cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fluorescence-based sensing of transition metal ions by a carbonic anhydrase transducer with a tethered fluorophore

We have demonstrated that free metal ions such as Zn(II) can be determined by fuorescence anisotropy (polarization) using an apometalloenzyme, carbonic anhydrase II, and a fluorescent aryl sulfonamide inhibitor of the enzyme whose affinity for the enzyme is metal-dependent. We felt that attaching the fluorescent aryl sulfonamide to the protein would provide a similar response, while avoiding problems of disproportionation of the inhibitor and protein. In fact a tethered aryl sulfonamide ABD-T gave very good results: Zn(II) and Cu(II) at picomolar levels and Co(II), Cd(II), and Ni(II) at nanomolar levels can all be determined by changes in fluorescence intensity, anisotropy, and lifetime using visible excitation sources. Implications of these results are discussed.
Effect of orientation difference on the plastic deformation of aluminum bicrystals

Abstract Single crystal and bicrystal specimens of high-purity aluminum having controlled orientations were grown from the melt using “seeding” techniques. The crystals were similarly oriented with respect to the specimen axis which was located near 〈110〉 in the stereographic projection. The effect of varying the orientation difference, by rotations about the specimen axis, on the tensile stress-strain curves and slip characteristics was studied up to 2 per cent deformation. An increase in orientation difference was found to have a marked effect on inhibiting the initial plastic deformation and on modifying the subsequent stages of deformation. The yield stress and the rate of strain hardening increased and the “easy” glide region was shortened, as the orientation difference between neighboring crystals increased. The shortening of the “easy” glide region was related to the increased amount of double glide observed in the vicinity of the grain boundary. The operative slip planes in the bicrystal specimens were determined to be the same as those which occur for a single crystal stressed in a similar manner. The results were discussed in terms of a slip activation process and the obstruction of dislocations at the grain boundary.
X-Ray studies of palladium-cadmium and palladium-antimony alloys

Abstract The lattice parameters of the palladium-rich, face-centered cubic (α) and face-centered tetragonal (α′), solid solutions of cadmium in palladium have been measured. The solid-solubility limit of the cubic phase has been determined and an attempt has been made to characterize the crystal structure of the tetragonal phase. In addition, the lattice parameters of the palladium-rich, f.c.c. solid solutions in the palladium-antimony system and the solid-solubility limit of antimony in palladium at temperatures between 500 ° and 1000 °C have been determined. Values of the lattice parameters of the intermetallic compounds PdSb and PdSb2 have also been obtained.
Paleomagnetism of the late CambrianCrepicephalus-Aphelaspis trilobite zone boundary in North America—divergent poles from isochronous strata

Paleomagnetic samples from the Nolichucky Formation (Late Cambrian), sampled at two sites in the Valley and Ridge Province of east Tennessee, yield a possibly penecontemporaneous characteristic magnetization that appears to reside in detrital magnetite. The paleomagnetic pole positions are “Paleozoic”, but differ: site I, lat. 41°N, long. 109°E,dp = 1°, dm = 2°; site II, lat. 39°N, long. 131°E,dp = 4°, dm = 7°. The difference in poles reflects a significant difference in declination between the site-mean directions, and this declination difference probably reflects relative tectonic rotation as the sites are in different thrust sheets. The paleontologic age of both sections is exceptionally well-constrained as they are sampled across an abrupt “biomere boundary” between contrasting trilobite faunas. Comparison of these results with paleomagnetic data from coeval strata elsewhere in North America reveals gross discrepancies, so that at least some of the published data must reflect remagnetization and/or tectonic rotation.
Regularity of sets of initial strings of periodic D0L-systems

For an alphabet A and a morphism h: A∗ → A∗, the set of words w such that the D0L-system (A, h, w) is periodic is shown to be a noncounting, regular language. Use is made of the author's recent investigations of periodic D0L-systems.
Double submissions: publishing misconduct or just effective dissemination?

As the community develops an ever more diverse set of venues for disseminating and discussing technical work and as the traditional resource constraints change from pages and shelf space to reviewer time, the traditional prohibition against double submission deserves closer consideration. We discuss reasons why double submissions have been frowned upon, and try to establish a set of guidelines that ensure appropriate review and dissemination, without preventing informal early discussion of research projects.
Power optimization of NeuroMonitor EEG device: Hardware/software co-designed interrupt driven clocking approach

Wireless and wearable EEG device for home based long-term non intrusive diagnosis for therapy applications like ASD, ADHD, Epilepsy and other neurological disorders is crucial. This work presents the NeuroMonitor (rev. 2.0) platform designed to record EEG signals from two (bipolar or referential montage) channels. The device is lightweight 41.8g (with 900mAh battery and 3 electrodes) and miniature, 5.58cm× 2.03cm × 0.91cm. A power analysis and power optimization techniques have been studied using interrupt driven clocking approach for the Analog Front End, the ADC and the Digital Back End. About 5 fold power reduction; from the 94mW (av.) in rev. 1.0 to a 17mW in rev. 2.0, while maintaining the sampling rate has been achieved.
Radio Interference with the Operation of Static Utility Protective Relays

Controls used in electric power distribution systems are generally tolerant of the high level of interference signals found in that environment. Recently, however, increased power demnds have required a new class of solid state controls which are more sensitive to RFI. In order to delineate the problem this report examines the magnitude and distribution of RF fields in a small power substation during an incident of radio transmission. RF electric field strengths were of the order of 10 V/m. Exposure of cormercial distribution relays to such fields are shown to produce considerable interference with normal operation. Radio frequencies from 20 to 500 MHz were employed
Trans-sexually grafted antennae influence development of sexually dimorphic neurones in moth brain

Observations in insects reveal sexual differences in the central nervous system (CNS), associated with sexually dimorphic patterns of reproductive behaviour1–9. For example, in certain species of moths, including the sphinx moth Manduca sexta, only males fly towards a sexually receptive female or towards a source of the female sex pheromone10,11. In Manduca, specialized olfactory receptor cells found only on male antennae12,13 respond sensitively and selectively to the female sex pheromone (unpublished experiments with K.-E. Kaissling and R. J. O'Connell). Their axons project into the macroglomerular complex (MGC), which is characteristic of male, but not female, antennal lobes (ALs; Fig. 1b, d)1–3,5,8,9,14. These afferents to the MGC presumably synapse with male-specific AL neurones8,15 to begin the processing of phenomonal information. We have now devised a surgical procedure for producing antennal gynandromorphs of Manduca in which one of the two ALs receives sensory innervation from an antenna formed by a transplanted imaginal disk of the opposite sex. We report here that in these gynandromorphs, the physiological and morphological properties of certain AL neurones are influenced by the gender of the antennal sensory axons contacting them. In particular, neurones resembling the male-specific AL neurones appear in female ALs innervated by sensory axons from a grafted male antenna.
Students’ Activities in a Pre-matriculation Course as a Predictor of Initial Academic Performance in Medical School

Medical schools offer pre-matriculation courses to prepare incoming students for medical school. Although numerous programs exist, little data has been presented to show improvement in outcomes. The Summer Pre-matriculation Course (SPC) was designed to include instruction in basic sciences and terminology. In addition to SPC grades, student survey responses and students’ grades in Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms (MCM), a semester 1 course, were used for statistical analysis. We have determined that students who attended the SPC did not outperform other students during the MCM course. Positive correlations were found to exist between the final grade in MCM and student’s grade both in SPC and on the baseline exam. We also found that students who indicated that they generally study less than fellow students to achieve the same results were more likely to have lower final scores in MCM. These results lead us to believe that no significant academic advantage is gained by SPC attendants. We did, however, identify data points that may be indicators of future performance and may be useful in identifying “at risk” students within the SPC.
DC Power Line Changing of Macroscopic Particles and Associated Electrical Precipitation on Insulators

The objective is a model for estimating the rate of electrical precipitation of macroscopic particles onto insulators where the particle charging is due to ions generated by the line and associated apparatus. The general theoretical structure required to describe particle charging and convective turbulent diffusion in a state-space of position and mobility is developed as a basis for predicting deposition in specific configurations. A wind tunnel facility is described for testing predictions of the theory for charging in the vicinity of a power line. The tunnel is equipped to control the turbulence level, with monodisperse zerocharge particles introduced upstream of a cable which is itself in a controlled state of corona discharge. Equipment for measuring the spatial distribution and mobility distribution at a downstream plane includes an electric analyzer, particle neutralizer, and mass monitor. The theoretical model, which predicts the lower extreme of the observed mobility distribution but a lesser spread than found experimentally, points to either a need for greater resolution in the mobility spectrum analyzer, or the existence of near-line turbulence generation associated with corona wind.
Regulatory elements of the melanocortin 1 receptor

Among more than 120 genes that are now known to regulate mammalian pigmentation, one of the key genes is MC1R, which encodes the melanocortin 1 receptor, a seven transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor expressed on the surface of melanocytes. Since the monoexonic sequence of the gene was cloned and characterized more than a decade ago, tremendous efforts have been dedicated to the extensive genotyping of mostly red-haired populations all around the world, thus providing allelic variants that may or may not account for melanoma susceptibility in the presence or absence of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Soluble factors, such as proopiomelanocortin (POMC) derivatives, agouti signal protein (ASP) and others, regulate MC1R expression, leading to improved photoprotection via increased eumelanin synthesis or in contrast, inducing the switch to pheomelanin. However, there is an obvious lack of knowledge regarding the numerous and complex regulatory mechanisms that govern the expression of MC1R at the intra-cellular level, from gene transcription in response to an external stimulus to the expression of the mature receptor on the melanocyte surface.
Failure to agree is not a failure: φ-Agreement with post-verbal subjects in Hebrew

Based on the patterns of phi-agreement with post-verbal subjects in Hebrew, I argue against the idea that failure to establish a phi-agreement relation between a phi-probe and its putative target (e.g., due to intervention) results in ungrammaticality, or a “crash”; at the same time, I demonstrate that phi-agreement also cannot be optional. At first glance, these two claims—that phi-agreement is neither optional, nor does its failure result in ungrammaticality—might seem contradictory. However, I argue that there is a third possibility, which is in fact the only one that can account for the data under consideration: phi-agreement must be attempted by every phi-probe; but if it fails (e.g., due to the presence of an intervener), its failure is systematically tolerated. tolerated.
Socioeconomic Determinants of Attitudes Toward Bioengineered Products

Results from a 1988 survey were analyzed to determine the statistical relationships between socioeconomic characteristics and attitudes toward bioengineering. Education and gender were associated with consumers' attitudes, while geographic location, age, and income played a less prominent, yet statistically significant role.
Non-reciprocal fertility among species of the Aedes (Stegomyia) scutellaris group (Diptera: Culicidae)

The genetic basis of non-reciprocal fertility in theAedes scutellaris group has been viewed in relation to cytoplasmic incompatibility in theCulex pipiens complex and related to the presence or absence of rickettsia-like microorganismsWolbachia spp. A crossing scheme is proposed to explore the genetic basis of non-reciprocal fertility between two species by crosses involving a third mutually compatible species.
OP04.19: Ductus venosus dimensions and flow parameters throughout gestation

Objective: To present an investigation of range of the pulsatility index (PI) and the smallest diameter in the ductus venosus (DV) in normal fetuses with normal DV Doppler flow patterns (PI) throughout gestation. Methods: This was a cohort study performed by one sonographer between September 2004 and March 2006. The DV was identified by color aliasing of the vessel arising from the intraabdominal umbilical vein; the color scale then increased and the color gain reduced until the echogenic surfaces of the DV could be observed with near transparent color flow. At least 3 measurements were made in each fetus, all performed during fetal quiescence. SPSS software was used to create nomograms for DV size and PI against gestational age (GA) from 1000 cases of normal fetuses with normal outcomes. 1,175 normal fetuses age 12 to 40 weeks with average growth, were evaluated for Doppler flow in the DV after obtaining IRB approval. Results: 1039 cases (88.43%) of DV PI measurement and 1000 cases (85.11%) of DV size measurement were recorded as satisfactory measurements. A nomogram was constructed from the results, using the average of the three measurements for each fetus. The median size of the DV was linear across gestation. The DV PI was highest in first trimester. All of the fetuses were discharged after term delivery in normal condition.
Serum and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase1 increases plasma membrane wt-CFTR in human airway epithelial cells by inhibiting its endocytic retrieval.

Background: Chloride (Cl) secretion by the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) located in the apical membrane of respiratory epithelial cells plays a critical role in maintenance of the airway surface liquid and mucociliary clearance of pathogens. Previously, we and others have shown that the serum and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase-1 (SGK1) increases wild type CFTR (wt-CFTR) mediated Cl transport in Xenopus oocytes by increasing the amount of wt-CFTR protein in the plasma membrane. However, the effect of SGK1 on the membrane abundance of wt-CFTR in airway epithelial cells has not been examined, and the mechanism whereby SGK1 increases membrane wt-CFTR has also not been examined. Thus, the goal of this study was to elucidate the mechanism whereby SGK1 regulates the membrane abundance of wt-CFTR in human airway epithelial cells. Methods and Results: We report that elevated levels of SGK1, induced by dexamethasone, increase plasma membrane abundance of wt-CFTR. Reduction of SGK1 expression by siRNA (siSGK1) and inhibition of SGK1 activity by the SGK inhibitor GSK 650394 abrogated the ability of dexamethasone to increase plasma membrane wt-CFTR. Overexpression of a constitutively active SGK1 (SGK1-S422D) increased plasma membrane abundance of wt-CFTR. To understand the mechanism whereby SGK1 increased plasma membrane wt-CFTR, we examined the effects of siSGK1 and SGK1-S442D on the endocytic retrieval of wt-CFTR. While siSGK1 increased wt-CFTR endocytosis, SGK1-S442D inhibited CFTR endocytosis. Neither siSGK1 nor SGK1-S442D altered the recycling of endocytosed wt-CFTR back to the plasma membrane. By contrast, SGK1 increased the endocytosis of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Conclusion: This study demonstrates for the first time that SGK1 selectively increases wt-CFTR in the plasma membrane of human airway epithelia cells by inhibiting its endocytic retrieval from the membrane. © 2014 Bomberger et al.
Optimal carotid duplex velocity criteria for defining the severity of carotid in-stent restenosis

Background The optimal duplex ultrasound (DUS) velocity criteria to determine in-stent carotid restenosis are controversial. We previously reported the optimal DUS velocities for ≥30% in-stent restenosis. This prospective study will further define the optimal velocities in detecting various severities of in-stent restenosis: ≥30%, ≥50%, and 80% to 99%. Methods The analysis included 144 patients who underwent carotid artery stenting as a part of clinical trials. All patients had completion arteriograms and underwent postoperative carotid DUS imaging, which was repeated at 1 month and every 6 months thereafter. Patients with peak systolic velocities (PSVs) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) of ≥130 cm/s underwent carotid computed tomography (CT)/angiogram. The PSVs and end-diastolic velocities of the ICA and common carotid artery (CCA) and the PSV of the ICA/CCA ratios were recorded. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to determine the optimal velocity criteria for the diagnosis of ≥30, ≥50, and ≥80% restenosis. Results The mean follow-up was 20 months (range, 1-78 months). Available for analysis were 215 pairs of imaging (DUS vs CTA/angiography) studies. The accuracy of CTA vs carotid arteriogram was confirmed in a subset of 22 patients (κ = 0.81). The ROC analysis demonstrated that an ICA PSV of ≥154 cm/s was optimal for ≥30% stenosis with a sensitivity of 99%, specificity of 89%, positive-predictive value (PPV) of 96%, negative-predictive value (NPV) of 97%, and overall accuracy (OA) of 96%. An ICA EDV of 42 cm/s had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and OA in detecting ≥30% stenosis of 86%, 62%, 87%, 60%, and 80%, respectively. An ICA PSV of ≥224 cm/s was optimal for >50% stenosis with a sensitivity of 99%, specificity of 90%, PPV of 99%, NPV of 90%, and OA of 98%. An ICA EDV of 88 cm/s had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and OA in detecting ≥50% stenosis of 96%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 53%, and 96%. An ICA/CCA ratio of 3.439 had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and OA in detecting ≥50% stenosis of 96%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 58%, and 96%, respectively. An ICA PSV of ≥325 cm/s was optimal for >80% stenosis with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 99%, PPV of 100%, NPV of 88%, and OA of 99%. An ICA EDV of 119 cm/sec had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and OA in detecting ≥80% stenosis of 99%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 75%, and 99%, respectively. The PSV of the stented artery was a better predictor for in-stent restenosis than the end-diastolic velocity or ICA/CCA ratio. Conclusion The optimal DUS velocity criteria for in-stent restenosis of ≥30%, ≥50%, and ≥80% were the PSVs of 154, 224, and 325 cm/s, respectively.
Inhalation sensitization to trypsin.

Abstract A patient is reported who developed asthma during an eight-year occupational exposure to crude trypsin and chymotrypsin powders. Precipitation of asthmatic symptoms by trypsin was confirmed by provocative inhalation tests. The patient also manifested immediate sensitivity reactions when skin tested to a trypsin solution. Both inhalation and skin tests were negative in control subjects. The implication of sensitivity developing to aerosolized trypsin is discussed in relation to the long-term use of this agent in some asthmatic patients.
Building Mathematical Models and Biological Insight in an Introductory Biology Course

A growing body of literature testifies to the importance of quantitative reasoning skills in the 21st-century biology curriculum, and to the learning benefits associated with active pedagogies. The process of modeling a biological system provides an approach that integrates mathematical skills and higher-order thinking with existing course content knowledge. We describe a general strategy for teaching model-building in an introductory biology course, using the example of a model of an infectious disease outbreak. Preliminary assessment data suggest that working through the formal process of model construction may help students develop their scientific reasoning and communication skills.
Significance and measurement of coal mine productivity

Abstract Labor Productivity (LP), expressed in terms of tons per labor (man) shift, is commonly used in the coal mining industry as a general indicator of changes in the efficiency of the coal production process. However, labor productivity does not account for the changes of other principal factor inputs, such as capital investment, new technology and mining equipment, and quality of coal reserves. These factor inputs are embellished in Total Factor Productivity (TFP), a more precise indicator; the facets of which are outlined in the article. Therefore, Labor Productivity remains a traditional and convenient measure of the coal production process, but not only is it inaccurate, it often induces management to over-emphasize the role or contribution of labor.
Computational analysis of dense gas shock tube flow

Nonclassical phenomena associated with the classical dynamics of real gases in a conventional shock tube are studied. A TVD predictor-corrector (TVD-MacCormack) scheme with reflective endwall boundary conditions is used for the one-dimensional Euler equations to simulate the evolution of the wave field of a van der Waals gas. Depending upon the initial conditions of the gas, wave fields are produced that contain nonclassical phenomena such as expansion shocks, composite waves, splitting shocks, etc. In addition, the interactions of waves reflected from the endwalls produce both classical and nonclassical phenomena. Wave field evolution is depicted using plots of the flow variables at specific times and withx-t diagrams.
Totipotency, Twinning, and Ensoulment at Fertilization

From fertilization to approximately the sixteenth day of development, human embryonic cells are said to have the capacities of totipotency and monozygotic twinning, both of which are problematic to a theory of ensoulment at fertilization. In this article I will address the problems which these capacities pose to such a theory and present an interpretation of the biological data which renders ensoulment at fertilization more plausible. I will then argue that not only is an ensoulment theory consistent with current biological data on the human embryo, but it may offer an explanation for the phenomencon of monozygotic twinning.
On-Q System for Managing Trocar Site Pain after Operative Laparoscopy

The On-Q system provides long-term pain relief with continuous infusion of a local anesthetic directly into the trocar site after operative laparoscopy. An elastometric pump filled with bupivacaine HCl and a catheter, inserted by the surgeon, delivers 48 hours of anesthesia (100 ml) at a rate of 2 ml/hour. The pump is secured to the outer surgical dressing or to the patient's clothing with tape or an E clip provided in the package. The system can be removed by the patient when the infusion is complete.
Studies on the structure of nucleolusforming regions and related structures in the giant salivary gland chromosomes of Diptera

Salivary gland nuclei in Chironomus regularly show large, conspicuous nucleoli. In Sciara no true nucleoli have been found, but sometimes certain particular chromosome regions expand greatly, forming ‘puffs’ or ‘bulbs,’ somewhat nucleolus-like in nature. Detailed study has been made of the chromosome structure in the affected regions in both genera. In the nucleolar regions of Chironomus the banded structure of the chromosome is distinctly modified. In the case of the large nucleolus the chromosome breaks up into a heavy network in which solid discs are replaced by interconnected chromatic spheres and granules, extending out somewhat into the clear nucleolar substance. In the case of the smaller nucleolus, Balbiani's ring, the banded structure is less disturbed. A chromatic network, resembling a system of rootlets, runs out from the chromatic bands into the clear nucleolar substance. In Sciara ocellaris the ‘puff’ regions are at times normally banded, but at other times in the condition described as ‘puffed.’ The same is true of the ‘bulb’ regions. The relation between nucleoli, puffs and bulbs is discussed. Also that between ‘heterochromatin’ and ‘euchromatin.’ Evidence seems to indicate that the latter are merely extremes in a continuous range involving different relative amounts of chromatic and achromatic materials. The ‘puff’ regions appear to be structurally similar to the chromocenter in Drosophila.
Glucocorticoid effect on complement fixation

INITIAL REPORTS THAT a single intravenous injection of endotoxic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) depletes serum hemolytic complement focused attention on the role of the complement system in thp pathogenesis of endotoxic or septic shock [4, II]. In vitro studies have revealed that incubation of complement with LPS leads to the formation of hist,amine-releasing factors and chemotactic products [6, lo]. We previously reported that cells of the rat peritoneal cavity released histamine when incubated wit,h LPS and guinea pig complement [S]. Particularly interesting was the observation that the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone phosphate prevented histamine release in this in vitro system. This steroid and others, both synthetic and naturally occurring, afforded marked protection in animals given lethal doses of LPS. The ability of these agents to stabilize biological membranes is frequently cited as a basis for this protection [12]. The possibility should also be considered that steroids possess antiendotoxic properties by virtue of their demonstrated ability to inhibit complcment activity [3]. To establish additional information relevant to this hypothesis, we studied the effect of several steroid compounds 011 complement fixation mcdiated by LPS and the antisera of J,PSimmunized rats.
Glucocorticoid regulation of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein expression in normal human osteoblast-like cells

Glucocorticoid (GC) modulates insulin-like growth factor (IGF) action in bone through mechanisms that are complex and not well understood. Because the family of IGF-binding proteins (IGFBP-1 through -6) is important in the regulation of IGF availability and bioactivity, we examined the effect of GC on IGFBP expression in normal human osteoblast-like (hOB) cells. As assessed by Western ligand blot, hOB cells release IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, and a 31-kilodalton IGFBP, which appeared to be IGFBP-5. Northern analysis revealed that hOB cells express abundant IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, IGFBP-5, and IGFBP-6 mRNA, with barely detectable IGFBP-1 mRNA. GC treatment resulted in time- and dose-dependent decreases in IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, and 31-kilodalton IGFBP levels in culture medium, with corresponding decreases in IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, and IGFBP-5 mRNA levels. In addition, GC treatment increased steady state levels of IGFBP-1 mRNA and did not alter IGFBP-6 mRNA levels. Although hOB cells secrete an acid-activated IGFBP-3 protease and an IGF-dependent IGFBP-4 protease, GC had little effect on these protease activities and did not alter degradation of the secreted IGFBPs. Our results indicate that GC has dramatic effects on IGFBP gene expression and suggest that differential regulation of IGFBPs by GC may modulate hOB cell responsiveness to IGFs.
Serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone concentrations during the menstrual cycle as determined by radioimmunoassays.

ABSTRACT Human FSH and LH have been quantitated by specific radioimmunoassay techniques in sera obtained from 9 subjects during the course of 12 menstrual cycles. The time of ovulation was assessed by basal body temperatures and urinary pregnanediol excretion. Two peaks in FSH levels of similar magnitude were observed in 8 out of the 11 ovulatory cycles; the first during the early proliferative phase, the second at or near the time of ovulation. In one subject no midcycle peak was observed and in 2 others a third peak occurred during the latter part of the cycle. Prior to the next menses serum FSH fell to very low levels in all subjects. Serum LH showed a single midcycle peak in 10 of the 11 ovulatory cycles. Pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory LH levels were of similar magnitude. The one anovulatory cycle was characterized by a delayed appearance of the first FSH peak and no LH peak of ovulatory magnitude.
Recognition of subarachnoid hemorrhage

The medical records of 109 patients who presented to the emergency department during a five-year period with proven nontraumatic, spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities used, and accuracy of diagnosis by emergency physicians were analyzed. The most common historical features were headache (81 patients, or 74%), nausea or vomiting (85 patients, or 77%), and loss of consciousness (58 patients, or 53%). Nonexertional activities preceding SAH were more frequent than exertional events (57% vs 21%). Neurologic findings were present in 70 patients (64%) and consisted primarily of altered levels of consciousness. Thirty-eight patients (35%) had nuchal rigidity. Ninety-six emergency cranial computed tomography scans were performed, of which 91 were diagnostic for SAH (sensitivity, 95%). Lumbar puncture was performed on two patients with normal computed tomography scans and revealed bloody spinal fluid. The overall diagnostic accuracy by emergency physicians was 85%. The correct diagnosis was delayed in 16 patients (15%), the majority of whom had headaches and normal neurologic examinations. Atypical symptoms, the warning leak syndrome, and the need for prompt diagnosis and therapy are reviewed.
‘I connected’: reflection and biography in teacher learning toward inclusion

In this paper I examine the ways that prospective teachers studying in a university‐based, graduate‐level teacher education programme engage in reflection toward making meaning of disability. I focus on the background experiences, identities, and knowledge that teachers draw from to make meaning of social and cultural models of disability, and which relate to their developing ideas about inclusive teaching practices. Providing prospective teachers a forum to reflect and find connections between their experiences — more often as persons who do not identify as disabled — and persons with disabilities suggests one way that teacher educators can build curriculum that counters a perception of students labelled with disabilities as ‘others’, and subsequently supports teachers to propose directions for inclusive teaching.
Skin grafting in severe burns

Abstract 1. 1. An experience with 203 thin skin grafts and 278 thick skin grafts used for the purpose of alleviating the damage caused by a severe burn is alluded to briefly. 2. 2. Insistence on early resurfacing of granulating surfaces caused by burns is stressed because of the marked decrease in the period of convalescence and also because of the extent to which the functional incapacitation from contractures and cosmetic blemishes can be alleviated. 3. 3. Stress should be laid upon fundamental principles and methods of skin grafting in contradistinction to the use of unusual types of grafts with or without a “far-fetched” method of placement, puncturing or dressing, as we believe these fundamental methods practically always tend to real success. 4. 4. The general principles of resurfacing an unhealed granulating surface can be discussed under the heading of the relationship of area and depth to the amount of contractural deformity; the preparation of the granulating surface for resurfacing, factors which promote reepithelization and the type of graft preferable. 5. 5. The factors which are responsible for a healed cicatricial contracture should be stressed. The technique of correction of healed contractures must be emphasized. The average amount of final contracture of the grafted area, the chances of a good “take” and the various types of grafts preferable for certain locations influence one in the selection of the type of graft to be used. 6. 6. The use of “calibrated grafts” seems to herald a definite step forward in the art of skin grafting and the final results obtained by their use are considerably better than those obtained previously.
Review of hollow waveguide technology

Hollow waveguides are an attractive alternative to conventional solid-core IR fibers. The hollow core structure is well suited for the transmission of high laser powers as well as for some broadband sensor applications such as gas sensing and radiometry. Over the past 15 years a variety of fabrication techniques and hollow configurations have been studied. Today losses for these unique guides are as low as 0.1 dB/m and laser powers as high as 2.7 kW have been transmitted. In this paper we review the current status of hollow waveguides and indicate some of the most promising applications for this technology.
A remarkable pyranose to furanose isomerization mediated by an “anomeric" silyloxy function

Abstract The conversion of3 to6 is accomplished in high yields in three steps. The sequence greatly simplifies access to eleutherobin1. The conversion of7 to6 is accomplished in high yields in two steps. The sequence greatly simplifies access to eleutherobin. Download : Download full-size image
I/O performance of virtualized cloud environments

The scientific community is exploring the suitability of cloud infrastructure to handle High Performance Computing (HPC) applications. The goal of Magellan, a project funded through DOE ASCR, is to investigate the potential role of cloud computing to address the computing needs of the Department of Energy's Office of Science, especially for mid-range computing and data-intensive applications which are not served through existing DOE centers today. Prior work has shown that applications with significant communication or I/O tend to perform poorly in virtualized cloud environments. However, there is a limited understanding of the I/O characteristics in virtualized cloud environments. This paper will present our results in benchmarking the I/O performance over different cloud and HPC platforms to identify the major bottlenecks in existing infrastructure. We compare the I/O performance using IOR benchmark on two cloud platforms - Amazon and the Magellan cloud testbed. We analyze the performance of different storage options available, different instance types in multiple availability zones. Finally, we perform large-scale tests in order to analyze the variability in the I/O patterns over time and region. Our results highlight the overhead and variability in I/O performance on both public and private cloud solutions. Our results will help applications decide between the different storage options enabling applications to make effective choices.
Charged magnetic brane correlators and twisted Virasoro algebras

Prior work using gauge/gravity duality has established the existence of a quantum critical point in the phase diagram of $3+1$-dimensional gauge theories at finite charge density and background magnetic field. The critical theory, obtained by tuning the dimensionless charge density to magnetic field ratio, exhibits nontrivial scaling in its thermodynamic properties, and an associated nontrivial dynamical critical exponent. In the present work, we analytically compute low-energy correlation functions in the background of the charged magnetic brane solution to $4+1$-dimensional Einstein-Maxwell-Chern-Simons theory, which represents the bulk description of the critical point. Results are obtained for neutral scalar operators, the stress tensor, and the $U(1)$-current. The theory is found to exhibit a twisted Virasoro algebra, constructed from a linear combination of the original stress tensor and chiral $U(1)$-current. The effective speed of light in the IR is renormalized downward for one chirality, but not the other, by finite density, a behavior that is consistent with a Luttinger liquid description of fermions in the lowest Landau level. The results obtained here do not directly shed light on the mechanism driving the phase transition, and we comment on why this is so.
Load balancing for clustered web farms

We propose a scheme which attempts to optimally balance the load on the servers of a clustered web farm. Solving this performance problem is crucial to achieving minimal average response time for customer requests, and thus ultimately to achieving maximal customer throughput. This short paper gives an overview of three new mathematical contributions. First, we describe a goal setting algorithm to determine the load on each server which minimizes the average customer request response time given the possibly overlapping cluster assignments of sites to servers and the current customer request load for each site. The cluster assignments, which of necessity can only be changed relatively infrequently, have a major effect on the optimal response time in the goal setting component. So, second, we describe a static algorithm which determines good assignments of sites to servers. Third, and finally, we describe a dynamic algorithm which handles the real-time server load balancing, reacting to the fluctuating customer request load in order to come as close as possible to achieving the idealized optimal average response time. We examine the performance of the overall load balancing scheme via simulation experiments.
Sufficient conditions for the convergence of monotonic mathematicalprogramming algorithms

A global convergence theory for a broad class of ''monotonic'' nonlinear programming algorithms is given. The key difference between the approach presented here and previous work in this area by Zangwill, Meyer, and others lies in the use of an appropriate definition of a fixed point of a point-to-set mapping. The use of this fixed-point concept allows both a simplification and a strengthening and extension of previous results. In particular, actual convergence of the entire sequence of iterates (as opposed to subsequential convergence) and point-of-attraction theorems are established under weak hypotheses. Examples of the application of this theory to feasible direction algorithms are given.
Accurate enzymatic cleavage in vitro of a 2'-deoxyribose-substituted ribonuclease III processing signal.

Abstract To assess the involvement of the RNA cleavage site-proximal 2′ hydroxyl group in the RNase III catalytic mechanism, a specific processing substrate was chemically synthesized to contain a 2′-deoxyribose residue at the scissile phosphodiester bond. The RNA substrate, corresponding to the phage T7 R1.1 primary processing signal, can be accurately cleaved in vitro by RNase III. A fully deoxyribose-substituted R1.1 processing signal is not cleaved by RNase III, nor does it excess inhibit cleavage of unmodified substrate. These results show that the 2′ hydroxyl group proximal to the scissile bond is not an essential participant in the RNase III processing reaction; however, other 2′ hydroxyl groups are important for substrate reactivity, and may be involved in establishing proper double helical conformation, and/or specific substrate contacts with RNase III.
Contemporary analysis of pelvic and para-aortic metastasis in endometrial cancer using the SEER registry

Abstract Objective To determine the incidence of regional lymph node involvement for early-stage endometrial cancer by using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry. Methods In a retrospective study, data were analyzed from patients who were diagnosed with stage IA–IIB endometrioid adenocarcinoma and were treated between 1998 and 2003. The incidence of pelvic and para-aortic lymph node involvement was determined. Results Data were analyzed from 4052 patients. Incidences of pelvic and para-aortic lymph node metastases were: 1% and 0% in stage IA, grade 1 disease; 2% and 0% in IA, grade 2; 2% and 1% in IA, grade 3; 2% and 0% in IB, grade 1; 3% and 1% in IB, grade 2; 3% and 2% in IB, grade 3; 7% and 3% in IC, grade 1; 8% and 5% in IC, grade 2; 12% and 8% in IC, grade 3; 7% and 3% in IIA, grade 1; 10% and 4% in IIA, grade 2; 10% and 5% in IIA, grade 3; 8% and 4% in IIB, grade 1; 13% and 8% in IIB, grade 2; and 19% and 12% in IIB, grade 3. Conclusion Incidences of pelvic and para-aortic metastases were lower than previously reported. Patients at higher stages and grades had a 10% or higher risk of lymph node involvement and might benefit from aggressive therapy.
Rapid Microwave‐Assisted Solvothermal Synthesis of Methanol Tolerant Pt–Pd–Co Nanoalloy Electrocatalysts

We report here a microwave-assisted solvothermal (MW-ST) method to synthesise carbon-supported multimetallic nanostructured alloys of Pt, Pd and Co with high crystallinity and homogeneity for electrocatalytic application in fuel cells. Multimetallic nanoalloy electrocatalysts have been synthesised by a one-pot, rapid MW-ST method within 15 min at <300 °C without any post-annealing in reducing gas atmospheres. For a comparison, same multimetallic alloys were also synthesised by heat treatment of co-precipitated metals. Significant differences were observed in the phase structure and surface composition of the alloys synthesised by the two methods, which were rationalised based on the synthesis procedures adopted. Further, the multimetallic alloys were also explored for their electrocatalytic applications as cathode catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The multimetallic alloys, synthesised by the MW-ST method, show much higher ORR activity compared to their counterparts synthesised by the conventional borohydride reduction method. While the ORR activity of Pt70Pd20Co10 is comparable to that of commercial Pt, the ORR activity of Pt50Pd30Co20 in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) is superior to that of commercial Pt at high methanol concentrations due to its high tolerance to methanol that may crossover from the anode to the cathode.
Surface Chemistry and Gas Hydrates in Flow Assurance

A review of surface chemistry concepts is presented, with the principal objective of identifying interfacial phenomena and surface chemistry interactions involved in gas hydrate formation and agglomeration in oil and gas pipelines. There are five types of interfaces where gas hydrates may form and aggregate: gas/liquid, liquid/liquid, gas/solid, liquid/solid, and solid/solid; where the gas is the hydrocarbon gas, liquid is either oil, water, or condensate, and solid is either gas hydrate or the pipe wall surface. A review of fundamental interfacial concepts can help create a better understanding of phenomena at these interfaces, and can help industry move from hydrate prevention to risk management. Two areas of surface chemistry have been selected to illustrate the concepts and mechanisms associated with these systems: surfactants and emulsions. Examples from the literature pertaining to gas hydrates are presented for each system.
Power noise rejection and device noise analysis at the reference level of ramp ADC

Sources of noise that corrupt the reference level VREF during a ramp ADC operation are identified and analyzed. For power noise analysis, PSR of bandgap reference and current generator are investigated through small signal circuits. For device noise appearing at the reference level, noise contribution from each device is expressed in terms of design variables. The identified design variables are arranged in a table to serve as a guide for low noise CMOS imager design.
The dynamic response of thin membranes by the moiré method

This investigation considers the suitability of the moire method as a technique for determining the dynamic response of thin membranes. Specimen preparation, test apparatus and test results are reported for a circular and a rectangular membrane. The applicability of the method for measuring transient as well as periodic behavior is discussed. Theoretical and experimental values are compared for the case of periodic response.
Southern African crustal evolution and composition: Constraints from receiver function studies

[1] Stacking of approximately 1500 radial receiver functions recorded at about 80 broadband seismic stations deployed in southern Africa reveals systematic spatial variations in the ratio of crustal P and S wave velocities (Φ), crustal thickness (H), and the amplitude of the converted Moho phases (R). The eastern Zimbabwe and the southern Kaapvaal cratons are characterized by small H (∼38 km), small Φ (∼1.73), and large R (∼0.15) values, suggesting that the relatively undisturbed Archean crust beneath southern Africa is separated from the mantle by a sharp Moho and is felsic in composition. The Limpopo belt, which was created by a collisional event at 2.7 Ga, displays large H (∼43 km) but similar Φ and R values relative to the cratonic areas. The Bushveld Mafic Intrusion Complex and its surrounding areas show large Φ (∼1.78), large H (∼43 km), and small R (∼0.11) values, reflecting the intrusion of mafic material into the original crust as a result of the Bushveld event at 2.05 Ga. Excluding the Bushveld, the spatially consistent and age-independent low Φ accentuate the difference between felsic crustal composition and more mafic island arcs that are thought to be the likely source of continental material. Within such an island arc model, our data, combined with xenolith data excluding mantle delamination in cratonic environments, suggest that the modification to a felsic composition (e.g., by the partial melting of basalt and removal of residue by delamination) is restricted to have occurred during the collision between the arcs and the continent.
DO HERBAL AGENTS HAVE A PLACE IN THE TREATMENT OF SLEEP PROBLEMS IN LONG-TERM CARE?

Sleep disruption is common in the long-term care setting. This article discusses the available literature on 2 herbal approaches to sleep problems in long-term care. The largest body of evidence exists for the use of the dietary/herbal supplements valerian and melatonin. While these agents appear to have a modest positive effect on sleep quality among older adults, most studies were small in size and included only subjective assessments of sleep quality. In addition, it is unclear whether these agents pose risks to long-term care residents because of potential drug interactions. Additional research is needed before making conclusive recommendations about the use of these interventions for sleep in the long-term care setting.