cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polymorphisms in FcγRIIIA Are Genetically Linked to FcγRIIA and May Account for the Primary Predictive Role Ascribed to Polymorphisms in FcγRIIIA-158 in Determining Rituximab Responses.

γWe and others have previously described polymorphisms in codon 158 and 48 for FcγRIIIα as predictors of clinical responses to the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab in patients with low-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, including Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia. The expression of at least one valine (V) at FcγRIIIα-158 and Leucine/Histidine (L/H) at FcγRIIIα-48 is associated with higher response rates to rituximab, though primacy for FcγRIIIα-158 over 48 polymorphisms for determining rituximab response is attributed to genetic linkage. As part of these studies, we sought to determine if polymorphisms in FCγRIIA were linked to FCγRIIIA since higher response rates have been observed in patients who express Histidine/Histidine (H/H) in FcγRIIA-131. We therefore performed sequence analysis of the whole FcγRIIa gene and exons 3 and 4 of the FcγRIIIa gene in 52 healthy donors. The genetic association between polymorphisms was calculated using the statistical program GOLD and expressed as linkage disequilibrium (D’). Single nucleotide polymorphisms were commonly found in FcγRIIIa at codons 158, 48 and in FcγRIIa at codons 131, 27. The genotype frequencies for polymorphisms are as follows: FcγRIIIa-158: 25% F/F; 63% F/V; 12% V/V; FcγRIIIa-48: 67% L/L; 10% L/R; 17% L/H; FcγRIIa-131: 29% H/H; 46% H/R; 25% R/R; FcγRIIa-27: 71% Q/Q; 27% Q/W; 2% W/W. Strong linkage was found between the FcγRIIIa-158 and −48 (D’=1, p=0.001), as well as between FcγRIIa-131 and -27 (D’=1, p=0.00082). Specifically, the expression of F at FcγRIIIa-158 was found to be associated with expression of L at FcγRIIIa-48, whereas the expression of H at FcγRIIa-131 was associated with the expression of Q at FcγRIIa-27. Importantly, we observed links among polymorphisms at FcγRIIa and FcγRIIIa. Specifically, FcγRIIIa-48 was linked to FcγRIIa-27 (D’=0.765, p
Steel railway bridge fatigue damage detection using numerical models and machine learning: Mitigating influence of modeling uncertainty

Abstract Stringer-to-floor beam connections were reported as one of the most fatigue-prone details in riveted steel railway bridges. To detect stiffness degradation that results from the initiation and growth of fatigue cracks, an automated damage detection framework was proposed by the authors (Eftekhar Azam et al., 2019; Rageh et al., 2018). The proposed method relies on Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) to identify damage location and intensity under non-stationary, unknown train loads. Bridge computational models were used to simulate damage scenarios and for training the ANNs. Damage detection method efficiency and accuracy were shown to be significantly influenced by the level of modeling uncertainties (MUs). To investigate the applicability of the proposed framework to in-service bridges, a systematic analysis of the effect of MUs on the proposed POD-ANN framework was necessary. MU influence on the performance of the POD-ANN damage detection method was investigated and a new procedure for generating training data for ANNs was proposed. The procedure was based on synergizing Proper Orthogonal Modes (POMs) extracted from measured structural response and POMs calculated from the numerical model. The current study integrated numerical and field investigations. The main objective of the numerical investigation was to identify a robust damage feature independent of the level and location of assumed MUs. Results showed that Damage Location (DL) and Damage Intensity (DI) were detected with high accuracy for studied uncertainty cases; however, as expected, damage detection accuracy reduced as MU increased. A hybrid experimental-numerical approach was then implemented for the field investigation studies. This approach applied identified damage features from the numerical investigation to measurements from an in-service railway bridge to produce damage scenarios used to train the framework. MATLAB algorithms were developed that preprocessed field data and eliminated POM variations resulted from loading uncertainties. ANNs were trained and tested using the field strain estimated POMs from the hybrid approach and DL and DI results were obtained for the studied railway bridge under non-stationary, unknown train loads. These results show the promise of the POD-ANN method as a robust, real-time fatigue damage identification tool for steel railway bridges.
Cell-free Translation: Preparation and Validation of Translation-competent Extracts from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Cell-free translation is a powerful technique for in vitro protein synthesis. While cell-free translation platforms prepared from bacterial, plant, and mammalian cells are commercially available, yeast-based translation systems remain proprietary knowledge of individual labs. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for simple, fast, and cost-effective preparation of the translation-competent cell-free extract (CFE) from budding yeast. Our protocol streamlines steps combined from different procedures published over the last three decades and incorporates cryogenic lysis of yeast cells to produce a high yield of the translationally active material. We also describe techniques for the validation and troubleshooting of the quality and translational activity of the obtained yeast CFE. Graphic abstract: The flow of Cell-Free Extract (CFE) preparation procedure.
Uracil‐DNA glycosylases—Structural and functional perspectives on an essential family of DNA repair enzymes

Uracil-DNA glycosylases (UDGs) are evolutionarily conserved DNA repair enzymes that initiate the base excision repair pathway and remove uracil from DNA. The UDG superfamily is classified into six families based on their substrate specificity. This review focuses on the family I enzymes since these are the most extensively studied members of the superfamily. The structural basis for substrate specificity and base recognition as well as for DNA binding, nucleotide flipping and catalytic mechanism is discussed in detail. Other topics include the mechanism of lesion search and molecular mimicry through interaction with uracil-DNA glycosylase inhibitors. The latest studies and findings detailing structure and function in the UDG superfamily are presented.
How to Write a Ph. D. Proposal [Article in Serbian]

A dissertation is a document that presents the authorâ€™s research and findings that are submitted as a major requirement in support of the candidate for a Ph.D. degree. The Ph.D. proposal should set up the area of the research project, the central research question, the methods to be employed, and present major publications that are the basis for this research. This paper presents instructions on writing a Ph.D. proposal.
EFFECT OF PHOSPHATE ION AND 2,4-DINITROPHENOL ON THE ACTIVITY OF INTACT CELLS OF THIOBACILLUS FERROOXIDANS

Beck, Jay V. (Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah), and Fred M. Shafia. Effect of phosphate ion and 2,4-dinitrophenol on the activity of cell suspensions of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans. J. Bacteriol. 88:850–857. 1964.—The rate of oxidation of ferrous salts or elemental sulfur by aged cell suspensions, phosphate-depleted cells, or 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP)-treated cells of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans was increased by addition of orthophosphate salts. The effect was found to be transitory, with the rate gradually approaching that observed prior to phosphate ion addition. The total increased oxygen uptake was observed to be roughly proportional to the amount of phosphate salt added. The efficiency of CO2 fixation accompanying oxidation of ferrous salts was found to be about 1.7 μmoles of CO2 fixed per 100 μmoles of O2 absorbed, in contrast to a value of about 8.0 μmoles of CO2 fixed per 100 μmoles of O2 uptake during sulfur oxidation. The rate of oxidation did not affect the CO2 fixation efficiency. Whereas addition of phosphate salts to aged or phosphate-depleted cells increased slightly the already high efficiency of CO2 fixation, it did not affect the complete inhibition of CO2 fixation observed in the presence of 10-5m DNP. The results indicate that the phosphate ion is essential for oxidation of the ferrous ion, and that dinitrophenol and other so-called upcoupling agents interfere with phosphate metabolism. The latter may be a result of action at the site of assimilation of the ferrous ion or it may be an effect on the electron-transport system. In any event, it seems obvious that the phosphate ion is converted into a nonactive form in the presence of dinitrophenol-treated cells, because additional quantities of orthophosphate salts cause an immediate, marked restoration of oxidative activity.
Studies on the effect of streptomycin on mammalian cells in culture. I. Isolation of resistant strains.

Abstract Cells resistant to the action of relatively large quantities of streptomycin have been isolated from a streptomycin sensitive strain of mammalian cells. Sensitive and resistant clone cultures were also separated from the parent strain by cloning techniques in the absence of streptomycin. Streptomycin resistance and sensitivity is maintained after repeated subculturing in the absence of streptomycin. Some of the factors affecting the resistance of cells to streptomycin have been studied and it was found that the nutritional and physical environment of the growing culture affected the behavior of the cells in streptomycin. Streptomycin sensitive cells appear to release more 260 mμ absorbing material than streptomycin resistant cells.
A new ESD model: The Charged Strip Model

Microelectronics packaging and testing are increasingly being conducted on devices in strip form. Once charged, strips may discharge through a pin on one IC. The resulting damage is simulated by a new ESD test method: the Charged Strip Model (CSM). CSM withstand voltages are inversely proportional to strip capacitances. Thus, IC's that are immune to Charged Device Model (CDM) damage may be susceptible to CSM damage. Since CSM discharge events may have far more energy than other real-world ESD events, CSM damage can be easily mistaken for EOS damage. CSM damage can be minimized via appropriate strip designs and actions to minimize strip charging during manufacturing.
Protein Turnover in Escherichia coli as Measured with an Equilibration Apparatus

Levine, Elliot M. (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.). Protein turnover in Escherichia coli as measured with an equilibration apparatus. J. Bacteriol. 90:1578–1588. 1965.—Intercellular protein turnover (the reutilization by one cell of amino acids derived from the protein of another cell) occurs at a rate of 0.16 to 0.18% per hour in nongrowing cultures of Escherichia coli, as determined in an apparatus that rapidly equilibrates the culture fluids of two separated bacterial suspensions.
Environmental effects on the cognitions of corporate and independent entrepreneurs

Economic theories of entrepreneurship propose elements that enhance or hinder entrepreneurial action on a macroeconomic level, while individual-level approaches seek to explain why some individuals are more likely than others to engage in entrepreneurship. However, recent theorizing by scholars has introduced a more integrated approach to entrepreneurial behavior that relates both external and internal factors to entrepreneurial action by considering how uncertainty and motivation affect entrepreneurial attention and evaluation. In this paper, we consider how environmental uncertainty and complexity differentially affect the motivations of independent entrepreneurs and corporate entrepreneurs to engage in entrepreneurial action. While examining how uncertainty and complexity affect macro-level entrepreneurship, we also explore how individual differences between corporate entrepreneurs and independent entrepreneurs affect entrepreneurial decision-making. By examining the role schemas of entrepreneurs, we construct a theoretical framework to explain why corporate entrepreneurs may behave differently than independent entrepreneurs under the same set of environmental conditions. Important implications are outlined for researchers, entrepreneurs, and policy makers.
Underground storage of hazardous waste

Abstract The use of underground space for the storage of hazardous waste is a little used option and is a viable candidate to supplement existing and developing technologies. The use of underground storage for hazardous waste has been successfully demonstrated for 13 years at the Herfa-Neurode Mine Facility in West Germany [1]. There is an ongoing effort to clean up dioxin contaminated soil in Missouri, one of the proposed solutions is the use of mined space for the long-term storage of this contaminated soil. The magnitude of the problem, criteria for siting a mine facility and a brief description of a proposed facility are outlined [2]. The proposed use of solution mined space in salt offers the potential for large volume bulk storage of hazardous waste. Several design and operational concepts are illustrated and discussed. Worldwide activities utilizing underground storage for hazardous waste containment, as described in the literature, are summarized and referenced.
Randomised clinical trial: the benefit of combination therapy with adefovir and lamivudine for chronic hepatitis B.

Summary Background Combination antiviral therapy holds the promise of increasing response rates while decreasing antiviral resistance, but has yet to be shown to be beneficial or necessary in chronic hepatitis B. Aim To evaluate the benefit of combination therapy with adefovir and lamivudine versus adefovir alone in maintaining virological, biochemical and histological responses. Methods Patients with chronic hepatitis B with and without previous lamivudine therapy were randomised to receive adefovir alone (10 mg/daily) or adefovir and lamivudine (100 mg/daily) for up to 192 weeks. Study endpoints were (i) maintained virological (HBV DNA <500 copies/mL), biochemical and histological response, (ii) loss of HBeAg and (iii) loss of HBsAg. Results A total of 41 patients were enrolled, including 31 HBeAg -positive and 31 treatment-naive subjects. 30 patients remained on assigned therapy at 192 weeks. The percentage of patients achieving a combined maintained response was higher in the combination than the monotherapy arm, both at week 48 (59% vs. 26%, P = 0.06) and 192 (68% vs. 31%, P = 0.03). At week 192, 76% of the combination vs. 36% of the monotherapy group had loss of HBeAg (P = 0.03). One patient receiving adefovir cleared HBsAg. Adefovir resistance developed in 6 of 19 (32%) monotherapy but none of 22 combination treated patients (P = 0.03). Conclusions Extended combination therapy with lamivudine and adefovir is associated with a high rate of long-term virological and biochemical response. Adefovir monotherapy appears to be less effective mainly because of poor initial response and the ultimate development of antiviral resistance (www.Clinical. Trials.gov NCT00023309).
An eye localization, tracking and blink pattern recognition system: Algorithm and evaluation

This study is to investigate the fundamental problems of, (1) facial feature detection and localization, especially eye features; and (2) eye dynamics, including tracking and blink detection. We first describe our contribution to eye localization. Following that, we discuss a simultaneous eye tracking and blink detection system. Facial feature detection is solved in a general object detection framework and its performance for eye localization is presented. A binary tree representation based on feature dependency partitions the object feature space in a coarse to fine manner. In each compact feature subspace, independent component analysis (ICA) is used to get the independent sources, whose probability density functions (PDFs) are modeled by Gaussian mixtures. When applying this representation for the task of eye detection, a subwindow is used to scan the entire image and each obtained image patch is examined using Bayesian criteria to determine the presence of an eye subject. After the eyes are automatically located with binary tree-based probability learning, interactive particle filters are used for simultaneously tracking the eyes and detecting the blinks. The particle filters use classification-based observation models, in which the posterior probabilities are evaluated by logistic regressions in tensor subspaces. Extensive experiments are used to evaluate the performance from two aspects, (1) blink detection rate and the accuracy of blink duration in terms of the frame numbers; (2) eye tracking accuracy. We also present an experimental setup for obtaining the benchmark data in tracking accuracy evaluation. The experimental evaluation demonstrates the capability of this approach.
Consideration of Six Cases in Zoological Nomenclature

THE Secretary of the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature has the honour to invite attention of the zoological profession to the fact that application for ‘suspension of the rules’ has been made in the six following cases:
AN EVALUATION OF SOME MODELS FOR CULTURE-FAIR SELECTION

in this process. There are many different definitions of what constitutes culture-fair selection, and each implicitly, though unfortunately not explicitly, involves a particular set of value judgments with different implications for how selection should be accomplished. For each of these definitions a remedy has been proposed. Our purpose in this paper is to show that some of these approaches are inadequate to their task and that more complex analyses are required. DESCRIPTION OF THE SELECTION PROCESS The selection process can be characterized in the same manner for all selection models. First, there are individuals about whom decisions are required. These decisions are to be based on information about the individuals. The information is processed by some strategy which leads to a final decision. The final decision ends the decision-making process by assigning the individual to either a selected or an outselected group. The outcome is the individual's performance after the assignment or, in other words, the consequences resulting from the decision (Cronbach & Gleser, 1965, p. 18). A strategy is a rule for making decisions. Each selection model represents a strategy, the intent of which is to guarantee cultural fairness in the selection process. Information is generally provided by a test, and we shall use the term test to refer to all information-gathering procedures including interviews and physical measurements. The overriding problem is the lack of agreement as to the meaning of the term culture-fair selection. Each of the selection models or strategies we discuss can be characterized in the same manner. It is assumed that the applicants to an educational institution, to a training program, or for employment can be separated into subpopulations because of an a priori belief that the assumed linear regressions within these subpopulations are different-that is, the test (or predictor) may be more valid for some subpopulations than for others (different slopes), and/or for a fixed value of the predictor, the level of criterion performances may differ (different intercepts), or that some differential selection criterion is appropriate for various subpopulations. Alternatively, these subpopulations may be differentiable primarily because of public concern with what is going on in them and a public need to verify that all subpopula
Efficient distributed OPF for decentralized power system operations and electricity markets

This paper explores the feasibility of fully-distributed architectures for the electric power industry. In such architectures, the various electric power ecosystems interact with each other to achieve their own operational and economic objectives without the need for real-time centralized coordination or optimization. This paper uses an efficient distributed optimal power flow algorithm which is applicable to generic power ecosystem optimization, and it describes the ecosystem interaction protocols for operation and trading. The proposed algorithm is illustrated in detail for a small case, and performance results are provided for a large, realistic-size case. The results provided demonstrate the feasibility of such a distributed architecture that can ultimately scale from interconnections to homes. 1
Accurate data redistribution cost estimation in software distributed shared memory systems

Distributing data is one of the key problems in implementing efficient distributed-memory parallel programs. The problem becomes more difficult in programs where data redistribution between computational phases is considered. The global data distribution problem is to find the optimal distribution in multi-phase parallel programs. Solving this problem requires accurate knowledge of data redistribution cost.We are investigating this problem in the context of a software distributed shared memory (SDSM) system, in which obtaining accurate redistribution cost estimates is difficult. This is because SDSM communication is implicit: It depends on access patterns, page locations, and the SDSM consistency protocol.We have developed integrated compile- and run-time analysis for SDSM systems to determine accurate redistribution cost estimates with low overhead. Our resulting system, SUIF-Adapt, can efficiently and accurately estimate execution time, including redistribution, to within 5% of the actual time in all of our test cases and is often much closer. These precise costs enable SUIF-Adapt to find efficient global data distributions in multiple-phase programs.
Air passenger demand and skilled labor markets by US metropolitan area

This paper examines the relationships that exist between skilled labor markets and air transportation by US metropolitan area. The goal is to enhance the current literature by conducting a more specific investigation of the links that exist between air passenger demand and employment levels within metropolitan economies focusing especially on employment patterns and the number of establishments for both the professional, scientific, and technical (PST) services sector and the high-technology sector. The results suggest that employment opportunities and the number of establishments in both sectors are systematically linked to the geography of air passenger demand.
Endovascular treatment for varices and variceal hemorrhage associated with portal hypertension: A pictorial review

Learning Objectives The objective of this exhibit is to review the pathophysiology, clinical manifestation, indication and potential endovascular interventions available for varices and variceal hemorrhage secondary to portal hypertension (PHT). Background In PHT, chronically elevated portal pressures may result in engorgement of collateral venous pathways. Prolonged and excessively elevated portal pressures may predispose to the development of varices and variceal hemorrhage. The role of the interventional radiologist and the armamentarium of endovascular minimally invasive treatment options available to them for the management of PHT and its complications have significantly evolved over the last several decades. Clinical Findings/Procedure Details Endovascular interventions for reducing portal pressures and managing acutely bleeding varies will be discussed. The currently available endovascular treatment options, with case based examples, for the following will be shown: 1. Esophageal varices 2. Gastric varices 3. Duodenal varices 4. Paraumbilical varices 5. Peristomal varices 6. Rectal varices Treatment options including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), balloon occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO), partial splenic embolization, and direct variceal puncture with embolization and the various embolic agents available will be emphasized. Conclusion and/or Teaching Points Endovascular techniques provide relatively safe minimally invasive treatment options for patients with portal hypertension related varices.
Phospholipid compositions of rat, rabbit and bovine dental pulp.

Abstract The phospholipids of dental pulps were analyzed by 2-dimensional thin-layer chromatography. The phospholipid composition was determined in dental pulp from calf dental papillae, unerupted molars, molars and incisors; from adult bovine molars; from rabbit incisors and molars; and from rat incisors. The phospholipid compositions were the same in all dental pulps from any one particular species, regardless of the rate of dentine formation or stage of development. The overall profile of dental pulp phospholipids was similar in all species examined, but the amount of phospholipid extracted per gram wet tissue varied among the species. All 3 species contained plasmalogens only in ethanolamine phosphoglyceride fraction, and plasmalogens comprised 13–15 per cent of the total phospholipids in bovine and rabbit dental pulp.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Thiol-Tethered Tripyridyl Porphyrin on Au(111)

Porphyrins are actively studied for use in molecular and organic electronic components of devices because of their diverse tunable optical and electronic properties. In this study, mixed self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of dodecanethiol and a tripyridyl porphyrin attached to a thiol tether via a perfluorinated phenyl ring (TPy3PF4−SC5SH) were prepared on Au(111) substrates. The synthetic strategy allows for rapid formation of derivatives with different tethers. The surface structural and electronic properties of mixed monolayer SAMs of the porphyrin inserted into the dodecanethiol matrix were investigated using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared reflection−absorption spectroscopy (FT-IRAS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were also employed to evaluate the analytical vibrational frequencies of the TPy3PF4−SC5SH molecule as well as its electronic structure. For the mixed monolayers, the morp...
1;19 translocation in human meningioma.

Background. Loss of chromosome 22 represents the most common chromosome abnormality (70%) in meningiomas. The remainder (30%) have a normal karyotype. Not only are the structural changes rare, they also occur simultaneously with various chromosome losses. Methods. The authors identified and studied the meningiomas of two patients with standard tumor cell culture technique and chromosome preparation. Results. Twenty karyotypes from each meningioma had a 46 modal chromosome number with t(1;19) (q21;p13) in all cells. Conclusions. The sole change of the (1;19) translocation in meningioma, without any other changes such as chromosome loss, as shown in this study, is unique and has never been reported before in the literature, to the knowledge of the authors. Additional study is needed to learn more about the rate of occurrence and the significant impact on meningeal tumor genesis.
Angular distribution of Rh atoms desorbed from ion-bombarded Rh{100}: Effect of local environment

Energy-resolved angular distributions of Rh atoms desorbed by 5 keV Ar-ion bombardment of the Rh{l brace}100{r brace} surface are measured with use of a multiphoton resonance ionization technique. The results are shown to be in good agreement with molecular-dynamics simulations of the ion-impact event using the same interaction potential optimized previously to describe desorption from Rh{l brace}111{r brace}. In addition, by analyzing contour plots of the surface potential energy, the trend in the experimental results for Rh{l brace}100{r brace} and those previously published for Rh{l brace}111{r brace} are well explained. Based on this analysis, it is concluded that the peak in the polar-angle distribution of neutral particles desorbed from ion-bombarded single crystals is mainly determined by the relative positions of surface atoms which influence the trajectory of an exiting particle via channeling and blocking. Moreover, the anisotropy of the momentum imparted to the surface atoms in the last collision leads to an enhancement of ejection along certain crystallographic directions.
Factors affecting the tensile strength of hot-gas filter dust cakes

The University of North Dakota Energy and Environmental Research Center is determining some of the fuel-, sorbent- and operations-related conditions that lead to blinding or bridging of hot-gas particle filters in pressurized fluidized bed combustion systems. Several mechanisms contribute to the stickiness of dust particles within a filter cake: electrostatic and van der Waals attractions, and mechanical, liquid and solid bridging. The magnitudes of these mechanism impacts depend on the size and composition distributions of the dust particles, cake porosity, gas composition and system temperature. High-temperature tensile strength measurements of filter dust cakes have shown that only a small amount of liquid is necessary to double the tensile strength of a cake. The amount of strength increase is related more to the wettability of the dust than to the liquid's viscosity or air-liquid surface tension. Also, if the tensile strength of a filter cake is less than approximately 50 N/m2, the cake re-entrains after being pulsed off and can lead to blinding of the filters. If the cake strength is over approximately 300 N/m2, it can bridge between filters, in some cases forcing them apart and causing them to break. However, the factors affecting cake strength are not independent variables and laboratory measurements have shown that the tensile strength of filter dust does not adequately explain its propensity to bridge across filters in a hot-gas filter system. A better measurement is the tensile strength divided by the density of the cake, or its specific strength. The authors have defined the cake specific strength as its critical thickness index (CTI) because it indicates the maximum thickness for which a cake would build before failing or shedding under its own weight. Laboratory measurements show that the CTI is a better indicator of the observed propensity of a particular dust to form bridges between filters than its simple tensile strength.
Suppression of intestinal and hepatic cytochrome P4503A in murine Toxoplasma infection. Effects of N-acetylcysteine and NG-monomethyl-L-arginine on the hepatic suppression

1. Cytochrome P4503A (CYP3A) expression was studied in a murine model of infection. Mice were infected with a cystogenic strain of Toxoplasma gondii and microsomes were prepared for liver homogenates and jejunum villus tip enterocytes on day 10 postinfection. Total cytochrome P450 (CYP) and CYP3A were quantitated, and CYP3A activity was determined. 2. In the infected mouse, total CYP and CYP3A contents fell in the liver (-39 and - 49% respectively) and intestine (-43 and - 48 % respectively), as did the rate of metabolism of erythromycin (Ery) and cyclosporine A (CyA), two markers of CYP3A activity (-36 and -26% in the liver, -35 and -58% in the intestine). 3. To determine the mechanism(s) involved in the depression of hepatic CYP3A, infected mice were treated on day 7.5 post-infection with a monoclonal antibody raised against interferon-gamma (anti-IFN-gamma, or from days 7.5 to 10 post-infection with either N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (NMMA), an inhibitor of reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI) production, or N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) scavenger. 4. Total CYP content was restored in the liver of infected mice treated with anti-IFN-gamma, but with marked interindividual variability. NAC treatment led to a recovery in the liver of total CYP content (+35 %), CYP3A content (total recovery), and the rates of Ery (+59%) and CyA (+87%) metabolism, whereas inconsistent results were obtained with NMMA. These results suggest that NAC, but probably not NMMA, partially protects hepatic CYP3A from Toxoplasma-mediated suppression in mouse.
Comparing accuracies of two screening tests in a two-phase study for dementia

Summary. A two-phase design has been widely used in epidemiological studies of dementia. The first phase assesses a large sample with screening tests. The second, based on the screening test results and possibly on other observed patient's factors, selects a subset of the study sample for a more definitive disease verification assessment. In comparing the accuracies of two screening tests in a two-phase study of dementia, inferences are commonly made from a sample of verified cases. The omission of non-verified cases can seriously bias comparison results. To correct for this bias, we derive the maximum likelihood (ML) estimators for the accuracies of two screening tests and their corresponding correlation. The p-values and confidence intervals are computed using the asymptotic normality of the ML estimators. Our method is used to compare the accuracies of two screening tests in a two-phase epidemiological study of dementia. We found that, although the sensitivities of the new and standard screening tests in detecting a diseased subject are not different, the new screening test performs better in detecting a non-diseased subject.
Correspondence of A.F. Losev and George L. Kline (1957-74)

I know about you only from your valuable books and from the little that was communicated to me by telephone in Moscow in September. Nevertheless, we share a warm interest in Greek culture generally and philosophy in particular.
Absolute Kinetics of Aminium Radical Reactions with Olefins in Acetonitrile Solution1

Photolysis of N-nitrosamines in acidic acetonitrile produces aminium radical cations via protonation of the initially-formed aminyl radicals. The kinetics of these species can be monitored by transient UV spectroscopy via their absorption band which is found at ca. 300 nm in the case of the piperidinium radical, for example. By measuring the aminium radicals' lifetimes as a function of the concentration of added olefin, absolute values for the bimolecular rate constants for the addition reactions were obtained. In the case of the piperidinium radical, these rate constants varied from <1 × 106 M-1 s-1 for acrylonitrile to 1.1 ± 0.1 × 109 M-1 s-1 for 1,1-diphenylethylene and generally increased with decreasing ionization potential of the olefin, thus confirming the electrophilic nature of the piperidinium radical. The rate constants for analogous reactions of diethylaminium radicals were 1.5−25 times smaller indicating the importance of steric factors in aminium radical additions to olefins. The rate consta...
Construct validity of life chart functioning scales for use in naturalistic studies of bipolar disorder.

Abstract This study examined the construct validity of the functional impairment scales of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) prospective life-charting methodology (LCM-pTM). Twelve male and 28 female bipolar participants were recruited from the community through advertisements. Diagnoses of bipolar I or II were confirmed using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I). Patients completed life charts for three consecutive months. At the end of each month, a trained clinician administered the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the Young Mania Rating Scale YMRS by telephone, followed by ratings using the Global Asessment of Functioning (GAF), and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) for bipolar disorder. Data was analyzed separately for each month (time 1, time 2, and time 3). Complete data was available for 35 participants at time 1, 36 at time 2 and 32 at time 3. Spearman correlations demonstrated significant convergent validity at times 2 and 3 for life chart measures of mania (HIGH) and CGI-mania, and at all three times for life chart depression (LOW) and CGI-depression, with corresponding discriminant validities. The GAF was positively correlated with HIGH and negatively correlated with LOW at time 2 and 3 only. HAM-D and LOW also showed convergent and discriminant validity for all three times. For HIGH and YMRS, however, there was a strong significant correlation at time 3 only. While the use of heterogeneous methods maximizes differences between measures, it also appears that bipolar patients are less consistent in reporting functional impairment due to mania than due to depression. The construct of life chart dysfunction due to mania does not consistently measure the same construct as similar clinician ratings of mania. Life chart dysfunction due to depression shows higher construct validity.
Dynamics of the phase inversion process

An analysis of the dynamics of phase inversion based on mathematical modeling and in situ experimental observations is presented. Calculations based on ternary diffusion models illustrate the effects of casting film composition, evaporation time, and film thickness on the precipitation time and resulting polymer film profiles, which correlate with observed final morphologies. An experimental method based on the use of dark ground optics, interface visualization, and reflected light illumination is used for in situ monitoring of the mass transfer and phase separation dynamics during the quench step
A real model of the world business cycle

Abstract In this paper a stochastic, two country, log-linear, infinite horizon model is used to analyze the generation and transmission of economic fluctuations across countries. It is argued that following a country specific supply disturbance, production interdependence and unitary elasticities in consumption and production are sufficient to generate comovements in aggregate economic activity, investment, and trade that are persistent over time and positively correlated across countries. However, the empirical analysis carried out for the USA, Japan, Germany, and UK for the 1960–82 period suggests that common shocks rather than trade links are responsible for this pattern of comovements.
The Name and Ancestry of Han Kao-Tsu

Han chi, j 'J " , by Hsiin Yiieh f *9 (lived A.D. 148-209), which says after mentioning Kao-tsu, "Taboo Pang. Chi ; was the 'style' of [Liu] Pang. [Pang] means 'the state"'. Now "the State" is entirely too appropriate a given name for an Emperor who was born on a farm and only raised himself to the emperorship by his own efforts. Furthermore the Shih chi a p (by Ssui-ma Ch'ien J,J M , lived ca. 145-86 B.C.) merely says, "His 'style' was Chi" (cf. E. Chavannes, Memoires Historiques, II, 325), and does not mention any given name. The Han Shu 'J (mostly by Pan Ku Jf [,, lived 32-92 A.D.) says merely that his surname was Liu, and does not cite his name. This history however makes various persons address him by name. Before he acquired a title, these persons always call him Liu Chi. Thus, not only is the name Pang suspicious from its meaning, but the oldest sources carefully refrain from mentioning it. Yet if Hsiin Yiieh knew that Kao-tsu's given name was Pang, Ssu-ma
The new operating room environment.

Endovascular surgery has evolved from relatively basic percutaneous balloon dilatations of arterial stenoses to highly complex and sophisticated endoluminal graft placement for various indications. Many innovations have occurred in catheter-based technology, thus expanding the indications and applications of endovascular procedures. A variety of vascular operations can now be performed percutaneously or via a small cutdown. This minimally invasive approach to vascular disease has gained wide acceptance among physicians and patients. 10 Perhaps one of the most critical factors in the ability to perform endovascular procedures safely and reliably is the availability of a well-equipped endovascular suite. 8,16 Although many of the simple endovascular procedures can be performed in existing facilities, an environment of proper sterility and preparedness is needed to perform combined surgical exposures and endoluminal procedures. 5,6,12 This article outlines the necessary equipment, hardware, and software in a contemporary operating endovascular suite.
The water disinfectant byproduct dibromoacetonitrile induces apoptosis in rat intestinal epithelial cells: possible role of redox imbalance.

Chemically induced oxidative stress poses cytotoxic effects on intestinal epithelial cells that may trigger various forms of injuries in intestinal mucosa. Haloacetonitriles, including dibromoacetonitrile (DBAN, a drinking water contaminant and direct acting mutagen and carcinogen), are known to induce GI disorders. Earlier, we showed that dichloroacetonitrile (DBAN analog) alters glutathione status and increases reactive oxygen species in murine macrophage cell line. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to understand the role of redox imbalance and apoptosis in DBAN-induced GI disorders using rat intestinal epithelial (RIE) cells.Cultured confluent monolayers of RIE cells were continuously exposed to DBAN at 50 to 400 ppb (0.6 to 4.4 μM). After 24, 48, and 72 h of the exposure, oxidative stress and apoptosis were determined. At higher exposure regimens (100 to 400 ppb), a concentration- and time-dependent increase in glutathione disulfide levels (1.5 to 4-fold and 1.6 to 5-fold, p < 0.05) was noti...
Exo-endocytosis at mossy fiber terminals: toward capacitance measurements in cells with arbitrary geometry.

Exocytosis and endocytosis are ubiquitous cellular phenomena necessary for diverse functions such as secretion, internal signaling, protein traffic, and motility. Many different techniques have been developed to assay exocytosis and endocytosis, but to date only electrical measurements of plasma membrane capacitance have had the time resolution necessary to capture both the fusion and reuptake of small clear-core vesicle membrane during fast neurotransmission. In this issue of PNAS, Hallermann et al. (1) present capacitance measurements from hippocampal mossy fiber nerve terminals during stimulated exocytosis. These are the first time-resolved membrane capacitance measurements from bona fide (albeit relatively large) bouton-type synaptic terminals, with diameters of ≈3 μm and a resting capacitance of ≈1 pF. The results obtained not only provide important data on basic synaptic properties of this nerve terminal, in particular on the vesicle pool size and the question of multivesicular release, but also provide an example of how to extend capacitance measurements from cells with simple and compact geometry to more general classes of neurons and nerve terminals. The accessibility of exocytosis and endocytosis to voltage-clamp measurements stems from the fact that these processes, by their nature, change the surface area of the plasma membrane. Because the plasma membrane acts as an electrical capacitor, changes in surface area can be detected as changes in its total capacitance. Thus by electrical measurements, net changes in plasma membrane (i.e., exocytosis minus endocytosis) can be measured. Coupled with voltage protocols that open voltagegated calcium channels, this technique can be used to follow membrane changes during Ca2+-dependent secretion of neurotransmitters. If exocytosis and endocytosis are temporally distinct phenomena, the rate of exocytosis can be determined by measuring capacitance jumps triggered by step depolarizations of different durations (see refs. 2–5). In addition, synaptic vesicle membrane retrieval (or reinternalization via endocytosis) …
Prenatal Treatment of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Promising Experimental Therapy of Unproven Safety

The long-term safety of the prenatal treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) has not been established, and it remains an experimental therapy that raises unique ethical questions. Prenatal treatment should be performed only according to controlled, prospective, peer-reviewed protocols carried out according to strict scientific and ethical standards. Such studies must incorporate detailed, decades-long follow-up to permit accurate appraisal of its efficacy and safety, especially among the seven of eight fetuses who receive unneeded treatment.
Automation of Process Planning for Rough Boring of Turned Components With Monotonic Internal Primary Features

This paper describes a novel method for automated process planning from bar stock for rough boring of turned components with monotonic internal geometry. By focussing on a well-defined but substantial part family, we are able to achieve complete automation of all aspects of the process plan, including operations sequencing, parameter selection, NC code generation, etc. Thus, it becomes possible to go from design to NC code in a fully automated fashion. The focus on a tightly defined part family also results in very simple but robust automation algorithms. This is in contrast to much of the reported work on automated process planning, which generally target diverse part families, leading to complex algorithms that fall short of complete design-to-NC automation.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Collagen thermal damage and collagen synthesis after cutaneous laser resurfacing.

Background and Objective: Objectively measure and compare postoperative collagen thermal damage and subsequent new collagen synthesis after cutaneous laser resurfacing using two carbon dioxide laser systems. Study Design/Materials and Methods: We created 240 resurfacing wounds on eight piglets with scanned and short-pulsed lasers using the manufacturer's suggested settings. The wounds varied with respect to the number of laser passes and postoperative survival times. Samples were harvested for histological analysis. Results The scanned laser resulted in an average of 52% more collagen thermal damage on the day of surgery (P < 0.0001) and an average of 78% more thermal damage 3 days postoperative (P < 0.0001) than the short-pulsed laser. The amount of new collagen synthesis correlated with the amount of thermal damage, with the scanned laser wounds showing 44% greater new collagen synthesis than the short-pulsed laser wounds on postoperative day 7 (P < 0.0001) and 48% greater new collagen synthesis on postoperative day 14 (P < 0.0001). Conclusion Compared to the short-pulsed laser, the scanned laser results in a greater depth of collagen thermal damage with a correspondingly greater depth of new collagen synthesis after cutaneous resurfacing. Lasers Surg. Med. 23:66–71, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural study of discrepant cellular competence for paramyxovirus production.

Abstract Ultrastructural examination of mumps virus-infected chicken embryonic heart and liver cells failed to confirm that the cell type with superior capability for paramyxovirus production did so by more efficient enveloping and complete release of virions. The few infected cells in both heart and liver cultures contained cytoplasmic nucleocapsids and evidence of only early viral budding.
Seasonal and environmental variations in sediment accretion in a Long Island salt marsh

Flax Pond is a small (0.5 km2) salt marsh on the north shore of Long Island, New York. Two 1 m2 plots within each of the following environments were covered with a marker layer of either brick dust or aluminum glitter: 1) bare mud flats; 2) areas newly colonized by Spartina alterniflora; and 3) high intertidal. S. alterniflora peat surfaces. Monthly cores revealed the amount of sediment that accumulated since placement of the marker. Accretion rates from October, 1974 to February, 1976 were as follows: bare mud flats −20.5 to 45.5 mm/yr; recently vegetated mud flats −9.5 to 37.0 mm/yr; and high intertidal peat surfaces −2.0 to 4.25 mm/yr. Sedimentation rates decrease with increasing elevation because of the reduced tidal submergence time and decreased height of the overlying water column. In areas of low elevation, ice and storms cause either erosion or a reduced rate of accretion during the winter months. The average mud accretion rate over the past 173 years is 3.4 mm/yr. Differences between the short-term rate and the long-term rate indicate substantial annual variation in the accumulation of mud in salt marshes. Short-term rates of peat accretion are similar to long-term estimates, indicating that rates of peat accretion are relatively constant over long intervals.