cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acquiring Literacy: A Library Exhibit

Research libraries acquire materials in a broad range of subject areas with the aim of developing a diverse collection addressing the varied needs and interests of a wide range of users. Large libraries can house millions of volumes, most of which are not highly visible to library patrons; instead, they are used by a small number of patrons conducting research on a specific topic. This is where library exhibits make a big difference, publicizing resources that can get lost in a large collection. Libraries often display materials to promote special collections, rare and other valuable items, and to show the . . .
A query expansion framework in image retrieval domain based on local and global analysis

We present an image retrieval framework based on automatic query expansion in a concept feature space by generalizing the vector space model of information retrieval. In this framework, images are represented by vectors of weighted concepts similar to the keyword-based representation used in text retrieval. To generate the concept vocabularies, a statistical model is built by utilizing Support Vector Machine (SVM)-based classification techniques. The images are represented as ''bag of concepts'' that comprise perceptually and/or semantically distinguishable color and texture patches from local image regions in a multi-dimensional feature space. To explore the correlation between the concepts and overcome the assumption of feature independence in this model, we propose query expansion techniques in the image domain from a new perspective based on both local and global analysis. For the local analysis, the correlations between the concepts based on the co-occurrence pattern, and the metrical constraints based on the neighborhood proximity between the concepts in encoded images, are analyzed by considering local feedback information. We also analyze the concept similarities in the collection as a whole in the form of a similarity thesaurus and propose an efficient query expansion based on the global analysis. The experimental results on a photographic collection of natural scenes and a biomedical database of different imaging modalities demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in terms of precision and recall.
Telomere dysfunction provokes regional amplification and deletion in cancer genomes

Telomere dysfunction and associated fusion-breakage in the mouse encourages epithelial carcinogenesis and a more humanized genomic profile that includes nonreciprocal translocations (NRTs). Here, array comparative genomic hybridization was used to determine the pathogenic significance of NRTs and to determine whether telomere dysfunction also drives amplifications and deletions of cancer-relevant loci. Compared to tumors arising in mice with intact telomeres, tumors with telomere dysfunction possessed higher levels of genomic instability and showed numerous amplifications and deletions in regions syntenic to human cancer hotspots. These observations suggest that telomere-based crisis provides a mechanism of chromosomal instability, including regional amplifications and deletions, that drives carcinogenesis. This model provides a platform for discovery of genes responsible for the major cancers affecting aged humans.
Application of the finite element method to powdered metal compaction processes

Abstract A plasticity theory is summarized for a powdered metal compact. The constitutive equation is applied to the variational principle and its discretization is developed. The discretized formulation has been implemented into the finite element code and the program has been tested and applied to simulations of axisymmetric die pressings with copper powders. The simulation includes single-action and double-action pressings of solid cylinders as well as cylindrical rings. Predictions are made for density distributions, mean stress distributions, load-stroke relationships, average density as function of height, average density as function of radius, pressure distributions along die-walls and punches, and force fraction transmitted to the stationary punch. Some of the predicted solutions are compared with experimental observations from the literature. It was found that the results from the finite element analysis, in general, agree very well with the experimental observations.
Accuracy of point source models with coincident phase centers in a cubic FDTD grid for arbitrary source orientation

Standard point source modeling in the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method has been accomplished by centering the source at the appropriate electric or magnetic field node in a given Yee cell. While this methodology is adequate for many applications, it produces a source whose Cartesian oriented field components have slightly different phase centers, which yields a visible propagation delay between these components. For phase sensitive applications, more accurate consideration of the source phase center may be required. In this study, we introduce a means of producing point sources with coincident phase centers. We will show that these sources provide good accuracy at close distances to the phase center while outperforming the standard sources in the near field when an arbitrary direction of the point source moment is required.
Quantitative understanding of cell signaling: The importance of membrane organization

Systems biology modeling of signal transduction pathways traditionally employs ordinary differential equations, deterministic models based on the assumptions of spatial homogeneity. However, this can be a poor approximation for certain aspects of signal transduction, especially its initial steps: the cell membrane exhibits significant spatial organization, with diffusion rates approximately two orders of magnitude slower than those in the cytosol. Thus, to unravel the complexities of signaling pathways, quantitative models must consider spatial organization as an important feature of cell signaling. Furthermore, spatial separation limits the number of molecules that can physically interact, requiring stochastic simulation methods that account for individual molecules. Herein, we discuss the need for mathematical models and experiments that appreciate the importance of spatial organization in the membrane.
Analysis of the effectiveness of preventive and deterrent piracy control strategies: Agent-based modeling approach

We use agent-based modeling approach to analyze the impact of various digital piracy control strategies on consumers, retailers, record labels, and artists. We model heterogeneous agent behavior, motives, and interactions to examine the consequences in terms of aggregate system behavior. Using a multi-agent programmable modeling environment (Netlogo), several experiments were conducted to test the simulation model and develop managerial insights. We show that an educational strategy is more effective when consumers are resistant to anti-piracy efforts and budgets for combating piracy are small. Furthermore, value-added service and low-price strategies should be used to encourage legitimate purchases since legal and educational strategies alone deter piracy but do not provide consumers' incentives to purchase legitimate products. Therefore, effectiveness of piracy control strategies can be improved by combining a legal or an educational strategy with a value-added or a low-price strategy. We also find that the profit-maximizing strategies are different for different players in the supply chain. While the record label prefers a low-cost strategy, it is optimal for the whole supply chain to use combined legal or educational strategy with a value-added strategy. Therefore, there is potential for all parties in the supply chain being better off if the record label and the retailer cooperate in combating piracy.
Analytical and preparative electrophoresis of RNA in agarose-urea.

Abstract Agarose-6 m urea gels at neutral pH stained with ethidium bromide give high resolution of complex mixtures of RNA molecules. These RNA species can be readily distinguished from contaminating DNA, which does not have to be purified away from the RNA, and electrophoresis can be carried out using phenol-saturated deproteinated cellular extracts without loss of resolution. Individual RNA species can be extracted from the gels by freezing, thawing, and centrifugation; the RNA may then be purified by phenol extraction and ethanol precipitation. Such purified RNA is an excellent substrate for RNA-DNA hybridization and cell-free translation. In addition, the RNA can be easily transferred with high resolution from the agarose-6 m urea gels to diazobenzyloxymethyl paper for subsequent hybridization to labeled DNA.
Three new species of the Eriopisa group (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Eriopisidae) from Japan, with the description of a new genus

Three new species of the Eriopisa group (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Eriopisidae) are described from coastal areas in Japan. Paraflagitopisa gen. nov. is established with P. excavata sp. nov. as its type species. This new genus is characterized by (1) entire lateral cephalic lobe, (2) unfused flagellum of antenna 2, (3) 3-articulated mandibular palp, (4) carpus of gnathopod 1 longer than propodus, (5) transverse palm of gnathopod 1, and (6) slender outer ramus of uropod 3 with long second article, and can be distinguished from the closely related genus, Flagitopisa, by the article 2 of mandibular palp longer than article 3, the undilated bases of pereopods 3-4, and the slender inner ramus of uropod 3. Psammogammarus lobatus sp. nov. is characterized by (1) male gnathopod 2 with excavated palm, (2) posterodistally projected bases of pereopods 5-7, (3) quadrate posteroventral corner of pleonal epimeron 3, (4) short inner ramus of uropod 3, and (5) article 2 of uropod 3 outer ramus longer than article 1. Victoriopisa wadai sp. nov. has the following characters: (1) eyes absent, (2) peduncle of antenna 1 not heavily setose, (3) accessory flagellum with 1-2 articles, (4) flagellum of antenna 2 composed of 2 long and 3 short articles, (5) gnathopod 2 in both sexes with excavated palm, (6) merus of pereopod 7 moderately expanded, and (7) ventral margin of pleonite 2 slightly setose. Key to species of the Eriopisa group in Japan is provided.
Caveolin-1 Interacts Directly with Dynamin-2

Caveolin is the principal component of caveolae in vivo. In addition to a structural role, it is believed to play a scaffolding function to organize and inactivate signaling molecules that are concentrated on the cytoplasmic surface of caveolar membranes. The large GTPase dynamin has been shown to mediate the scission of caveolae from the plasma membrane, although it is unclear if dynamin interacts directly with caveolin or via accessory proteins. Therefore, the goal of this study was to test whether dynamin associates with caveolae via a direct binding to the caveolin 1 (Cav1) protein. Immunoelectron microscopy of lung endothelium or a cultured hepatocyte cell line stained with antibodies for Dyn2 and Cav1 shows that these proteins co-localize to caveolae. To further define this interaction biochemically, in vitro experiments were performed using glutathione-S-transferase (GST)-Dyn2 and GST-Cav1 fusion proteins, which demonstrated a direct interaction between these proteins. This interaction appears to be mediated by the proline-arginine-rich domain (PRD) of Dyn2, as a GST-PRD fragment binds Cav1 while GST-Dyn2DeltaPRD does not. Further, in vitro binding studies using two Dyn2 spliced forms and Cav1 peptides immobilized on paper identify specific domains of Cav1 that bind Dyn2. Interestingly, these Cav1-binding domains differ markedly between two spliced variant forms of Dyn2. In support of these distinctive physical interactions, we find that the different Dyn2 forms, when expressed as GTPase-defective mutants, exert markedly different inhibitory effects on caveolae internalization, as assayed by cholera toxin uptake. These studies provide the first evidence for a direct interaction between dynamin and the caveolin coat, and demonstrate a selectivity of one Dyn2 form toward the caveolae-mediated endocytosis.
An evaluation of beryllium for magnetic fusion components

Abstract This extended abstract discusses potential advantages and limitations associated with the use of beryllium in plasma interactive components of magnetic fusion devices. Pertinent aspects of beryllium properties, metallurgy and technology are cited.
Is osteoarthritis a heterogeneous disease that can be stratified into subsets

Osteoarthritis is a heterogeneous disease characterized by variable clinical features, biochemical/genetic characteristics, and responses to treatments. To optimize palliative effects of current treatments and develop efficacious disease-modifying interventions, treatments may need to be tailored to the individual or a subset of osteoarthritic joints. The purpose of this review is to explore the current literature on the clinical and physiological variability in osteoarthritis and potential for stratifying patients. Several stratifications have been reported, including mechanism of onset, stage of disease progression, involved joints, inflammatory levels, and effusion. Most of these methods revealed two to three unique subsets of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritic joints may be stratified by an array of variables, some transient and others consistent throughout the disease process. Future research needs to continue to explore stratification techniques since these may be the key to optimizing palliative interventions and developing disease-modifying interventions for subsets within this heterogeneous disease.
Developmental Changes in Ganglioside Composition and Synthesis in Embryonic Rat Brain

: Developmental changes in ganglioside composition and biosynthesis were studied in rat brain between embryonic day (E) 14 and birth. In E14 brains, GM3 and GD3 were predominant. At E16, “b” series gangliosides, such as GD1b, GT1b, and GQ1b, increased in content. After E18, “a” series gangliosides such as GM1, GD1a, and GT1a increased in content, and the content of GM3 and GD3 markedly decreased. Because of these changes in composition, we determined the activities, in homogenates of embryonic brains, of two key enzymes of ganglioside synthesis: sialyltransferase for the synthesis of GD3 from GM3 and N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase for GM2 synthesis from GM3. The sialyltransferase activity (GM3 GD3) was constant between E14 and E18 but decreased rapidly from E18 to birth. In contrast, the N-acetylgalacto-saminyltransferase activity (GM3 ± GM2) increased between E14 and E18 but was constant from E18 to birth. These changes in ganglioside composition and enzymatic activities indicate that during development there is a shift from synthesis of the simplest gangliosides of the “a” and “b” pathways to synthesis of the more complex gangliosides.
Medical education and the pharmaceutical industry: a review of ethical guidelines and their implications for psychiatric training.

This article reviews and summarizes eight ethical guidelines of major professional organizations regarding the pharmaceutical industry’s role in the psychiatric education of trainees. The author conducted a literature review of research and guidelines pertaining to the pharmaceutical industry’s relationship to trainees, with special attention to ethical implications. A spectrum of ethical acceptability is represented in the various guidelines. The greatest disagreement exists regarding the appropriateness of gift-giving and hospitality. The greatest degree of consensus exists regarding the provision of and criteria for scholarships to trainees. Policies regarding the use of samples and the industry’s influence on graduate medical education were less well developed compared with other areas. A review of guidelines can serve as a basis for dialogue, curricula development, and further research on the ethics of pharmaceutical company interactions with trainees in academic psychiatry.
Association of Coronary Disease With Segment-Specific Intimal-Medial Thickening of the Extracranial Carotid Artery

Background Several investigators have evaluated relations between risk factors and intimal-medial thickness (IMT) of the extracranial carotid arteries and between IMT and clinical cardiovascular disease. Different indexes of IMT have been used as referents. We compared the strength of association of various IMT measurements with coronary artery disease as measured at coronary angiography. Methods and Results We quantified the mean of the IMT for 12 sites of the extracranial carotid arteries (common carotid, bifurcation, internal carotid, near and far walls, and left and right sides [mean aggregate]) as well as for various combinations of sites (eg, segment-specific means, far walls only, maximum of any site) in 270 patients with or free of coronary artery disease. Models including age and all the indexes of IMT identified the mean aggregate as the only variable independently associated with the status of coronary atherosclerosis for the group as a whole. Next most strongly correlated was the mean common p...
Trust management with delegation in grouped peer-to-peer communities

Trust Management is increasingly playing a major role especially with the growing need for security in decentralized, unsecured networks like peer-to-peer networks. Effective trust management solutions especially one geared towards handling trust in peer groups within peer communities are the key to handle the emerging security threats and scalability issues. Using a delegation infrastructure can provide a tremendous boost in terms of autonomy and division of labor in group based peer-to-peer communities.In our work we propose an effective trust system built on top of a peer group infrastructure that not only manages trust within communities but also between different communities. We also propose a delegation infrastructure that can be applied effectively to any grouped peer-to-peer community.
Sex, prions, and plasmids in yeast

Even deadly prions may be widespread in nature if they spread by infection faster than they kill off their hosts. The yeast prions [PSI+] and [URE3] (amyloids of Sup35p and Ure2p) were not found in 70 wild strains, while [PIN+] (amyloid of Rnq1p) was found in ∼16% of the same population. Yeast prion infection occurs only by mating, balancing the detrimental effects of carrying the prion. We estimated the frequency of outcross mating as about 1% of mitotic doublings from the known detriment of carrying the 2-μm DNA plasmid (∼1%) and its frequency in wild populations (38/70). We also estimated the fraction of total matings that are outcross matings (∼23–46%) from the fraction of heterozygosity at the highly polymorphic RNQ1 locus (∼46%). These results show that the detriment of carrying even the mildest forms of [PSI+], [URE3], or [PIN+] is greater than 1%. We find that Rnq1p polymorphisms in wild strains include several premature stop codon alleles that cannot propagate [PIN+] from the reference allele and others with several small deletions and point mutations which show a small transmission barrier. Wild strains carrying [PIN+] are far more likely to be heterozygous at RNQ1 and other loci than are [pin−] strains, probably reflecting its being a sexually transmitted disease. Because sequence differences are known to block prion propagation or ameliorate its pathogenic effects, we hypothesize that polymorphism of RNQ1 was selected to protect cells from detrimental effects of the [PIN+] prion.
Virtual space reduction in quasi-particle electron propagator calculations: Applications to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Recently developed techniques of virtual space reduction in quasi-particle electron propagator calculations are applied to naphthalene, anthracene, phenanthrene, naphthacene, pentacene, and hexacene. Electron density difference matrices corresponding to second-order transition energies are used to reduce the rank of the virtual orbital space for further electron propagator calculations in the partial third-order approximation. Within this approach, only minor deviations from ionization energies obtained with the full virtual orbital space are introduced. Comparison is made with a conventional, energy-based virtual orbital space contraction. No more than 0.14 eV of the calculated ionization energy is lost when the virtual space's dimension is reduced by 50%. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
On the construct validity of intrinsic sources of personal relevance

Abstract This study offers a commentary on the article by Celsi published in this issue of the journal. Some limitations of the methodology, measures, model used to examine nomological validity, and the data used by them are discussed. A general strategy for investigating construct validity using structural equations methodology is recommended.
Experimental Atmospheric Extinction Measurements At Nine Wavelengths Between 0.3 And 10 µm

AbstractAccurate determinations of the widely varying spectral extinction of the direct solarbeam by the earth's atmosphere has applications in several fields; these include solarenergy, optical communication and remote sensing of atmospheric parameters. A system usedto make extinction measurements at nine wavelengths in the 0.3 to 10 pm range is describedand sample results are presented. Plans to use the data to study remotely the character-istics of clouds and aerosols, particularly the size distributions of the particles alongthe transmission path, are discussed.IntroductionThe atmosphere acts as a continually varying filter to solar radiation penetrating it.Some of the more important processes include molecular scattering, absorption by thevarious atmospheric gases, and scattering by hydrometeors (e.g., cloud droplets, raindrops and ice crystals) and by lithometeors (suspended solid particles). Of these, theonly one which remains nearly constant for a given site and which can be computed reliablyis molecular (Rayleigh') scattering. Absorption due to water vapor varies widely becauseof large variations in the amount of this gaseous component in the atmosphere, and absorp-tion due to stratospheric ozone also fluctuates significantly.The concentration and size distribution of lithometeors and hydrometeors may take on awide range of values and may sometimes be highly variable in time and space. An obviousexample of the latter is cumulus clouds which may form, then dissipate in a matter ofminutes.The spectral transmission characteristics of the atmosphere are of obvious interest todesigners of solar energy systems and optical communications systems. Other importantapplications of spectral transmission data include climate studies and determination ofthe radiation budget of the earth. Also, measured spectral transmission can be used todeduce the amount and characteristics of absorbing and scattering components in the atmos-phere. This paper involves measurements of the extinction at nine wavelengths in therange 0.3 to 10 pm. The instrumentation used, the analysis procedures employed and sampleresults are presented.InstrumentationDuring the past decade, the concept of using several experimental techniques simultan-eously to make atmospheric measurements has been gradually implemented in the Wave Propaga-tion Laboratory (WPL) of NOAA. The data thus obtained usually leads to a more completedescription of atmospheric conditions than can be obtained by a single technique andallows the different techniques to be cross -checked and calibrated. Among the methodsused are backscatter lidar, microwave radar, acoustic sounder, time -lapse photography,photometry, radiometry and in situ sampling by aircraft -borne probes.This paper describes atmospheric transmission results obtained from narrow beamwidthphotometers at wavelengths ranging from 0.3 to 10 pm using the sun as a source. Otherdata types will be mentioned only in a peripheral way to indicate their usefulness inanalysis of the photometric data.
Thermoelastic state of an infinite thermo-sensitive body with cylindrical cavity under condition of convective heat exchange

We find the solution of the uncoupled problem of thermoelasticity for an infinite thermo-sensitive body with a cylindrical cavity the surface of which is loaded with a constant pressure and through which convective heat exchange with a medium of constant temperature occurs. The influences of the thermosensitivity of the material of the body on the values and characters of distributions of temperature, displacements, and the components of the stress tensor are determined.
On minimizing the total flow time on multiple machines

We consider the problem of minimizing the total flow time on multiple machines with preemption, where the flow time of a job is the time spent since it arrives until it finishes. Our main result is a quasi-polynomial time approximation scheme for a constant number of machines (m). The result also extends to total weighted flow time where either the job weights or the job sizes are polynomially bounded by the number of jobs (n). We also show that the dependence on m cannot be substantially improved. In particular, obtaining an O(1) approximation for the weighted case (even when all weights and sizes are polynomially bounded by n) by an algorithm with running time npolylog(n,m) would imply that NP ⊂ DTIME(npolylog(n)).
Urinary prostaglandin e2 excretion in chronic renal disease

To ascertain whether renal prostaglandin E2 production is impaired in chronic renal disease we measured urinary prostaglandin E2 in 25 female renal patiens, and in 38 female noirmal volunteers. Prostaglandin E2 averaged 337 +/- 63 ng/24 hr in 25 female renal patients, which was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than values in normal female subjects (166 +/- 17 ng/24 hr). None of the renal patients excreted less than 50 ng/24 hr, whereas normals when treated with indomethacin averaged 30 +/- 10 ng/24 hr (n=8). There were no significant correlations between prostaglandin E2 and creatinine clearance, or urine volume. No difference in prostaglandin E2 was encountered between hypertensive and normotensive renal patients. Our results indicate that renal prostaglandin E2 production is increased rather than decreased in renal disease. The failure to demonstrate decreased urinary prostaglandin E2 excretion in renal hypertension sharply contrasts with the situation in essential hypertension.
Outcomes after transplantation for “failed” Fontan: A single-institution experience

Objective Despite the excellent outcomes in the current era after the Fontan procedure, it continues to have an inherent risk of failure. Cardiac transplantation provides 1 option for treating these patients; however, the indications for, timing of, and outcomes after, transplantation remain undefined. We examined our own institutional experience with transplantation for failed Fontan. Methods The records of 155 patients transplanted for congenital heart disease at a single institution from June 1984 to September 2007 were reviewed. Of these patients, 43 had undergone a previous Fontan procedure (25 male, 15 female; median age, 14.5 years; range, 1–47; 23 classic Fontan, 13 lateral tunnel, 4 extracardiac conduit, and 3 revised to shunt). The predictors of short- and long-term survival were evaluated, and the Fontan patients were compared with all other patients with congenital heart disease (n = 129, 78 male, 51 female). Results The most common indications for transplantation included protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) (39.5%), chronic heart failure (41.8%), and acute post-Fontan failure (9.3%). The transplants performed in Fontan patients were more likely to require pulmonary artery reconstruction (85.4% vs 42.9%; P P P = .055). No correlation was observed between the interval from Fontan to transplantation and morality; however, renal failure was a strong predictor of early mortality (odds ratio, 10.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.5–75.7). Conclusions Transplantation is an acceptable treatment for patients with a failed Fontan. Clinical factors (instead of the indication for transplantation) appear to have the greatest correlation with early mortality.
Cost effectiveness of a benzodiazepine vs a nonbenzodiazepine-based sedation regimen for mechanically ventilated, critically ill adults.

Abstract Purpose Nonbenzodiazepine sedation (eg, dexmedetomidine or propofol) may be more cost effective than benzodiazepine (BZ) sedation despite its higher acquisition cost. Materials and methods A cost effectiveness (CE) analysis of noncardiac surgery, critically ill adults requiring at least 1 day of mechanical ventilation (MV) and administered either BZ or non-BZ sedation, that cycled health states and costs daily using a Markov model accounting for daily MV use until intensive care unit (ICU) discharge, was conducted from a third-party perspective. Transition probabilities were obtained from a published meta-analysis, and costs were estimated from best evidence. Sensitivity analyses were run for all extubation and discharge probabilities, for different cost estimates and for the specific non-BZ administered. Results When non-BZ rather than BZ sedation was used, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio to avert 1 ICU day while MV or while either MV or non-MV was $3406 and $3136, respectively. The base-case analysis revealed that non-BZ sedation (vs BZ sedation) resulted in higher drug costs ($1327 vs $65) but lower total ICU costs (percent accounted for MV need): $35 380 (71.0%) vs $45 394 (70.6%). Sensitivity analysis revealed that BZ sedation would only be less costly if the daily rate of extubation was at least 16%, and the daily rate of ICU discharge without MV was at least 77%. The incremental CE ratio to avert 1 ICU day while MV or non-MV was similar between the dexmedetomidine and propofol non-BZ options. Conclusions Among MV adults, non-BZ sedation has a more favorable CE ratio than BZ sedation over most cost estimates.
Neutral amino acid transport systems in animal cells: potential targets of oncogene action and regulators of cellular growth.

Amino acid uptake by a tissue cell in a multicellular organism appears to be one of several determinants of growth rate. While a multiplicity of transport systems for amino acids exists for the uptake of these essential nutrients, only a few of these have been subject to careful and critical analysis (see section B). Of these systems, one particular system, the system A transporter, has been found to be regulated by a wide variety of external stimuli and conditions (section C), and in some cells, its activity correlates reasonably well with growth state (section D). System A is thus one of the few identified transport systems which appears to be a target of protooncogene and oncogene action and regulator of cellular growth (section E). In this review, the evidence for this postulate is presented and evaluated.
Automated analysis of four-dimensional magnetic resonance images of the human aorta

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate the accuracy and clinical utility of an automated method of image analysis of 4D (3D + time) magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the human aorta. Serial MR images of the entire thoracic aorta were acquired on 32 healthy individuals. Graph theory based segmentation was applied to the images and cross sectional area (CSA) was determined for the entire length of thoracic aorta. Mean CSA was compared between the 3 years. CSA values at the level of sinuses of Valsalva and sino-tubular junction were used to calculate average diameters for comparison to Roman-Devereux norms. A robust automated segmentation method was developed that accurately reproduced CSA measurements for the entire length of thoracic aorta in serially acquired scans with a 1% error compared to expert tracing. Calculated aortic root diameters based on CSA correlated with Roman-Devereux norms. Mean CSA for the aortic root agreed well with previously published manually derived values. Automated analysis of 4D MR images of the thoracic aorta provides accurate and reproducible results for CSA in healthy human subjects. The ability to simultaneously analyze the entire length of thoracic aorta throughout the cardiac cycle opens the door to the calculation of novel indices of aortic biophysical properties. These novel indices may lead to earlier detection of patients at risk for adverse events.
Scale morphologic response to aromatic hydrocarbons.

Recently in Louisiana, there has been concern about the primary contributing agent to fish kills. Methods are available to sample fish populations and analyze for contaminants. These methods require a sacrifice of animals as well as expensive and sophisticated equipment. The purpose of this study was to design a simple and inexpensive procedure utilizing scales without sacrificing the fish in an effort to assess the environment.
Mutagenesis and peptide analysis of the DRY motif in the α2A adrenergic receptor: evidence for alternate mechanisms in G protein-coupled receptors

In G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), a conserved aspartic acid in the DRY motif at the cytoplasmic end of helix 3 regulates the transition to the active state, while the adjacent arginine is crucial for G protein activation. To examine the functions of these two residues, we made D130I and R131Q mutations in the alpha2A adrenergic receptor (AR). We demonstrate that, unlike other GPCRs, the alpha2A AR is not constitutively activated by the D130I mutation, although the mutation increases agonist affinity. While the R131Q mutation severely disrupts function, it decreases rather than increasing agonist affinity as seen in other GPCRs. We then investigated the molecular effects of the same mutations in a peptide model and showed that Arg131 is not required for peptide-mediated G protein activation. These results indicate that the alpha2A AR does not follow the conventional GPCR mechanistic paradigm with respect to the function of the DRY motif.
IT'S NOT JUST A JOKE

Sexism is a recurrent part of women's everyday lives. One understudied area within gender scholarship is the content and implications of sexist humor as a form of sexism. In this article, we explore the sexist content of 153 Internet jokes. Our analysis demonstrates that sexist jokes offer portrayals of misogyny that serve many functions, some of which include the sexual objectification of women, devaluation of their personal and professional abilities, and support of violence against women. Implications of such humor are discussed as well as future research possibilities in this area.
Increased red cell glutamine availability in sickle cell anemia: Demonstration of increased active transport, affinity, and increased glutamate level in intact red cells

Sickle red blood cells (RBCs) have been shown to have an increase in total nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) content by an as-yet-unknown mechanism. Because glutamine is an essential precursor in NAD biosynthesis, we have examined the rates of active RBC glutamine transport and glutamine transport kinetics with Michaelis-Menten constant (K[m]) and maximum velocity (V[max]) in RBCs from patients with sickle cell disease, patients with high reticulocyte counts, and normal volunteers. In addition, plasma and RBC levels of glutamine and glutamate in the three groups were analyzed. The rate of active glutamate transport in sickle RBCs increased threefold over that in high-reticulocyte RBCs and increased 15-fold over that in normal RBCs. Glutamine transport K(m) in sickle RBCs was decreased fivefold in comparison with that in the high-reticulocyte group and that in normal control subjects. Glutamine transport V(max) for sickle RBCs was twofold and eightfold higher in comparison with those in the high-reticulocyte RBCs and normal control RBCs, respectively. Finally, the level of RBC glutamate (a byproduct of glutamine in NAD synthesis) in the sickle group was significantly increased in comparison with that in the high-reticulocyte group, whereas the RBC glutamine level was not. The higher glutamate level in sickle cells may suggest a higher glutamine turnover in these cells. These data suggest that sickle RBCs have an increased glutamine availability and affinity that may facilitate the increase in total NAD in sickle RBCs.
A globally and quadratically convergent affine scaling method for linear e 1 problems

Recently, various interior point algorithms related to the Karmarkar algorithm have been developed for linear programming. In this paper, we first show how this “interior point” philosophy can be adapted to the linear l1 problem (in which there are no feasibility constraints) to yield a globally and linearly convergent algorithm. We then show that the linear algorithm can be modified to provide aglobally and ultimatelyquadratically convergent algorithm. This modified algorithm appears to be significantly more efficient in practise than a more straightforward interior point approach via a linear programming formulation: we present numerical results to support this claim.
Effect of spinal cord transection on plasma and hepatic levels of certain essential elements and vitamins in rats

Abstract This study was conducted to determine whether spinal cord transection produces nutritional deficiency states in certain essential elements and water soluble vitamins in the rat. Spinal cords of female rats were severed at the T-9 level and these animals were matched and pair-fed to control animals that had undergone sham surgery. Following periods of 60, 90 and 180 days, animals were sacrificed and their plasma and livers assayed for selenium, manganese, zinc and magnesium and eight water soluble vitamins. The results indicate that spinal cord injury did not cause deficiencees in those nutrients studied. Instead the cord transection produced accumulations in the liver of all the elements and six of the vitamins studied. No explanation for these accumulations is known at this time.
Measurement of ejection fraction in man by videodensitometry.

This report describes a new method based on roentgen videodensitometry for the measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction in man. The net forward ejection fraction (NFEF) is calculated directly from the formula NFEF = 1-exp (−.693/N), where N is the number of cardiac cycles necessary for half of the injected contrast material to be washed out of the left ventricle. The derivation of this formula is presented, and the technique is validated by comparison with washout curves from a Lucite model of the heart and with simultaneous angiographically determined left ventricular ejection fractions in man. The videodensitometry technique offers the following advantages over the conventional volume technique: (1) only a small amount of contrast material is required; (2) ectopic beats are uncommon during the washout phase when measurements are made; (3) the ejection fraction measured is an average of several cardiac cycles; and (4) dependence upon operator interpretation is minimized. Furthermore, given adequate mixing within the chamber, NFEF should be independent of ventricular geometry. Thus, NFEF of the unusually shaped left ventricle can be readily determined.
Magnetic resonance studies of optical spin polarization in triplet state anthracene

Abstract EPR studies of the lowest triplet state of anthracene in a phenazine host crystal reveal a non-Boltzmann distribution over the triplet spin levels of ≈1.5°K. Measurements of the lifetimes for each of the triple spin states provide information about both intramolecular decay processes and intermolecular triplet energy transfer mechanisms in the mixed crystal system.
Desmin and vimentin coexist at the periphery of the myofibril Z disc

Abstract Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis has revealed that vimentin, the predominant subunit of intermediate filaments in cells of mesenchymal origin, is a component of isolated skeletal myofibrils. It thus coexists in mature muscle fibers with desmin, the major subunit of muscle intermediate filaments. Antisera to desmin and vimentin, shown to be specific for their respective antigens by two-dimensional immunoautoradiography, have been used in immunofluorescence to demonstrate that vimentin has the same distribution as desmin in skeletal muscle. Both desmin and vimentin surround each myofibril Z disc and form honeycomb-like networks within each Z plane of the muscle fiber. This distribution is complementary to that of α-actinin within a given Z plane. Desmin and vimentin may thus be involved in maintaining the lateral registration of sarcomeres by transversely linking adjacent myofibrils at their Z discs. This linkage would support and integrate the fiber as a whole, and provide a molecular basis for the cross-striated appearance of skeletal muscle.
Flavor and oxidative stability of hydrogenated and unhydrogenated soybean oils. Efficacy of plastic packaging

Soybean oils were packaged in polyvinylchloride, acrylonitrile, clear glass and amber glass bottles and their flavor stabilities were evaluated by a trained sensory panel. Hydrogenated and unhyrdogenated oils showed similar patterns of flavor deterioration regardless of container or type of aging. In accelerated light-exposure tests with air in the headspace, oils in plastic bottles showed flavor and oxidative stability equivalent to the same oils in clear glass bottles. Packaging in the amber glass bottle provided, as expected, significantly improved oil stability during light-exposure tests. In accelerated storage tests at 60 C with air in the headspace, sensory evaluation and peroxide determination showed no significant differences in oils packaged in clear glass and PVC, but sometimes oils received lower scores in glass compared with those in acrylonitrile bottles. During long-term storage, oils in plastic bottles with nitrogen in the headspace had flavor and oxidative stabilities equal to oils in glass bottles with nitrogen. These investigations indicate that packaging soybean oils in polyvinylchloride or acrylonitrile bottles is a viable alternative to packaging in clear glass bottles.
Empirically evaluating decision-analytic models.

Abstract Objectives Model-based cost-effectiveness analyses support decision-making. To augment model credibility, evaluation via comparison to independent, empirical studies is recommended. Methods We developed a structured reporting format for model evaluation and conducted a structured literature review to characterize current model evaluation recommendations and practices. As an illustration, we applied the reporting format to evaluate a microsimulation of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer. The model's outputs and uncertainty ranges were compared with multiple outcomes from a study of long-term progression from high-grade precancer (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN]) to cancer. Outcomes included 5 to 30-year cumulative cancer risk among women with and without appropriate CIN treatment. Consistency was measured by model ranges overlapping study confidence intervals. Results The structured reporting format included: matching baseline characteristics and follow-up, reporting model and study uncertainty, and stating metrics of consistency for model and study results. Structured searches yielded 2963 articles with 67 meeting inclusion criteria and found variation in how current model evaluations are reported. Evaluation of the cervical cancer microsimulation, reported using the proposed format, showed a modeled cumulative risk of invasive cancer for inadequately treated women of 39.6% (30.9–49.7) at 30 years, compared with the study: 37.5% (28.4–48.3). For appropriately treated women, modeled risks were 1.0% (0.7–1.3) at 30 years, study: 1.5% (0.4–3.3). Conclusions To support external and projective validity, cost-effectiveness models should be iteratively evaluated as new studies become available, with reporting standardized to facilitate assessment. Such evaluations are particularly relevant for models used to conduct comparative effectiveness analyses.
Phonon scattering at SWCNT–SWCNT junctions in branched carbon nanotube networks

In this research article, we analyze phonon scattering in branched single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) networks with SWCNT–SWCNT T- and X- junctions using the wave packet method. Five phonon branches including the longitudinal acoustic, twisting, transverse acoustic, radial breathing, and flexural optical modes are selected to study energy reflection, ramification, and transmission through T- and X-junctions with (6,6) and (4,4) SWCNTs. The results of the simulations indicate that the diameter of SWCNTs affects phonon scattering at carbon nanotube junctions; T-junctions of (6,6) SWCNTs transmit energy more efficiently when compared to T-junctions with (4,4) SWCNTs. In addition, T-junctions of both (6,6) and (4,4) SWCNTs transmit vibrational energy more efficiently when compared to X-junctions in the same phonon frequency range—for example, in the case of the longitudinal acoustic branch, the average energy transmission at T-junctions for low-frequency phonons (lower than 6 THz) was found to be 1.8–2.4 times higher [for the case of (6.6) and (4,4) SWCNTs, respectively] when compared to the X-junctions. It is also observed that energy transmission at the T-junctions shows a dependency on the phonon group velocity with the higher group velocity phonons showing higher energy transmission; however, for the case of the X-junctions, there is little or no correlation observed between the group velocity and energy transmission indicating a complete energy redistribution of the incoming phonons at the junction. Moreover, for the SWCNT–SWCNT branched networks, the energy ramification at the T-junctions was found to be very similar to that at the X-junctions for both (6,6) and (4,4) SWCNTs indicating transverse thermal transport at the X-junctions to be as efficient as the T-junctions.
Flash-induced H+ binding by bacterial photosynthetic reaction centers: comparison of spectrophotometric and conductimetric methods

H+ binding following flash excitation of isolated reaction centers from Rhodobacter sphaeroides was measured using a conductimetric method. A procedure is described for calibrating the H+ change and the method is compared to the more widely used spectrophotometric assay of pH-indicator dyes. The two methods agree extremely well and confirm a severe paradox in the pH dependence of the H+ binding stoichiometry - that reaction centers in the light-activated, charge-separation state, P+(QAQB)−, fail to bind net protons at pH values near neutral or lower, although proton binding is seen at higher pH. This is in contrast to expectations arising from the equilibrium redox behavior of the acceptor quinones, QA and QB, and with the pH dependence of the one-electron equilibrium between Q−AQB and QAQ−B. The observed proton binding is discussed in terms of multiple protonation equilibria linked to the redox states of the acceptor quinones and of the primary donor.
À-la-Carte or Smorgasbord? Multiproduct Clubs with Costly Exclusion

Abstract Decentralized provision of multiple congestible and excludable goods is generally not socially optimal if similar goods are provided simultaneously by smorgasbord multiproduct clubs, which sell multiple club services at single prices, and other clubs, which sell services at individual prices. The different pricing rules for the similar club goods introduce an interclub externality: consumers have an incentive to use the services of smorgasbord multiproduct clubs at levels in excess of the socially optimal. The discrepancy between private and social valuations for the similar services disappears if the government intervenes and equalizes prices for the similar goods across the different types of clubs.
Ceramic Components for Gas Turbine Engines

The ceramic component design, manufacturing and inspection technologies under development for the AGT 100 automotive gas turbine promise to meet marketplace cost and performance criteria. Especially consequential developments are noted toward this goal in the case of net and near-net shape component fabrication. Integral turbine rotors, scrolls, combustors, support structures and heat exchangers have been successfully produced and evaluated. Consistency of material properties have yet to be achieved for the processing methods in question, however.