cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gadgets, approximation, and linear programming: Improved hardness results for cut and satisfiability problems

The notion of a gadget is a central element in combinatorial reductions. Informally speaking, a gadget is a finite structure which converts a constraint of one optimization problem into constraints of a different one. Despite their central role, no uniform method has been developed to construct gadgets required for a given reduction. In fact till recently no formal definition seems to have been given. In a recent work Bellare, Goldreich, and Sudan presented a definition motivated by their work on non-approximability results. We use their definition and come up with a linear-programming based method for constructing gadgets. Using this new method we present a number of new (computer constructed) gadgets for reductions to and from MAX 3SAT, MAX 2SAT, MAX CUT, MAX DICUT, etc. The new gadgets improve hardness results for MAX CUT and MAX DICUT showing that approximating these problems to within a factor of 16/17 and 12/13 respectively are NP-hard. Interestingly, we can also use the improved reductions to present an improved approximation algorithm for MAX 3SAT which guarantees an approximation ratio of .801.
Dorian Shainin's Variables Search Procedure: A Critical Assessment

In this paper we discuss Variables Search, one of Dorian Shainin's statistical tools for quality improvement. We are critical in our evaluation of Variables Search as an experimental design method for uncovering important factors. We find that there is ..
Development by Technology Seeding

Technology is critical to international development, but the theory and practice of leveraging technology for humanitarian goals is not well developed. Technology Seeding is thus presented as a comprehensive model that draws upon proven design and technology transfer scholarship. Key characteristics include (i) design as the point of intervention, (ii) the building of technology from first principles (both scientific and disciplinary) and (iii) local adaptation. A case study that led in part to the methodology's development is presented. Technology Seeding, which enables and empowers the marginalized, is shown to be well suited for socially just long-term sustainable development. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cladistic Assignment of Specimens to Species of the Cystoporate Bryozoan Genera Strotopora Ulrich and Cliotrypa Ulrich and Bassler Using Gap-Coded Characters

Gap-coding permits the use of continuous metric characters in cladistic analyses. Character means are converted to integer equivalents by placing character state divisions in the locations of phenetic breaks between specimen clusters, under the assumption that these breaks represent the locations of bottlenecks in character distributions. Similarities and differences between specimens from closely related species of cystoporate bryozoans were evaluated for the first time by converting continuous morphometric measurements into gap-coded binary and multistate characters and analyzing them cladistically, rather than just phenetically, across multiple species of Strotopora, Cliotrypa ramosa and Fistulipora compressa.Our results demonstrate that cladistic analysis of gap-coded morphological characters can be effective in resolving phylogenetic relationships at low taxonomic levels (within and among genera) while objectively highlighting both the morphological features that specimens (taxa) share and those characteristics that differentiate them. Differences in cystiphragm abundances and sizes, especially in the proximal portions of colonies, discriminate between species of Strotopora. Colony size and growth form, abundances and lengths of hemiphragms, and sizes of cystopores discriminate between Strotopora and the closely related genus Cliotrypa. Cladistic patterns indicate that Strotopora foveolata Ulrich is a valid species with Strotopora dermata as its junior subjective synonym. Fistulipora compressa is reassigned to the genus Strotopora whereas a decision on the taxonomic status of Cliotrypa ramosa requires a broader cladistic analysis of fistuliporine genera.
Hydrogen and sulfur from hydrogen sulfide—IV. Quenching the effluent from a solar furnace

Abstract Solar thermochemical production of H 2 and sulfur from H 2 S were studied, using a 4.2 m solar furnace as a source of process heat. We used two reactor configurations. The independent variables were temperature, feed rate and pressure. Hydrogen production rate, yield, and the quench fraction (fractional yield) were measured. High yields (of the order 0.5) and quench fractions (of the order 0.7) were obtained over a range of temperatures and feed rates. Yields were a monotonically increasing, almost linear, function of the temperature. The observations are rationalized by a kinetic model that concludes that gas phase reaction rates are too low to account for the observed yields; a good reactor should embody the heating of the feed stream in contact with a surface to facilitate decomposition of H 2 S, and the product stream should be quenched in such a way as to minimize surface reactions. The reactors are described. Mullite, Al 2 O 3 , Fiberfrax and ZrO 2 are suitable materials of construction from a chemical standpoint. Mullite underwent some sintering, deformation and thinning in the hottest parts of the reactor, where it may have been exposed to high temperature excursions and some cracking, apparently due to thermal stress, where it came in contact with a separator.
Rhizosphere pH and aluminum chemistry of red oak and honeylocust seedlings

Abstract Toxicity from Al solubilized by an increase in soil acidity is a possible factor linking acid deposition to forest decline. Plants are known to alter the pH of soil surrounding their roots independent of acid deposition sources. The rhizosphere soil from red oak (Quercus rubra L.) and honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos L.) was characterized with respect to soil pH and Al chemistry. The rhizosphere soil was obtained by using two methods: (1) using the thin soil layer plate method; and (2) removing the soil adhering to roots from plants grown in traditional pots. In the thin soil layer study, the pH of the control soil was 5.12 while rhizosphere pH decreased to 4.85 for red oak and 5.01 for honeylocust. The decrease in pH led to increases in l m KCl cxtractable Al and water-soluble Al in the rhizosphere soils. Due to the limited volume of rhizosphere soil recovered from the pot method, only soil pH was measured. The pH values were 5.02, 5.20 and 5.03 for red oak, honeylocust and control soils, respectively. These results imply that rhizosphere soil obtained by different methods will differ greatly in chemical properties. Moreover, red oak and honeylocust seedlings may alter the pH of the rhizosphere soil. Plant-soil interactions which alter pH and Al status of the rhizosphere need to be considered when assessing the role of acid deposition induced Al toxicity as a cause of forest decline.
Auger Chemical Analysis of Oxides on Ni-Cr Alloys

Oxides formed on four Ni-Cr dental casting alloys in three temperature domains and in two different atmospheres were chemically analyzed using the Scanning Auger Microprobe. Distributions of Ni and Cr in the oxide layers varied with the alloy; oxidation in air resulted in apparently thicker oxide layers than did oxidation in a reduced oxygen atmosphere.
Rosenblueth's modal combination rule for systems with non‐classical damping

A simple rule is derived to combine, within the framework of a complex mode superposition, the maximum modal responses of systems such as soil-structure and structure-equipment systems, for which closely spaced natural frequencies are likely, and for which, because of the large difference in the damping values of their various components, the assumption of an orthogonal damping matrix may lead to significant errors. The rule constitutes the generalization of Rosenblueth's rule for systems with closely spaced natural frequencies and classical modes, and is expressed in terms of their complex mode shapes and natural frequencies. Its derivation is based on the theory of a complex modal analysis for systems with non-classical modes of vibration and on Rosenblueth's original derivation. As in this original derivation, earthquake ground motions are modelled as a stationary white noise process, but the formulae obtained under this assumption are modified later on to account for the transient nature of actual earthquakes. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the application of the rule, and a comparative study with numerical integration solutions is performed to assess its accuracy. In this comparative study, it predicts the numerical integration solutions with an average error of 0.3 per cent.
Pinna-based spectral cues for sound localization in cat.

Abstract The directional dependence of the transfer function from free field plane waves to a point near the tympanic membrane (TM) was measured in anesthetized domestic cats. A probe tube microphone was placed ≈ 3 mm from the TM from beneath the head in order to keep the pinna intact. Transfer functions were computed as the ratio of the spectrum of a click recorded near the TM to the spectrum of the click in freefield. We analyze the transfer functions in three frequency ranges: low frequencies ( 18 kHz) where the transfer functions vary greatly with source location. Because no two source directions produce the same transfer function, the spectrum of a broadband sound at the TM could serve as a sound localization cue for both elevation and azimuth. In particular, we show that source direction is uniquely determined, for source directions in front of the cat, from the frequencies of the midfrequency spectral notches in the two ears. The validity of the transfer functions as measures of the acoustic input to the auditory system is considered in terms of models of sound propagation in the ear canal.
Preemptive Coil Occlusion of Major Aberrant Renal Artery to Allow Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Crossed Fused Renal Ectopia

Background Crossed fused renal ectopia and other similar renal anomalies are nearly always associated with major renal arterial, venous, and collecting system anomalies. These complicate both open repair and endovascular repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). We present a case of successful EVAR of an AAA with crossed fused renal ectopia. Patient Description A 76-year-old man was followed with an AAA and was also noted to have crossed fused renal ectopia. The aneurysm increased in diameter to 5.5 cm, and repair was recommended. Anatomy appeared challenging for open repair but also for EVAR because of a highly angulated neck and the major renal artery to the ectopic segment originating from the upper part of the aneurysm. However, EVAR appeared feasible if this renal artery could be sacrificed. Coil embolization of this renal artery was performed before EVAR. The patient's renal function was stable, and he suffered only a few days of abdominal pain. EVAR was performed 25 days later and required adjunctive procedures to eliminate a type 1 endoleak as had been feared because of the highly angulated neck. The patient suffered no decline in renal function and remained well 6 months later with no evidence for endoleak or other complication. Comment Renal anomalies present major challenges in aortic aneurysm repair. Preemptive sacrifice of a portion of the renal mass may allow successful repair without apparent deleterious effects.
VisWeek 2012 Keynote Speaker

A professional biography of Mary Czerwinski of Microsoft Research is presented. Her speech, which is not included, was entitled: "Trends and Topics from the Last 17 Years at Microsoft Research."
Determinación de los modelos de biodeterioro en elementos de madera producidos por hongos de pudrición en edificaciones de la zona de conservación histórica de Valparaíso, Chile

Resumen es: Diversas edificaciones y estructuras construidas en madera son atacadas por hongos de pudricion, provocando danos de tipo estetico y estructural, por lo ...
The supra-acetabular fossa and groove: a skeletal marker for Northwest European mesolithic populations

A nonmetric trait, known as the supra-acetabular fossa and groove, is described for European Upper Paleolithic and mesolithic populations. This morphological feature consists of a pit posterior or superior to the anterior-inferior iliac spine and an associated groove which arcs over the roof of the acetabulum. Presence of the trait seems to be primarily related to the origin of the reflected head of rectus femoris. The trait is variable in its expression, shows an increase in definition with age, and occurs equally in males and females. Although the trait is commonly found in pre-Upper Paleolithic hominids, it is extremely rare in the Upper Paleolithic, limited to a single occurrence in the Oberkassel 2 female. In the Mesolithic, except for two innominates from Vlasac (Yugoslavia), the trait is found only in NW European populations, especially Skateholm (Sweden) and Henriksholm-Bogebakken (Denmark) where it occurs in more than 50% of the known pelves. Given the trait’s restricted geographic distribution and high occurrence in Skateholm and Henriksholm-Bogebakken, it is suggested the supra-acetabular fossa and groove represents a skeletal marker for NW European Mesolithic populations. As such, it provides evidence for the development of social territories in the early Holocene.
Model-independent comparison of direct versus indirect detection of supersymmetric dark matter

We compare the rate for scattering of neutralinos from nuclei with the flux of muons induced by energetic neutrinos from neutralino annihilation in the Sun and Earth. We consider scalar and spin interactions of neutralinos. We find that the event rate in a kg of Ge is roughly equivalent to that in a 10^5–1^07-m^2 muon detector for a neutralino with primarily scalar coupling to nuclei. For a spin-coupled neutralino, the event rate in a 50-g H detector is roughly that in a 10–500-m^2 muon detector. Expected backgrounds favor forthcoming elastic-scattering detectors for scalar couplings while neutrino detectors are favored for spin couplings.
Conformational analysis of possible biologically active (receptor-bound) conformations of peptides derived from cholecystokinin, cerulein and little gastrin and the opiate peptide, Met-enkephalin.

Possible biologically active (receptor-bound) conformations of peptides derived from cholecystokinin (CCK) have been deduced using conformational analysis combined with comparative studies of their biological specificities. Two peptides, the completely active carboxyl terminal heptapeptide from CCK (CCK-7), whose sequence is Tyr-Met-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2, and the carboxyl terminal heptapeptide from cerulein (CER-7) which has the same sequence as for CCK-7 except for replacement of Met 2 with a Thr 2, both stimulate peripheral receptors in gall bladder, pancreas, and pylorus in the gastrointestinal system. In contrast, two other very similar peptides, the last four residues of CCK (CCK-4) whose sequence is Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2, and the carboxyl terminal hexapeptide of little gastrin (LGA-6, Tyr-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2, i.e., residue 2 deleted relative to CCK-7 and CER-7 sequences), interact specifically with gastrin receptors and not at all or very weakly with peripheral receptors. All of these peptides react with CCK receptors in the central nervous system, especially in forebrain. The results in the GI tract suggest that the peptides active on peripheral receptors adopt structures that are significantly different from those of the peptides that interact with gastrin receptors. We have generated all of the many low energy conformations for each of these peptides. By retaining only the conformations that are the same for peptides within the same group and then rejecting those resulting conformations that are the same for the peptides in the two different groups, we can greatly reduce the possible active conformations for the peptides within each class.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Development of a small vortex shedding flow meter for hypergolic propellants

A vortex shedding flow meter was developed to measure flow rates of hypergolic propellants with no moving parts. The inside diameter of the flow meter (0.41 inches) was smaller than any present commercially available meter. Experiments were run to determine the best shape and size of the shedder bar and the best position of the pressure sensor relative to the shedder bar. Problems encountered and overcome in the development of the flow meter were described. The volume flow rate through the meter was linear with vortex shedding frequency to within 1 % of the full scale reading (15 .gallons per minute). The pressure drop through the meter at full scale was 12.6 psi. Static pressure requirements to prevent cavitation were also discussed.
Thermal Equilibrium of High- and Low-Spin Forms of Cytochrome P450 BM-3: Repositioning of the Substrate?

We demonstrate that cytochrome P450 BM-3 in complex with N-palmitoylglycine undergoes a spin state change between room temperature, where optimal activity is seen, and low temperatures, where X-ray diffraction characterization has been carried out. On the basis of NMR measurements of the full-length protein, this spin state change is likely to be accompanied by a general structural rearrangement in the enzyme pocket. The substrate remains bound at all temperatures. We propose that the substrate may "slide" from a position directly atop the heme (thus displacing the ligating water) to the more distant position (thus restoring the ligating water) as the temperature is lowered. This proposal is evaluated on the basis of computational modeling of the protein-ligand complex, using a novel induced fit methodology. We thereby generate a structure with the ligand in close contact with the heme, similar in energy to the experimental structure. With this combination of theory and experiment we provide a specific proposal of how ligands may be positioned for chemistry for this enzyme.
The status of the sensitization/kindling hypothesis of bipolar disorder

Kindling refers to repeated, intermittent, subthreshold stimulation that evokes increasingly widespread biochemical and physiologic manifestations culminating in a progression of behavioral abnormalities, and eventually full-blown seizures, which if sufficiently repeated, become spontaneous. Since Kraepelin initially observed that untreated bipolar illness tends to be progressive, and that initial episodes of mania and depression may be precipitated by stressors, but with repetition may occur more autonomously and with a shorter well interval, the basic tenets of the kindling hypothesis for the affective disorders have been largely validated. Not only is there evidence of stress sensitization (an increasing sensitivity to psychosocial stressors), but there is now also strong evidence of episode sensitization (the increased vulnerability to recurrence with shorter well intervals as a function of the number of prior episodes). However, with appropriate psychotherapeutic and pharmacotherapeutic intervention, episodes and episode progression can be prevented. Whether or not underlying illness progression can be prevented (which has not been definitively tested), the clinician and patient have nothing to lose if they act as if this were the case and engage in early effective pharmacoprophylaxis.
A preparation technique for analysis of explosives in plant tissues

Abstract A preparation technique for analysis of explosives compounds in plant tissue has been developed. The technique utilizes acetone extraction followed by ultrafiltration clean up. Ultrafiltration removes the large quantities of chlorophyll and polar organics that interfere with UV/Vis detection used in high‐performance liquid chromatography. The procedure was tested with 14 explosives‐related compounds spiked into reed canary grass extracts and method detection limits (MDLs) were calculated. In addition, the overall extraction efficiency for RDX in parrot feather and reed canary grass tissues was determined using 14C labeled compound. Scientists may find the technique useful for plant analysis at waste sites and for phytoremediation research.
Crystal Structure of Human Heme Oxygenase-1 in a Complex with Biliverdin†

Heme oxygenase oxidatively cleaves heme to biliverdin, leading to the release of iron and CO through a process in which the heme participates both as a cofactor and as a substrate. Here we report the crystal structure of the product, iron-free biliverdin, in a complex with human HO-1 at 2.19 A. Structural comparisons of the human biliverdin-HO-1 structure with its heme complex and the recently published rat HO-1 structure in a complex with the biliverdin-iron chelate [Sugishima, M., Sakamoto, H., Higashimoto, Y., Noguchi, M., and Fukuyama, K. (2003) J. Biol. Chem. 278, 32352-32358] show two major differences. First, in the absence of an Fe-His bond and solvent structure in the active site, the distal and proximal helices relax and adopt an "open" conformation which most likely encourages biliverdin release. Second, iron-free biliverdin occupies a different position and orientation relative to heme and the biliverdin-iron complex. Biliverdin adopts a more linear conformation and moves from the heme site to an internal cavity. These structural results provide insight into the rate-limiting step in HO-1 catalysis, which is product, biliverdin, release.
Phosphate compounds in red cells of the chicken and duck embryo and hatchling.

Abstract Large changes were found in red cell concns of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate, inositol polyphosphate, ATP and inorganic phosphate in the chicken and the White Pekin duck during embryonic development and soon after hatching.
Intravenous Dofetilide, a Class III Antiarrhythmic Agent, for the Termination of Sustained Atrial Fibrillation or Flutter

Abstract Objectives. This study sought to determine the safety and efficacy of a single bolus of intravenous dofetilide, a pure class III antiarrhythmic agent, for the termination of sustained atrial fibrillation or flutter. Background. Dofetilide is a highly selective blocker of the rapid component of the delayed rectifier current causing action potential prolongation. These effects, and preliminary clinical data, suggest that it may be effective in the treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter. Methods. Ninety-one patients with sustained atrial fibrillation (75 patients) or flutter (16 patients) were entered into a double-blind, randomized multicenter study of one of two doses of dofetilide (4 or 8 μg/kg body weight) or placebo. Results. Dofetilide effectively terminated the arrhythmia in 31% of patients receiving 8 μg/kg, a statistically significant difference from those receiving 4 μg/kg (conversion rate 12.5%, p Conclusions. Intravenous dofetilide can convert sustained atrial fibrillation or flutter to sinus rhythm. However, its efficacy is greater in flutter—a response that contrasts with the poorer response seen with class I agents. This finding potentially represents an important advance in the pharmacologic termination of atrial flutter. (J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:385–90)
Microwave engineering education using web-based instruction

The electronic information transfer revolutionizes the flow of information in a similar manner as the print material did over 400 years ago. The opportunity for mass production of the written knowledge has transformed the classical methods of teachings. Electronic publishing, with its free flow of knowledge, has already reshaped the structure of our libraries, and it is posed to influence not only the physical structure of the classroom but also the style and methods of teaching. Even the technical publications distributed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) as journals or symposia digests are gradually moving to the electronic format. It is not too far off mark that, in a short time, the technical papers are going to merely be a movie clip of the actual experiments or numerical models of the reported paper. The IEEE Microwave Theory and Techniques (MTT) Society has led this campaign and is poised to provide the information-age benefits to its members. Since one of the primary responsibilities of any professional society is the continuing education of its members, it is natural to expect the MTT Society to initiate educational initiatives. As a result of advances in telecommunication and the popularity of the Internet, electronic multimedia now could augment the traditional teaching methods. Hence, the Education Committee initiated the Microwave Multimedia Module (M4) project, in addition to many other efforts. The Drexel University team of Mohammed-Reza Tofighi, a Ph.D. student, and myself has responded to the M4 project challenge. Our goal is to develop an E-book that covers various topics in passive and active microwave circuits in the hope of assisting MTT Society members in their continuing education efforts. This product is developed as standard “post page” and will be completed in mid-2001. The copyrighted material will then be delivered to IEEE as an electronic book.
Chick oviduct progesterone receptor binding of 15β,17-dihydroxyprogesterone and its analogues

Abstract We have tested derivatives of progesterone obtained by fermentation with Aspergillus giganteus for relative binding affinity for the progesterone receptor of chick oviduct. Our studies show that hydroxyl and oxo substitutents at C-11 and C-15 of progesterone significantly decrease the hormone's affinity for the progesterone receptor. The loss in affinity on introduction of a C-15 hydroxyl in 17-hydroxyprogesterone is restored by acetylation to 15β-acetoxy-17 hydroxyprogesterone. The latter compound may have some potential as an in vivo agent.
Response of stochastic dynamical systems driven by additive Gaussian and Poisson white noise : Solution of a forward generalized Kolmogorov equation by a spectral finite difference method

Abstract A numerical method is given for the solution of the probability density function of the response process of memoryless one- and two-state dynamical systems having polynomial restoring forces and which are subjected to a combination of Gaussian and Poisson white noises. The method employs the Fourier transformed forward generalized Kolmogorov equation to arrive at an initial-boundary value problem for the characteristic function, which is solved using a high-order finite difference procedure. The probability density function is recovered by numerical inverse Fourier transformation. Several examples are given, the results of which are compared with, analytical solutions where available and with simulation otherwise.
Enhancement of anchorage-independent growth in JB6 cells exposed to 60 hertz magnetic fields

Abstract Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are implicated in the genesis of childhood leukemias and lymphomas after residential exposure, and of tumors in adults after occupational exposure. Experiments in vitro have demonstrated biochemical changes with cultured cells including modulation of signal transduction pathways. We examined the ability of 60 Hz sinusoidal EMFs to alter the growth of a promotion-sensitive mouse epidermal cell line (JB6) under anchorage-independent conditions. Cells (10 4 per dish) were suspended in 0,3% agar in 60 mm dishes and exposed to a 1.1 × 10 −3 T field generated by a Helmholtz coil held in an incubator at 37°C, 5% 002 and 90%–97% relative humidity. Growth of colonies more than 60 nm in diameter was scored after 10–14 days. Exposure to the EMF significantly increased the colony-forming efficiency, by 40%–70% compared with control cells ( > 95% confidence level), suggesting interaction with a growth control/signal transduction pathway.
Size-Dependent Predation on Rats (Rattus norvegicus) by House Cats (Felis catus) in an Urban Setting

Although a considerable amount has been published concerning the feeding habits of rural house cats (Felis catus) (Coman and Brunner, 1972; Errington, 1936; Hubbs, 1951; Liberg, 1984; Llewellyn and Uhler, 1953; McMurray and Sperry, 1941; Van Aarde, 1980), there is little documentation regarding predation of Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) by cats. Elton (1953) inferred cat predation on rats by examining the reinvasion by rats, following near extermination by poisoning, of farms with or without cats. Jackson (1951) estimated the impact of urban cats on rat populations of Baltimore, based on the presence of rat remains in feces, and concluded that individual cats remove approximately 28 rats per year. Feral cats are known to feed extensively on black rats (R. rattus) in New Zealand (Fitzgerald and Karl, 1979), and to a lesser extent in Australia (Jones and Coman, 1981). Direct observation of cat predation on rats is rarely reported and evidence of predation is generally obtained by indirect means such as examining stomach contents or by the methods already described. Panaman (1981) reported direct observations of cat predation of small rodents, but rats were not included in the diet. Here I report observed and indirect evidence for size-dependent predation by urban cats on rats.
Isolation of rare recombinants without using selectable markers for one-step seamless BAC mutagenesis

Current methods to isolate rare (1:10,000-1:100,000) bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) recombinants require selectable markers. For seamless BAC mutagenesis, selectable markers need to be removed after isolation of recombinants through counterselection. Here we illustrate founder principle-driven enrichment (FPE), a simple method to rapidly isolate rare recombinants without using selectable markers, allowing one-step seamless BAC mutagenesis. As proof of principle, we isolated 1:100,000 seamless fluorescent protein-modified Nodal BACs and confirmed BAC functionality by generating fluorescent reporter mice. We also isolated small indel P1 phage-derived artificial chromosome (PAC) and BAC recombinants. Statistical analysis revealed that 1:100,000 recombinants can be isolated with <40 PCRs, and we developed a web-based calculator to optimize FPE.
Fatal Hyperammonemia After Renal Transplant due to Late-Onset Urea Cycle Deficiency: A Case Report

We present a case of severe hyperammonemia with subsequent brain herniation in an adult man after renal transplantation. After successful surgery and an initially uneventful postoperative course, the patient developed significant mental status changes associated with seizure activity. His condition rapidly deteriorated, requiring mechanical ventilation and cardiovascular support. Laboratory studies at that time demonstrated an increased serum ammonia level without evidence of liver or kidney dysfunction. Further investigation revealed an increased orotic acid level in the urine, suggesting a urea cycle disorder (UCD). Despite aggressive therapy, the patient's condition continued to deteriorate. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated severe brain edema with no cerebral perfusion; after consultation with the family, care was withdrawn. The combination of hyperammonemia and elevated urine orotic acid with normal liver and kidney function suggested a UCD. It is important to note that patients with a UCD may be free of symptoms for many years. Several factors are able to trigger the disease in adulthood, leading to encephalopathy and death. In this case, the patient's seizures were initially assumed to be a side effect of immunosuppressive therapy. Further diagnostic measures were only performed late in the course of the disease, which delayed the diagnosis of UCD.
Interactions between carbamyl phosphate synthase-I-mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase and palmitoyl-CoA

Carbamyl phosphate synthase-I and glutamate dehydrogenase both form a complex with mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase. Instead of these two enzymes competing for the aminotransferase, carbamyl phosphate synthase-I enhances glutamate dehydrogenase-aminotransferase interaction. This suggests that a complex can be formed between all three enzymes. Since this complex is stable in the presence of substrates and modifiers of the three enzymes, it could conceivably convert NH+4 produced from aspartate into carbamyl phosphate. Furthermore, since carbamyl phosphate synthase-I is the predominant protein in liver mitochondria, it could play a major role in placing the aminotransferase and glutamate dehydrogenase in close proximity. Malate removes glutamate dehydrogenase from the tri-enzyme complex and thus could play a role in determining whether glutamate dehydrogenase interacts with carbamyl phosphate synthase-I or is available to participate in reactions with the Krebs cycle. Palmitoyl-CoA has a high affinity for both carbamyl phosphate synthase-I and glutamate dehydrogenase. ATP and malate which, respectively, decrease and enhance binding of palmitoyl-CoA to glutamate dehydrogenase, respectively decrease and enhance the ability of this enzyme to compete with carbamyl phosphate synthase-I for palmitoyl-CoA. Since carbamyl phosphate synthase-I is present in high levels in liver mitochondria and has a high affinity for palmitoyl-CoA, it could play a major role as a reservoir for palmitoyl-CoA.
Magnetic Field Line Wandering and Shock-Front Acceleration: Application to the Radio Emission of SN 1987A

The superposition of random fluctuations δ on a main, regular magnetic field 0 has been shown by Ragot to produce, on the scales of interest, a nondiffusive random walk of the magnetic field lines in the quasi-linear regime of turbulence. The spreading Δx2 of the field lines across the direction of 0 increases as zβ, z being the distance along 0 with a transport exponent β that is not necessarily equal to 1. This puts into question the diffusivity of magnetic field lines in a non-quasi-linear regime as well and could imply an anomalous transport of the cosmic rays accelerated at a shock front if their decorrelation time from the field lines is longer than their acceleration time. Under the assumption of such a long decorrelation time, the acceleration time of cosmic rays scattered along the wandering field lines is derived here as a function of the obliquity and speed of the shock for a general transport exponent of the field lines. It is shown that for high-speed shocks, the importance of magnetic field line wandering (MFLW) is not limited to quasi-perpendicular shocks as usually believed. Moreover, the turbulence ahead of the shock is in a non-quasi-linear regime on the length scale traveled by accelerated particles whenever MFLW is important. The inclusion of MFLW can make the acceleration time depart by orders of magnitude from its value estimated in the approximation of simple scattering. This discrepancy is actually most welcome to explain the acceleration time of GeV electrons at the reappearance of SN 1987A in the radio waveband, since the inferred diffusion coefficient along the shock normal is about 5 orders of magnitude greater than the limiting Bohm value of a cross-field scattering coefficient. From the requirement of a "realistic" turbulence spectrum and in the approximation of quasi-linear transport coefficients, it is found that the magnetic field lines ahead of the SN 1987A shock strongly supradiffuse (β ≈ 1.8) and that the compression ratio of the shock is larger than 3. Finally, this paper argues in favor of a radio silence of SN 1987A prior to 1990 due to a lack of scattering of the GeV electrons when the shock speed exceeds about one-tenth of the speed of light.
The Effect of Photoperiod and Feed Restriction on Semen Production in the Turkey

In Experiment 1, 72 yearling Broad Breasted White Turkey males were induced to molt under either stimulatory (16L:8D) or nonstimulatory (8L:16D) light used concurrently with a short period of feed and water deprivation, and followed by periods of daily feed restriction (50% of full feed). One-fourth of the males wer killed at intervals of 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks and their testes weighed. In Experiment 2, 40 yearling Broad Breasted White males were killed at 2-week intervals during an 8-week period of 8 hr light per day followed by a 10-week period of 16 hr light per day. Testes were removed, weighed, and fixed in Bouin's solution for histological preparation. In Experiment 1, birds kept under 16 hr light and given different periods of feed and water deprivation, followed by 8 weeks of feed restriction, failed to terminate semen production, although their testes were reduced substantially in size and function. Other groups of males given 8 hr light per day with concurrent regimens of feed deprivation and daily feed restriction, terminated semen production within 4 weeks. When returned to 16 hr light, the testes were twice as heavy as those of males kept in production during the entire test. In Experiment 2, the testes of birds induced to molt under 8 hr light per day regressed by 73% and 89%, respectively, after 4 and 8 weeks of exposure. When given 16 hr light per day, some spermatogenic activity was noted at 4 weeks, and complete spermatogenesis, with maximum semen production, occurred after 6 weeks. There was evidence that a successful rejuvenation of the testes requires a period of complete quiescence.
Dynamics of the Chapman-Ferraro model of the magnetosphere

Abstract A detailed analysis of the homogeneous dynamics of the Chapman-Ferraro model of the surface of the magnetosphere has failed to uncover a mechanism capable of amplifying initially small disturbances to the point where non-linear effects become important. Disturbances are shown to convect rapidly over the surface of the magnetosphere, blown along by the tangential component of the solar wind. As they convect, the magnetic field acts to disperse them and reduce their gradients. The effect of surface curvature is to further reduce the disturbance everywhere except in the polar dimples where some amplification results. However, the disturbances are blown out of the dimples so rapidly that amplification does not exceed 1.25.
Infrared polarimetry studies for multicomponent polymer melts

A rheo-optical technique to measure dynamic infrared dichroism was used with deuterium labeling to study component relaxation in a variety of multi component polymer melts. For each sample overall relaxation was observed simultaneously using birefringence measurements.
Hypothermia induced by delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol in rats with electrolytic lesions of preoptic region.

The preoptic region (POR) is a primary central site for thermoregulation. Bilateral lesions of POR disrupt thermoregulation, and in rats, produce a characteristic syndrome including hyperthermia. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), a potent hypothermic agent, appears to mediate this effect via some central mechanism. The studies reported here suggest that Δ9-THC induces hypothermia at a site other than POR. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups, one with subsequently confirmed bilateral POR lesions and a sham operated group. The lesioned animals developed hyperthermia (+2.1° ± 0.1°C, p<0.01) within 2 hr after surgery when compared to the sham operated controls. Δ9-THC was administered intraperitoneally (5 and 10 mg/kg). Rectal temperature was recorded at 30 min intervals for 2.5 hr. Both lesioned and nonlesioned rats exhibited hypothermia within 30 min of Δ9-THC administration. The hypothermic response to 5 and 10 mg/kg Δ9-THC in the lesioned animals was significantly greater (p<0.05) and showed a trend toward longer duration than the hypothermia induced in the sham operated controls. These data demonstrate that Δ9-THC is able to induce a hypothermic response in rats whose body temperatures were elevated by POR ablation. Although Δ9-THC does not appear to act primarily at POR to induce hypothermia, it is evident that an intact POR plays a role in modifying the duration and magnitude of Δ9-THC induced hypothermia.
SU-E-E-06: The Role of MR Physics in Noninvasive Estimation of Cerebral Ferritn Levels and Microglia Activity in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients

Purpose: To educate the treating clinician about the role of MR Physics in noninvasive estimation of cerebral ferritn levels and microglia activity and the recent updates in intracerebral hemorrhage ICH) patients research.Methods and Results: Organization of methods, results and recent updates.1)In‐situ monitoring of the cerebral ferritin levels and microglia activity of ICH patients using MRI. 2)Correlate and establish the literature till date and explore the relationship between the serum ferritin levels and perihematomal ferritin levels at each stage of ICH stroke Conclusion: Noninvasive monitoring of both ferritin levels and the microglia activity using MRI may help the clinician in selecting a proper iron chelating drug and its dosage to control the secondary injury, thus affecting the mortality and disability in ICH population.
Naturally Occurring Asbestos: Potential for Human Exposure, Southern Nevada, USA

Amphibole asbestos minerals are known human carcinogens, and many regulations have been developed to limit occupational exposure. These minerals can also occur in the natural environment, where they may be more difficult to control. We applied a diverse set of analytical methods including scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy, electron probe analysis, x-ray diffraction, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy to rock, soil, and dust samples and to particles attached to clothing samples and cars. We found naturally occurring fibrous actinolite, a regulated amphibole asbestos mineral, in rock, soil, and dust that can be transported by wind, water, cars, or on clothing after outdoor recreational activities. Sources of these fibrous amphiboles are several plutons in southern Nevada and Arizona and alluvial fans emanating from asbestos-containing bedrock. The morphology of the amphibole fibers is similar to amphibole fibers found in the USEPA Superfund site at Libby, MT. We found that the morphometry of the fibrous particles in the study area did not substantially change when the original bedrock weathered into soil, and particles were eroded and transported through wind and/or water and finally settled and accumulated on natural or other surfaces. Because large populations in Boulder City, Henderson, and Las Vegas are located only a few kilometers, sometimes even only a few tens of meters, downwind from the sources, and because most of the particles are transported in suspension after they are emitted, potentially large populations in Boulder City, Henderson, and perhaps Las Vegas could be exposed. This study demonstrates a potential public health risk to several large population areas.
In vivo two-photon microscopy reveals immediate microglial reaction to implantation of microelectrode through extension of processes

Objective. Penetrating cortical neural probe technologies allow investigators to record electrical signals in the brain. Implantation of probes results in acute tissue damage, and microglia density increases around implanted devices over weeks. However, the mechanisms underlying this encapsulation are not well understood in the acute temporal domain. The objective here was to evaluate dynamic microglial response to implanted probes using two-photon microscopy. Approach. Using two-photon in vivo microscopy, cortical microglia ?200??m below the surface of the visual cortex were imaged every minute in mice with green fluorescent protein-expressing microglia. Main results. Following probe insertion, nearby microglia immediately extended processes toward the probe at (1.6 ? 1.3) ?m min?1?during the first 30?45?min, but showed negligible cell body movement for the first 6?h. Six hours following probe insertion, microglia at distances <130.0??m (p = 0.5) from the probe surface exhibit morphological characteristics of transitional stage (T-stage) activation, similar to the microglial response observed with laser-induced blood?brain barrier damage. T-stage morphology and microglia directionality indexes were developed to characterize microglial response to implanted probes. Evidence suggesting vascular reorganization after probe insertion and distant vessel damage was also observed hours after probe insertion. Significance. A precise temporal understanding of the cellular response to microelectrode implantation will facilitate the search for molecular cues initiating and attenuating the reactive tissue response.
Revivals and Revolution: Historiographic Turns since Alan Heimert's Religion and the American Mind

Thirty years ago Alan Heimert published his monumental study of religion's relationship to the American Revolution. Religion and the American Mind: From the Great Awakening to the Revolution contradicted the conventional wisdom rooted in Vernon Parrington's 1927 Main Currents of American Thought and implicitly challenged the more recent interpretation put forward by Heimert's own mentor, Perry Miller. Critics responded vigorously, but their reproofs did not foretell the future of Heimert's argument. Indeed, in the past twenty years a cadreof young scholars assumed either his thesis or method and moved the debate toward the personalities and movements Heimert underscored. Some of today's leading scholars who study connections between the revivals and the Revolution pay homage to Heimert's thought in footnotes if not in the texts themselves. Two social/intellectual movements seemingly at cross-purposes, namely Protestant evangelicalism and the new cultural history, rescued Heimert's work from scathing yet well-placed criticisms to establish its assertions as a leading model for understanding religion's role in the American Revolution.
Stability of College Students' Attitudes toward Women during One School Year

A questionnaire concerning attitudes toward the role of women in society was administered once in the fall semester and again in the spring semester to 113 university students. Separate analyses by class (freshman through senior) and sex showed that the fall and spring scores did not differ significantly and were highly correlated. The stability of scores during the school year suggests that a previously reported shift to a more liberal viewpoint with increasing years of college experience may be due more to selective dropout of traditionally oriented students than to changes in attitudes within individuals.
The learning of modern culture

Abstract In October, 1976, a survey was conducted among 1,621 sixth grade pupils located in 30 rural and 30 urban randomly selected East Javanese elementary schools. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of pupil background characteristics, the home learning environment, school and classroom organizational characteristics, the physical environment of the classroom and the school, teacher characteristics, the classroom learning environment and rural-urban factors upon the acquisition of modern orientations among Indonesian elementary schoolchildren. The study was also designed to develop reliable and valid measures of the key variables used in the conceptual model. The results indicated that reliable and valid instruments could be generated from survey data; specifically, satisfactory scales were developed for the measurement of the following concepts: the home learning environment, the school physical environment, the classroom physical environment, teacher pedagogy, teacher quality, individual modernity, and fifteen characteristics of the classroom learning environment. Correlational and multiple regression analyses showed that individual modernity, the learning outcome, was influenced by both social and educational learning determinants. The most powerful predictors of modernity in the positive direction were class size, the home learning environment, the personal development and relationship dimensions of the classroom learning environment, and the school physical environment. Pupil age and teacher pedagogy (innovativeness) were negatively associated with the criterion. The results also show that modernizing forces are disproportionately concentrated in the urban area. In the multiple regression, the learning determinants accounted for a large enough portion of the variance in the learning outcome (R 2 = .262) to be statistically significant from zero at the .001 level. The study shows that the learning of modern culture is a complex phenomenon which is influenced by a wide variety of factors.