig. 1). We come up with a system that is much closer to the material intensive JIT system (Fig. 2). The conclusion is that effective production control requires that you choose which resource you wish to optimize, and then select a system that controls the plant around the selected resource base. This is the function of books like International Management and Production. A second conclusion would be that complexity (MRP—Fig. 1) gains very little over simplicity (JIT—Fig. 2 or World Model—Fig. 4) in productivity or efficiency. As Shozo Hibino say...
A comparison of mass removal, thermal injury, and crater morphology of cortical bone ablation using wavelengths 2.79, 2.9, 6.1, and 6.45 µm

Background and Objective Previous investigations have reported evidence of wavelength dependence on cortical bone ablation. This study used mid-infrared laser wavelengths generated by a free electron laser (FEL) and mass removal measurements to further examine the ablation efficiency of a wavelength (2.79 µm) not previously reported and three wavelengths (2.9, 6.1, and 6.45 µm) previously demonstrated by crater morphology alone to be efficient for cortical bone removal. Study Design/Materials and Methods The wavelengths examined were provided by an FEL emitting 4 microseconds macropulses consisting of 1–2 picoseconds duration micropulses delivered at 350 picoseconds intervals. The mass removal measurements were conducted by a microbalance, and the collateral thermal injury and crater morphology of cortical bone were examined by light microscopy following standard histologic processing. Results The study demonstrated that the highest mass removal was achieved at λ = 6.1 µm followed by, in order, λ = 2.9, 6.45, and 2.79 µm. The zones of thermal injury and crater morphology created in cortical bone at the selected wavelengths were examined at the radiant exposure of 28.3 J/cm2. Ablation using λ = 6.1 µm provided the largest crater size and the least collateral thermal injury. The greatest amount of collateral thermal injury was produced by λ = 2.79 µm at both the sides and base of the ablation crater. Conclusions The mass removal of cortical bone produced by FEL ablation at selected mid-IR wavelengths was measured as a function of incident radiant exposure. The ablation efficiency was found to be dependent upon wavelength. The λ = 2.79 µm did not offer any improvement over the other wavelengths evaluated, suggesting that a potential shift in the dynamic optical properties of water during tissue irradiance with the FEL does not present an advantage to the cutting of cortical bone. The λ = 6.1 µm provided the highest ablation efficiency with deepest crater and the least amount of collateral thermal injury. Lasers Surg. Med. 39: 332–340, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Computer-Driven Full-Color Raster Scan Display System*

The system to be described, shown in Figure 1, employs raster scan "painting" to provide rich, flicker-free pictures. Color images are displayed at a resolution compatible with commercial television, while a high-resolution black and white display also exists for those cases where the standard resolution is inadequate. The mapping function, which is complex for this type of painting mode, is performed partially in the computer and partially in the display controller hardware. The controller and the magnetic disc perform automatic refreshing and handle the interfacing and data buffering functions. The computer used in the system is an IBM 1130 equipped with 8K of core, a disc, a card reader/punch, and a line printer. The computer services all user communications and provides system interactivity via the console keyboard. A set of FORTRAN-callable graphic subroutines is used in applications programs to generate images. The overall operation is as follows: 1. The computer generates the picture information and performs part of the mapping function. 2. The information is transferred to the controller, where the mapping to digital video is completed. The video is then put on the refresh disc. 3. The controller refreshes the displays by continuously reading out the digital video from the disc.
Charge decoherence in laterally coupled quantum dots due to electron-phonon interactions

We investigate electron charge decoherence in a laterally coupled single-electron semiconductor double quantum dot through electron-phonon interaction. We analytically and numerically evaluate the relaxation and dephasing rates due to electron coupling to both acoustic and optical phonons, and explore the system parameter space in terms of interdot distance, strength of single-dot confinement, and interdot coupling strength. Our numerical results show that the electron scattering rates are strongly dependent on the strength of the electron confinement and the size of the system. In addition, although the most dominant factor that determines the charge decoherence rate is the energy splitting between the charge qubit states, the details of the double dot configuration are also very important.
Tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative blood loss in orthognathic surgery.

DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase and the reference lists of identified articles were also scanned for relevant papers. STUDY SELECTION Only randomised controlled trials in English were considered. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two reviewers extracted data independently and study quality was assessed using the Jadad score. Meta-analysis was conducted. RESULTS Four RCTs with a total of 183 patients were included. Intraoperative blood loss in the tranexamic acid group was statistically reduced (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -93.56, 95% CI = -132.59-54.52, P < .00001). No statistical difference was seen in the postoperative levels of haemoglobin and haematocrit (WMD = 0.50, 95% CIs = -0.43-1.43, P = .29 and WMD = 0.18, 95% CIs = -1.64-1.99, P = .85, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis confirms that tranexamic acid can effectively reduce intraoperative blood loss in orthognathic surgery, especially by intravenous administration. But tranexamic acid cannot affect postoperative levels of haemoglobin and haematocrit.
A nonlinear weighted least-squares finite element method for the Oldroyd-B viscoelastic flow

This paper studies a nonlinear weighted least-squares finite element method for the steady Oldroyd-B viscoelastic flow. Our least-squares functional involves the L 2 -norm of the residuals of each equation multiplied by a proper weight. The weights include mass conservation constant, mesh dependent weight, and a nonlinear weighting function. We prove that the least-squares approximation converges to the solutions of the linearized versions of the viscoelastic fluid model at the best possible rate and then present the planar channel flow problem illustrating our theoretical results. Results of the least-squares approach indicate that with carefully chosen nonlinear weighting functions and linear basis functions, the numerical solution exhibits a second order convergence rate for velocity and viscous stress and superlinear convergence rate in polymeric stress and pressure. The method is applied to the 4-to-1 planar contraction problem. The effects of Weissenberg numbers are also presented in the work.
Electromagnetic deceleration of metallic spheres

The author reports the results of an approximate model of the potential of static magnetic fields, producible by permanent magnets, to decelerate spherical metal samples by eddy currents induced in the materials. It is assumed that the velocity of the sample is low enough that the magnetic field diffusion time is significantly less than the time required for the samples to pass through a half cycle of the magnetic field. Thus, the interaction between the sample and the field will be fully resistive, and the sample's kinetic energy will be converted directly into heat by joule heating. The mode incorporates the effects of magnetic field strength and system geometry, and it predicts that a useful braking device can be constructed. The results of the theoretical analysis are also compared against preliminary tests using a laboratory model. >
Selective experimental chelation of calcium in the AV node and His bundle

Abstract There are P cells in the human and canine AV (atrioventricular) node which are virtually devoid of gap junctions. All other components of myocardial cellular connections are calcium-dependent except the gap junction. Direct perfusion of disodium EDTA through the AV node artery of 16 anaesthetized dogs produced three immediate effects: complete AV block, a rapid irregular atrial rhythm and a separate rapid irregular ventricular rhythm. The atrial arrhythmia was short in duration and sinus rhythm resumed, initially with complete AV and VA block; both waned until normal AV conduction returned in each dog. In 3 of the 16 dogs there was transient complete AV block during which two independent His potentials were separately associated with the atrial and ventricular complexes. When conducted sinus rhythm resumed, there was initially A-H prolongation (but not H-V). Atropine, propranolol and reserpine had no influence on any electrophysiologic effect of EDTA. Both tachycardias probably originate in P cells of the AV node, the irregularity being attributable to varying enhancement of automaticity plus functional disaggregation of P cells. AV block is attributed to failure of conduction between disaggregated P cells, which in turn must be an obligatory pathway for normal AV conduction, because of their anatomic interposition. The findings further suggest that the AV nodal P cells are the site of the normal 40 ms delay in AV conduction, and that they may be the site of origin of the His potential.
The Quartic Effective Action for the Heterotic String

Abstract We calculate the complete low-energy effective action to quartic order in the bosonic fields for the heterotic string. We find that, in addition to the term involving Ξ(3) found previously, there are terms of the form Tr( F 2 − R 2 ) 2 and four- and six-derivative terms. We also show that the heterotic effective action reduces to that of the N = 1 supergravity sector of the superstring when the gauge connection is equal to the generalized spin connection.
How Subtle Differences in MHC Class II Affect the Severity of Experimental Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle weakness, due to an antibody-mediated deficit of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at neuromuscular junctions. We analyzed the factors that determine the severity of experimental myasthenia gravis (EAMG) induced by immunization with Torpedo AChR, in two congenic strains of mice--B6 mice, which are highly susceptible to EAMG; and bm12 mice, which are relatively resistant, and differ only in a change of three amino acids in MHC Class II. We prepared large numbers of AChR-specific T cell hybridomas from each strain and characterized their epitope specificities and T cell receptor (TCR) gene usage: Half the B6 hybridomas responded to a single AChR peptide (alpha 146-162), and their TCR genes encoded restricted V alpha and V beta chains and CDR3 motifs. bm12 hybridomas had different epitope specificities and different, less restricted TCR genes. APCs were able to present AChR or AChR-derived peptides virtually exclusively to hybridomas of their own strain. Levels of antibodies to Torpedo and autoantibodies to mouse AChR were higher in B6 mice, and were biased toward the IgG2b isotype. We conclude that the "better fit" of MHC II, peptide, and TCR in the B6 mice enhanced cognate interactions of APCs with T cells, and T cells with B cells, resulting in a more abundant and pathogenic AChR antibody response, and thus more severe EAMG.
The chelation of monochelated protoheme

Abstract Photolysis of CO and 1-methylimidazole (1-MeIm) mixtures of protoheme monomethyl ester, mono[3-(1-imidazoyl)propyl]amide (monochelated protoheme, or mcph) in toluene is followed over a time period of minutes. Reactions are followed under pseudo-first-order conditions, and the difference spectra recorded for each kinetic run show multiple isosbestic points. Intercepts from plots of the reciprocals of the observed rate constants versus 1-methylimidazole concentration suggest the initial mcph-CO complex has the internal base displaced by external 1-methylimidazole. Photolysis of this mcph(1-MeIm)(CO) complex yields mcph(1-MeIm) ( 5 ) which is five-coordinated, with the internal imidazole not attached to the iron atom. Prior to CO recombination, 5 forms a rapid equilibrium with the two hexacoordinated forms, mcph(1-MeIm) 2 ( 6 ) and mcph(1-MeIm) ( 3 ), which decays to form the CO complex mcph(1-MeIm)(CO) (species 6 , like species 5 ,has the internal base unbound to the iron atom whereas species 3 has the internal imidazole bound to the iron atom). Based on values relative to the rate of CO association to 5 , estimates are made for the binding constant of a second mole of 1-MeIm to form 6 , (6±2) × 10 5 M −1 , and the chelation constant of the internal imidazole to form 3 , (8±3) ×10 3 . Comparison with similar compounds taken from the literature reveal that, in addition to the dependence on the length of the side-arm (F.A. Walker and M. Benson, J. Am. Chem. Soc. , 102 (1980) 5530–5538), chelation is dependent on solvent, structure of the base, structure of the porphyrin, and whether the iron is four- or five-coordinated — the binding of side-arm bases is poorer to a five-coordinated heme than to a four-coordinated heme, contrary to traditional behavior.
The oxidation of CH2O in the intermediate temperature range (943–995 K)

New atmospheric pressure flow reactor data on the oxidation of formaldehyde in the temperature range 943–995 K and over equivalence ratios from 0.013 to 36.7 are reported and discussed. A detailed mechanism assembled from previously published results produced acceptable agreement with the experimental data for the fuel-lean conditions, but failed to predict results for oxidative pyrolysis. Analysis or the very fuel-lean conditions, but failed to modelling results are principally sensitive to CH2O+HO2→HCO+H2O2 (6) and H2O2 +M→OH+OH+M (33). Whereas the specific rate of each reaction cannot be independently determined, it is found that the product k33.k6 is a well defined function of temperature: (3.4±3.0).1028 exp(−(26,800±400)/T). Inadequacies in the mechanism which may be responsible for the disagreement under fuel-rich conditions are discussed.
Decision tables: Formalisation, validation, and verification

SUMMARY The decision table is one of the simplest representations of the rules underlying a systematic decisionmaking process, and is especially valuable in the development of knowledge-based systems. A two dimensional table links all relevant combinations of input conditions to the desired combinations of output actions in a very intuitive way. This simplicity belies the complex considerations involved in verifying, validating, formulating or interpreting this (or any other) representation of machine-based knowledge. In this paper, the common styles of decision table representation are reviewed, a formulation of their meaning is presented, construction methods are reviewed, and an algorithm for ensuring consistency is suggested. The problems that may occur in imperfectly constructed tables are discussed, detection methods reviewed, and some implementation methods are presented.
Neonatal middle ear effusion predicts chronic otitis media with effusion.

HYPOTHESIS AND AIMS The specific aims of the research are to determine whether newborn ears with persistent middle ear effusion at age 30 to 48 hours are more likely to develop chronic otitis media with effusion over the first year of life when compared with ears without persistent middle ear effusion. The hypothesis is that neonates with middle ear effusion persisting to 30 to 48 hours are more likely to develop chronic otitis media with effusion. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, case-control design. Loupe-magnified pneumatic otoscopy performed at the time of newborn hearing screening determined presence or absence of effusion. Infants enrolled in the study returned for outpatient examinations. SETTING University medical center well-baby nursery and out-patient audiology clinic. SUBJECTS From 454 neonates, 14 experimental subjects with neonatal middle ear effusions and 15 control subjects free of neonatal effusion were recruited for the study and followed-up for 1 year. INTERVENTIONS Outpatient study tests included transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions, tympanometry, pneumatic otoscopy, and visual reinforcement audiometry (starting at age 6 months), at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age. Experimental (neonatal effusion) infants were followed-up starting at age 1 month. Infants found at any follow-up examination to have effusion on otoscopy were followed-up and tested 1 month later. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Chronic otitis media with effusion defined as hypomobile or immobile tympanic membrane on pneumatic otoscopy in one or both ears for three consecutive monthly examinations. Hearing loss defined as greater than 25-dB hearing loss visual reinforcement audiometry thresholds. RESULTS Eight experimental infants (58%) and three control infants (20%) developed chronic otitis media with effusion (p < 0.04). The average number of effusions was 1.27 for control and 4.14 for experimental infants (average number of effusions for each group at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month visits). Warbled tone and speech visual reinforcement audiometry thresholds averaged 3 dB worse in the experimental group, but these differences were not statistically significant. For the control group, mean visual reinforcement audiometry thresholds never exceeded 25 dB hearing loss. For the experimental group, mean visual reinforcement audiometry thresholds exceeded 25 dB hearing loss at 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 Hz at 9 months. CONCLUSIONS A majority of infants with persistent neonatal middle ear effusion found by pneumatic otoscopy at 30 to 48 hours will develop chronic otitis media with effusion during the first year of life. However, chronic otitis media with effusion is common in all infants (20% of controls), a time during which infants are examined and tested frequently.
Belt abrasion resistance and cutting tool studies on new ultra-hard boride materials

Abstract Composites of AlMgB 14 with 0, 30, and 70 wt% of TiB 2 were prepared by mechanical alloying and hot pressing. The composites’ belt abrasion resistance and cutting tool performance were measured by gravimetric analysis of material removal at varying loads and cutting speeds. AlMgB 14 –70 wt% TiB 2 composites had high hardness and fracture toughness and the highest abrasive resistance of the three compositions. Cutting tool performance of AlMgB 14 –70 wt% TiB 2 showed low wear due to chipping and little reaction with the Ti–6Al–4V work-piece. Subsurface damage and adhesion of the work-piece onto the tool material were gauged by SEM.
Composition, Microstructure, Water Imbibition, and Thermal Properties of Abraded Barley

ABSTRACT Barley, nonwaxy hull (cvs. Crystal and Meltan) and waxy hull-less (cvs. Merlin and Waxbar), was abraded at 10, 20, and 40% of kernel weight on a laboratory scale and commercially abraded at two levels: fine and coarse. In 40% abraded kernels of Crystal, protein, ash, and free lipids contents decreased by 1.6, 1.4, and 1.4%, respectively, and starch and β-glucans contents increased by 16 and 1.2%, respectively, compared to nonabraded kernels. Merlin showed smaller changes in the levels of these components, except for proteins. Changes in starch and protein in laboratory abraded barley were used to estimate the level of barley abrasion on a commercial scale. Scanning electron microscope pictures revealed that in nonwaxy barley at 10% abrasion the hull and part of the seed coat were absent, whereas waxy barley lost all of the seed coat and most of the aleurone layer. Maximum water imbibition of 40% abraded waxy barley was reached after 5 hr of soaking, whereas nonwaxy barley needed 8 hr to level off...
Diminished calcium influx in lectin-stimulated T cells from old mice

T lymphocytes from aged donors function poorly, but the biochemical basis for the defect remains uncertain. We tested the hypothesis that T cells from old mice had a diminished ability to transmit extracellular signals into the cytoplasm, by measuring intracellular free calcium concentrations (Cai) in T cells stimulated by the polyclonal activator concanavalin A (Con A). Using the second-generation fluorochrome indo-1 as a reporter of Cai, we found that the Con A-induced elevation of Cai levels is reduced both in rate and extent in old T cells, as compared to T cells from young mice. Flow cytometric analysis showed that this age-sensitive change represents a decline, with age, in the number of T cells that can respond to Con A by increasing their Cai above resting baseline levels (100-120 nM). These results thus show that defects in activation are manifested by T cells from old donors within the first 5 minutes of the activation process, and suggest that aging may lead to alterations either in the surface molecules that receive extracellular signals, or in the sequence of coupled events by which these extracellular signals bring about alterations in the intracellular ionic milieu.
THE EFFECTS OF HYPOPHYSECTOMY ON THE RESPIRATION AND CELLULAR COMPONENTS OF THE BONE MARROW OF THE RAT1

Aliterature is steadily accumulating which indicates that the endocrine system exerts a supportive influence upon certain phases of blood formation. The evidence for this relation is derived in part from the behavior of the formed elements of the blood and the bone marrow histology and cytology in animals experiencing various forms of endocrine deficiency (Gordon and Charipper, 1947; Daughaday, Williams and Daland, 1948). That the hypophysis may represent the initiating source of the endocrine influence on hemopoiesis is indicated by the peripheral anemia and the hypoplasia of the bone marrow which follows removal of this gland (Vollmer, Gordon, Levenstein and Charipper, 1939; Crafts, 1941). Moreover, the administration of principles of endocrine organs regulated by the adenohypophysis results in the amelioration of the hemic dysfunctions induced by hypophyseal removal (Meyer, Thewlis and Rusch 1940; Vollmer and Gordon, 1941; Vollmer, Gordon and Charipper, 1942; Crafts, 1946 a, b).
Optimization techniques for automated inspection of rectangular and square parts

Abstract This paper presents recently developed mathematical models and techniques to verify the shape and dimensions of production parts with a rectangular or square profile. The objective of these models is to minimize the sum of the squares of the deviations of a given set of boundary points of an inspected part and the boundary of a defect-free image.
Collagen biosynthesis by human skin fibroblasts. I. Optimization of the culture conditions for synthesis of type I and type III procollagens

Skin fibroblasts in culture can provide a convenient means to study aberrations of collagen metabolism in a variety of clinical conditions. In the present study, the culture conditions for the synthesis of procollagen by cultured human skin fibroblasts were optimized by independently varying parameters in the cell culture environment. To study the synthesis of procollagen the cell cultures were labeled with [3H]proline and the collagenous polypeptides were determined either by measuring the synthesis of hydroxy[3H]proline or by assaying the 3H-labeled proteins digested into dialyzable 3H-labeled peptides by bacterial collagenase. On the basis of the experimental results, the following culture conditions are suggested for optimal synthesis of procollagen: (a) cell culture medium should be supplemented with ascorbic acid (25--50 micrograms/ml) and fetal calf serum (20%); (b) the pH of the culture medium should be kept above 7.2 and preferably in the pH range 7.5--7.8; (c) the cell cultures should be used one to two days after reaching visual confluency. Under these conditions the synthesis and secretion of [3H]procollagen was found to be linear through a 24 h incubation period, and procollagen was demonstrated to be a major gene product of the fibroblasts. The relative synthesis of type I and type III procollagens was also monitored by isolating these genetically distinct procollagens by DEAE-cellulose chromatography or by measuring type I and III collagens by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after limited pepsin proteolysis. No marked changes were observed in type I/III procollagen ratios in situations where the total formation of hydroxy[3H]proline was significantly affected. The average coefficient of variance for procollagen synthesis between replicate cultures was found to be relatively small (14%), and the optimization of the culture conditions for the control cells has, therefore, created a reliable and reproducible basis for employing human skin fibroblasts to study collagen metabolism in acquired and inherited diseases.
Atomic layer epitaxy for resonant tunneling devices

Abstract We report the first demonstration of an AlGaAs/GaAs resonant tunneling diode (RTD) grown by atomic layer epitaxy (ALE) which features room temperature negative differential resistance. The ALE growth is obtained in a rotating susceptor system with trimethylgallium, trimethylaluminum and arsine sources. Wafer mapping of the RTD properties indicates that monolayer thickness control can be achieved by this technique. In addition to vertical resonant tunneling, we also describe the application of ALE to realize lateral tunneling heterostructures and propose one such embodiment, a lateral heterojunction resonant tunneling transistor in a configuration offering room temperature operation.
A longitudinal examination of predictors of delinquency: An analysis of data from the Mobile Youth Survey

Abstract This study analyzed the relationships among adolescent delinquency, self-worth, peer influence, and family cohesion (i.e., maternal and paternal warmth). The longitudinal analysis identified how these relationships develop and change through adolescence. Using data from the Mobile Youth Survey, a 14-year longitudinal study of high-poverty, primarily Black American youths living in Alabama (N = 5400), delinquency, self-worth, and peer influence were analyzed in linear growth models. Results from these three linear growth models are presented. Findings include a significant increase in delinquency over time for the adolescents in the study and significantly lower rates of delinquency overall for females than males. Delinquency was also found to have negative relationships to both parental warmth and self-worth, with higher levels leading to decreased delinquency. Peer influence was found to have a gender effect, with males exhibiting steady rates, while females exhibit an increase in peer influence over time. Furthermore, maternal warmth and self-worth are also found to increase the rates of peer influence as well as significantly increasing self-worth.
Considerations regarding antiretroviral chemoprophylaxis and heterosexuals in generalized epidemic settings.

Purpose of reviewTo discuss the factors pertinent to the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) by at-risk heterosexuals in countries with generalized HIV epidemics.Recent findingsPrEP will have the greatest prevention effect if targeted to those at highest risk, but identifying and engaging such pe
Medtronic Sprint Fidelis lead recall: determining the initial 5-year management cost to Medicare.

Background The Medtronic Sprint Fidelis defibrillator lead has a high failure rate and was recalled in October 2007. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the incremental cost of the management of this lead to Medicare. Methods Real hospital cost data in U.S. dollars were collected on 32 patients with a Medtronic Sprint Fidelis lead who underwent lead revision. Of these patients, 15 were excluded because they had insurance coverage other than that provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Seventeen patients with Medicare or Medicaid coverage underwent lead revision either electively (n = 6) or after being hospitalized for multiple shocks caused by a lead fracture (n = 11). Eighty-eight percent of the patients underwent extraction of the Fidelis lead at the time of lead revision. A decision model was made that outlines the potential management of the lead recall over time. The existing literature and Medtronic data were reviewed for parameters included in the decision model. The model assumed that 175,000 patients were alive with an implanted Fidelis lead at the time of the recall and that the annual failure rate will be 1.8% over the first 5 years. It was also assumed that 1% of patients without a lead fracture would also undergo elective lead revision each year and that the proportion of patients who would have the Fidelis lead extracted rather than abandoned would be 20:80. Estimates with ranges were used for parameters for which no data are available. The industry standard rate of lead failure was estimated based on the Sprint Quattro model 6947 lead, and this was subtracted from the estimated rates for the Sprint Fidelis lead such that the incremental cost of the lead failure could be estimated. Results The cost of lead revision trended higher when the Fidelis lead was extracted rather than abandoned ($45,077 ± $11,693 vs $33,802 ± $33, P = .20). In 5 years, the estimated cost impact of the Medtronic Sprint Fidelis lead recall to Medicare will be $287,000,000 (range $176,000,000–$1,186,000,000, October 2007 USD). Conclusion The cost impact of managing a defibrillator lead with a high failure rate to Medicare will be substantial.
Plasmodium chabaudi adami: interferon-γ but not IL-2 is essential for the expression of cell-mediated immunity against blood-stage parasites in mice

Abstract Cell-mediated immunity (CMI) may be important in immunity against blood-stage malaria. Accordingly, we examined the role of type 1 cytokines in the resolution of Plasmodium chabaudi adami malaria in mice genetically modified to have type 1 cytokine gene defects. Parasitemia was prolonged in double knockout (IL-2−/−, IFNγ−/−) mice compared to control mice. Despite deficiencies in γδ T cell and B cell subsets, these mice produced anti-malarial antibodies and eventually cured their infections, possibly by antibody-mediated immunity. However, because acute P. c. adami parasitemia may also be suppressed by CMI, the requirements for IL-2 and IFNγ were evaluated in mice lacking B cells and functional IL-2 or IFNγ genes. Acute malaria in JH−/−, IL-2−/− mice was prolonged, but eventually cured. In contrast, JH−/−, IFNγ−/− mice developed unremitting parasitemia. These data strongly suggest that IFNγ, but not IL-2, plays an essential role in the expression of CMI against P. c. adami infections. This finding may prove useful in developing malarial vaccines aimed at inducing CMI. Index Descriptors and Abbreviations: Plasmodium chabaudi adami (P. c. adami); malaria; rodent; TH1/2 cytokines; infectious immunity-parasites; protozoan diseases; AMI, antibody-mediated immunity; CMI, cell-mediated immunity; KO, knockout; WT, wild-type; HRP, horse-radish peroxidase; B cells, B220+/Ig+ B cells; IL, interleukin
Chemical response of lakes in the Adirondack Region of New York to declines in acidic deposition

Long-term changes in the chemistry of wet deposition and lake water were investigated in the Adirondack Region of New York. Marked decreases in concentrations of SO4(2-) and H+ in wet deposition have occurred at two sites since the late 1970s. These decreases are consistent with long-term declines in emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the eastern United States. Changes in wet NO3- deposition and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions have been minor over the same interval. Virtually all Adirondack Lakes have shown marked decreases in concentrations of SO4(2-), which coincide with decreases in atmospheric S deposition. Concentrations of NO3- have also decreased in several Adirondack lakes. As atmospheric N deposition has not changed over this period, the mechanism contributing to this apparent increase in lake/watershed N retention is not evident. Decreases in concentrations of SO4(2-) + NO3- have resulted in increases in acid-neutralizing capacity (ANC) and pH and resulted in a shift in the speciation of monomeric Al from toxic inorganic species toward less toxic organic forms in some lakes. Nevertheless, many lakes continue to exhibit pH values and concentrations of inorganic monomeric Al that are critical to aquatic biota. Extrapolation of rates of ANC increase suggests that the time frame of chemical recovery of Adirondack Lakes will be several decades if current decreases in acidic deposition are maintained.
Locomotory behavior of fibroblasts in "sail-sheets".

The locomotory behavior of fibroblasts in two-dimensional cultures (e.g., on culture dishes, cover slips, etc.) was first reported by Abercrombie's group. This paper describes some of the features of movement of fibroblasts in a unique culture system known as sail-sheet cultures (SSCs). Cells in SSCs grow mostly on one another in a three-dimensional form that resembles, to some extent, the in vivo situation. We grew chicken heart fibroblasts (CHFs) as SSCs and studied their locomotory behavior by time-lapse filming extended for periods ranging from 12 h to several days. It was found that CHFs grown as sail-sheets exhibit many features of movement as observed in conventional two-dimensional cultures (CCs). However, we observed that CHFs in SSCs, like those in vivo, lack leading lamella directing their movement. Furthermore, locomotion is significantly slower in SSCs than in CCs. Based on data on the movement of CHFs within the mesh holes of inert grids, we suggest that the mesenchymal cells in SSCs, in addition to their individual movement, move in sheets and that their movement in sheets results in the closure of the mesh holes, a situation that resembles the phenomenon of healing of wounds. Thus SSCs provide a model system for the study of healing of wounds. The presence of collagenlike extracellular matrix (CLECM) between cellular layers in SSCs suggests that CLECM may be involved in guiding the locomotory behavior of CHFs in SSCs.
Analysis of the in vitro metabolites of diferuloylmethane (curcumin) by liquid chromatography--tandem mass spectrometry on a hybrid quadrupole linear ion trap system: newly identified metabolites.

In this study, we have described a novel approach for determining the metabolic scheme of diferuloylmethane (curcumin) in mouse and human liver microsomal preparations using a hybrid quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer coupled with liquid chromatography for the detection of new metabolites. Application of various acquisition modes allowed targeted searches for metabolites with high sensitivity and selectivity using information of the mass spectral fragmentation properties of curcumin. Structural assignments for metabolites previously reported in the literature were made with confidence using the described approach. In addition, we identified curcumin metabolites that had not previously been reported, such as curcumin fcglucuronide andO-demethylated derivatives. The major pathways of curcumin metabolismin vitro have been summarized. Finally, very similar metabolic pathways of curcumin were observed in human and mouse microsomes.
The stereochemistry of reduction by complex metal hydrides

Die gegenwartig akzeptierte Theorie des Mechanismus der Reduktion von Ketonen mit Metallhydriden wird diskutiert. Verschiedene Unstimmigkeiten werden aufgezeigt, und ein neuer Mechanismus wird vorgeschlagen, der mit den experimentellen Befunden besser ubereinstimmt.
A Probabilistic Interpretation of the Hurwitz Zeta Function

Abstract Presented in a continuous extension of a measure used by Sal Golomb to define a probability on the sample space of natural numbers. The extension is a probability measure which holds several characteristic in common with Golotnb′s measure but on the sel (1, ∞ ). I have proven a theorem which relates the continuous measure to the continuous arithmetic density in a manner analogous to the relation with Golomb′s discrete measure and the discrete arithmic density.
Internet use in Ukraine's Orange Revolution

The Ukrainian presidential elections of 2004 witnessed a massive uprising of the Ukrainian electorate against the incumbent government's tactics of vote rigging and ballot fraud. In this paper, ten Ukrainian websites focusing on the election are critically evaluated and compared by analyzing their website activity data. Despite lacking access to mass media, supporters of democratic change compensated through skillful use of the internet to recruit volunteers, raise funds, organize campaigns, report breaking news, and garner the sympathy of the global democratic community. Comparisons with broader web usage are made, and social and business implications are suggested. D 2005 Kelley School of Business, Indiana University. All rights reserved.
The aerodynamics of insect flight

The flight of insects has fascinated physicists and biologists for more than a century. Yet, until recently, researchers were unable to rigorously quantify the complex wing motions of flapping insects or measure the forces and flows around their wings. However, recent developments in high-speed videography and tools for computational and mechanical modeling have allowed researchers to make rapid progress in advancing our understanding of insect flight. These mechanical and computational fluid dynamic models, combined with modern flow visualization techniques, have revealed that the fluid dynamic phenomena underlying flapping flight are different from those of non-flapping, 2-D wings on which most previous models were based. In particular, even at high angles of attack, a prominent leading edge vortex remains stably attached on the insect wing and does not shed into an unsteady wake, as would be expected from non-flapping 2-D wings. Its presence greatly enhances the forces generated by the wing, thus enabling insects to hover or maneuver. In addition, flight forces are further enhanced by other mechanisms acting during changes in angle of attack, especially at stroke reversal, the mutual interaction of the two wings at dorsal stroke reversal or wing-wake interactions following stroke reversal. This progress has enabled the development of simple analytical and empirical models that allow us to calculate the instantaneous forces on flapping insect wings more accurately than was previously possible. It also promises to foster new and exciting multi-disciplinary collaborations between physicists who seek to explain the phenomenology, biologists who seek to understand its relevance to insect physiology and evolution, and engineers who are inspired to build micro-robotic insects using these principles. This review covers the basic physical principles underlying flapping flight in insects, results of recent experiments concerning the aerodynamics of insect flight, as well as the different approaches used to model these phenomena.
De-aggregatory action of prostacyclin in vivo and its enhancement by theophylline.

Abstract In the mixed venous blood of anaesthetized, heparinized cats prostacyclin de-aggregated platelet thrombi, which were formed on the surface of blood-superfused collagen strips or on the surface of blood-superfused aortic strips from atherosclerotic rabbits. The reversal of platelet aggregation by prostacyclin was still achieved 3 hrs after the formation of platelet clumps. After an intravenous injection of prostacyclin the ID50 for its de-aggregatory action was 7.5 μg/kg. Theophylline ethyldiamine (aminophylline), at a dose of 3 mg/kg i.v., did not reverse platelet aggregation but it enhanced the duration of the de-aggregatory action of prostacyclin; it had little effect on the hypotensive action of prostacyclin. It is concluded that prostacyclin disintegrates platelet clumps long after they are formed in heparinized blood in vivo and that its anti-platelet action, but not hypotensive action, is selectively potentiated by a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. The above experimental data indicate the possibility of the combined use of theophylline and prostacyclin in arterial thrombosis.