cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structure and dynamics of actin filament solutions in the presence of latrunculin A

We study the polymerization kinetics and linear rheology of actin filaments in the absence and in the presence of latrunculin A. Filamentous actin is a semiflexible polymer, and latrunculin A is an organic, actin-binding molecule. Using diffusing wave spectroscopy (DWS), we monitor the thermally excited motion of monodisperse polystyrene microspheres in semidilute solutions of actin filaments. From these measurements, we extract the microspheres mean-square displacement, which is related to the viscoelastic nature of the actin solutions. These optical measurements, along with mechanical measurements, suggest that despite its depolymerizing effect, latrunculin A promotes the strengthening of actin networks. DWS shows that while the scaling nature of the viscoelastic properties of actin filaments is essentially unmodified in the presence of latrunculin A at small time scales, the elasticity of actin solutions becomes enhanced for increasing latrunculin concentrations at large time scales. Complementary electron-microscopy measurements help uncover the structural origin of this enhanced elasticity at small time scales.
Optimal partitioning for task assignment of spatially distributed vehicles based on quadratic performance criteria

We consider the problem of characterizing an optimal Voronoi-like partition aimed at providing a baseline solution to a special class of target assignment problems involving teams of spatially distributed vehicles. It is assumed that the motion of each vehicle is described by a second order mechanical system with time-varying linear or affine dynamics. The Voronoi-like partition encodes information regarding the proximity relations between the vehicles and arbitrary target points in the plane, which are induced, in turn, by a non-symmetric (generalized) distance function that incorporates the vehicle dynamics. In particular, the generalized distance is taken to be the minimum square integral control associated with the transition of a vehicle to an arbitrary target point with (approximately) zero terminal velocity at a fixed final time. The space we wish to partition corresponds to the union of all the terminal positions that can be attained by each vehicle with approximately zero terminal velocity using finite control effort. Consequently, the partition is computed over a space with a lower dimension than the state space of each vehicle. We present an efficient computational scheme for the characterization of the Voronoi-like partition, which utilizes the one-to-one correspondence between the level sets of the cost-to-go and the Euclidean distance functions. Simulation results that illustrate the theoretical developments are presented.
Cytotoxic Triterpenoid Saponins From the Fruits of Aesculus pavia L.

Continued chemical investigation on the fruits of North American Aesculus pavia L. resulted in the isolation and identification of 13 polyhydroxyoleanene pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins, named aesculiosides IIe-IIk (1-7), and IIIa-IIIf (8-13), together with 18 known compounds: aesculiosides Ia-Ie (14-18), IIa-IId (19-22), IVa-IVc (23-25), 3-O-[beta-D-galactopyranosyl(1-->2)]-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-21,22-O-diangeloyl-3beta,15 alpha,16 alpha,21 beta,22 alpha,28-hexahydroxyolean-12-ene (26), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->2)]-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-21,22-O-diangeloyl-3beta,16 alpha,21 beta,22 alpha,24 beta,28-hexahydroxyolean-12-ene (27), 3-O-[beta-D-galactopyranosyl(1-->2)]-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl(1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-21,22-O-diangeloyl-3beta,16 alpha,21 beta,22 alpha,28-pentahydroxyolean-12-ene (28), R(1)-barrigenol (29), scopolin (30), and 5-methoxyscopolin (31). The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical analyses. Compounds 14-22 and 26-28 were tested in vitro for their activity against 59 cell lines from nine different human cancers including leukemia, non-small cell lung, colon, CNS, melanoma, ovarian, renal, prostate, and breast. It was found that compounds with two-acyl groups at C-21 and C-22 had cytotoxic activity for all cell lines tested with GI(50) 0.175-8.71 microM, while compounds without acyl groups at C-21 and C-22 had weak or no cytotoxic activity. These results suggest that the acyl groups at C-21 and C-22 are essential for their activity.
Study of relationship between pH of urine and sodium and potassium excretion.

SummaryUrinary pH was determined hourly for a minimum period of 8 hours in 46 cases. The urine samples which were collected every hour were analyzed for sodium, potassium, ammonia, chloride and titratable acidity. A definite correlation between sodium-potassium excretion and variation in pH of the urine was established. All 16 exhibiting a sodium excretion below 45 microequivalents per minute had a fixed urinary pH at a level which differed considerably from individual to individual. Only one person with a slightly higher sodium excretion (53 microequivalents per minute) had a fixed urinary pH. Potassium showed a similar pattern although less consistent, since 5 subjects with normal pH variations had a low potassium excretion.
Growth system, structure, and doping of aluminum-seeded epitaxial silicon nanowires.

We have examined the formation of silicon nanowires grown by self-assembly from Si substrates with thin aluminum films. Postgrowth and in situ investigations using various Al deposition and annealing conditions suggest that nanowire growth takes place with a supercooled liquid droplet (i.e., the vapor−liquid−solid system), even though the growth temperatures are below the bulk Al/Si eutectic temperature. Wire morphology as a function of processing conditions is also described. It is shown that when Al environmental exposure is prevented before wire growth a wide process window for wire formation can be achieved. Under optimum growth conditions, it is possible to produce excellent crystal quality nanowires with rapid growth rates, high surface densities, low diameter dispersion, and controlled tapering. Photoelectron spectroscopy measurements indicate that the use of Al leads to active doping levels that depend on the growth temperature in as-grown nanowires and increase when annealed. We suggest that thes...
The Fate of Utopia: Adaptive Tactics in Four Japanese Groups

Utopian groups, like other kinds of revitalization movements, work to create a new "cultural end-state." This implies, at the very least, a mild rejection of some of the present norms and institutions of the ambient society. To be allowed to continue its work, a utopian community must adapt to the demands of its cultural milieu, but at the same time it must do so in ways consonant with the group self-image. This essay reports on the adaptive tactics used by four Japanese utopian groups in dealing with present-day state institutions and with the public at large. It argues that in the study of utopian groups-and by extension revitalizations and revolutions-we must examine adaptive tactics as carefully as group goals if we hope to understand the fate of purposeful action in complex civilizations.
Expression, purification, and characterization of cysteine-free mouse P-glycoprotein.

Abstract Cysteine-free mouse MDR3 P-glycoprotein (Pgp) was constructed by mutagenesis of the nine natural Cys to Ala. The Cys-free protein was expressed in Pichia pastoris and purified. Yield, purity, ATPase activity, Km(MgATP), and stimulation of ATPase by verapamil, were similar to wild-type mouse Ppg. Mouse Cys-free Pgp was superior in yield and stability to Cys-free human MDR1 Pgp. Mutants Y1040A and Y1040C were constructed in mouse Cys-free Pgp background. Both showed extremely low ATPase activity, strongly-impaired vanadate-trapping of ADP, and reduced photolabeling by 8-azido-ATP. The results are consistent with the conclusion that Tyr-1040 is located in the MgATP-binding site in NBD2 and is required for correct binding and/or orientation of bound MgATP substrate in Pgp as previously suggested by X-ray structures of other ABC transporters and by sequencing of photolabeled Pgp. The results also support our previous conclusion that both catalytic sites must be intact for normal function in Pgp.
A comparison of linezolid with glycopeptides in severe MRSA pneumonia.

Evaluation of: Luna CM, Bruno DA, Garcia-Morato J et al. Effect of linezolid compared with glycopeptides in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus severe pneumonia in piglets. Chest 135(6), 1564–1571 (2009).Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has emerged as a major pathogen in nosocomial infections and accounts for a large proportion of nosocomial pneumonia. However, there are limited antibiotics available for the treatment of this serious and potentially lethal infection. Until recently, the only effective antibiotic was vancomycin, but the oxazolidinones, such as linezolid, have been shown to be a valuable addition to the arsenal of antimicrobial agents that can be used for MRSA pneumonia. Clinical trials have been conducted to compare vancomycin and linezolid head-to-head in pneumonia and, in post hoc subgroup analyses, showed that linezolid use was associated with improved survival. The ensuing debate over these results was dominated by two opinions; there were those who speculated...
Circuit partitioning simplified

The key concepts of 'tearing' are presented. Tearing is a means of circuit partitioning with a formal mechanism for piecing together the subcircuit solutions to yield the composite result. The implications of a single 'torn' element are examined, and the pertinent results for multiple partitioning are discussed. >
The salivary glands and salivary bladder of the nine-banded armadillo.

Histochemical studies of armadillo salivary glands reveal mucous acini as the predominant secretory unit of the submaxillary and parotid glands. The acidic carbohydrate moiety of the salivary mucin is mostly sialic acid since Vibrio cholera neuraminidase (sialidase) markedly reduces the alcian blue reaction in the acinar cells. Morphologically, the acini of the submaxillary gland resemble the long mucous tubules of carnivore zygomatic glands whereas the parotid gland corresponds more closely to the seromucous classification. In the submaxillary gland specialized afferent ducts terminate in a storage organ called the salivary bladder. Contents of the bladder consist of a highly viscous sialomucin plus varying amounts of acidophilic material which is negative to the periodic acid-Schiff and alcian blue reactions. The bladder itself is composed of a wall made up of cuboidal epithelium, skeletal muscle and connective tissue and it is emptied by means of a single efferent duct which leads to the oral cavity. Parotid gland striated ducts are characterized by simple columnar epithelium containing considerable amounts of glycogen in the basal two-thirds of the cells.
Rapid Synthesis and In Situ Screening of Potent HIV-1 Protease Dimerization Inhibitors

A library of dimerization inhibitors of HIV-1 protease is described based on crosslinked interfacial peptides. The 54 component library was designed to contain two modifications to the starting structure, one each in the Northern and Southern fragments. A rapid synthesis and in situ screening method in microtiter plates was developed to facilitate the generation and evaluation of the library members. More than 90% of the doubly modified agents were more potent than their respective singly mutated parent compounds, and five of the most potent dimerization inhibitors of HIV-1 protease described to date were identified. The free energy of binding for the combined two modifications was generally found to be additive, demonstrating the predictive value of earlier libraries.
A ‘Modern’ Professor in ‘Postmodern’ Land: Adventures Teaching Accounting

One adjective sometimes used to describe our current western culture is ‘postmodern’ (e.g. Klages, 2007). ‘Postmodern’ writers are frequently critical of ‘modern’ university teaching styles (e.g. T...
Measured VHF and UHF Signal Strength and Spectrum Occupancy Versus Antenna Height

Results are presented of an antenna height-gain experiment performed by the FCC Spectrum Management Task Force in the Chicago Region at four different sites. Two bands, VHF and UHF, are analyzed for their signal strength and occupancy variation versus antenna height. These results are normalized to the system performance with a 12-ft-high antenna for comparison purposes. The normalized signal is compared with the signal predicted by the FCC propagation model. The results of the experiment indicate a reasonable agreement with the propagation-model. The results of the occupancy variation indicate that there is a definite increase of occupancy with height for VHF, and very slight increase of occupancy for UHF.
Presence of a specific immune complex in the cell-free ascites of a spontaneously metastasizing rat mammary adenocarcinoma, TMT-081.

We have previously reported that a mammary tissue-specific antigen (MTA) occurs in the circulation of rats bearing the metastatic mammary tumor, TMT-081. In this communication we present imunochemical evidence that MTA also exists in the form of a soluble immune complex in the sera and ascites of TMT-081-bearing rats. This immune complex, however, has no effect on the growth of TMT-081 in rats. Neither the MTA nor the immune complex could be detected in the circulation of lactating rats or rats bearing the nonmetastatic mammary tumor, MT-100. Thus, it appears that the spontaneously metastasizing tumor, TMT-100, considered previously to be nonimmunogenic or weakly immunogenic by conventional tests, does in fact elicit an apparently ineffective humoral response as manifested by the formation of an immune complex containing MTA.
Developmental Exposure to Estrogen Alters Differentiation and Epigenetic Programming in a Human Fetal Prostate Xenograft Model

Prostate cancer is the most frequent non-cutaneous malignancy in men. There is strong evidence in rodents that neonatal estrogen exposure plays a role in the development of this disease. However, there is little information regarding the effects of estrogen in human fetal prostate tissue. This study explored early life estrogen exposure, with and without a secondary estrogen and testosterone treatment in a human fetal prostate xenograft model. Histopathological lesions, proliferation, and serum hormone levels were evaluated at 7, 30, 90, and 200-day time-points after xenografting. The expression of 40 key genes involved in prostatic glandular and stromal growth, cell-cycle progression, apoptosis, hormone receptors and tumor suppressors was evaluated using a custom PCR array. Epigenome-wide analysis of DNA methylation was performed on whole tissue, and laser capture-microdissection (LCM) isolated epithelial and stromal compartments of 200-day prostate xenografts. Combined initial plus secondary estrogenic exposures had the most severe tissue changes as revealed by the presence of hyperplastic glands at day 200. Gene expression changes corresponded with the cellular events in the KEGG prostate cancer pathway, indicating that initial plus secondary exposure to estrogen altered the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, ultimately resulting in apoptosis inhibition and an increase in cell cycle progression. DNA methylation revealed that differentially methylated CpG sites significantly predominate in the stromal compartment as a result of estrogen-treatment, thereby providing new targets for future investigation. By using human fetal prostate tissue and eliminating the need for species extrapolation, this study provides novel insights into the gene expression and epigenetic effects related to prostate carcinogenesis following early life estrogen exposure.
Survivable load sharing protocals: a simulation study

The development of robust, survivable wireless access networks requires that the performance of network architectures and protocols be studied under normal as well as faulty conditions where consideration is given to faults occurring within the network as well as within the physical environment. User location, mobility, and usage patterns and the quality of the received radio signal are impacted by terrain, man-made structures, population distribution, and the existing transportation system. The work presented herein has two thrusts. One, we propose the use of overlapping coverage areas and dynamic load balancing as a means to increase network survivability by providing mobiles with multiple access points to the fixed infrastructure. Two, we describe our simulation approach to survivability analysis which combines empirical spatial information, network models, and fault models for more realistic analysis of real service areas. We use our simulation approach to compare the survivability of our load balancing protocols to a reference scheme within two diverse geographic regions. We view survivability as a cost-performance tradeoff using handover activity as a cost metric and blocking probabilities as performance metrics. Our results illustrate this tradeoff for the protocols studied and demonstrate the extent to which the physical environment and faults therein affect the conclusions that are drawn.
Modification of surface structures and roughening phase transition in Pb(110) by impurities

Using high-resolution low-energy electron diffraction, we show that the thermal roughening transition of a clean unreconstructed Pb(110) surface can be altered by impurities in the surface. The flat surface becomes a two-level regular terrace structure (1D) along the close-packed direction above 350 K with terraces modeled by a cut-off geometric distribution. The original Kosterlitz-Thouless roughening transition at 415 K for the clean surface was delayed until 480 K and the transition was irreversible due to the change in the amount of impurities in the surface.
In vitro propagation of Agave arizonica Gentry & Weber

Agave arizonica Gentry & Weber, an extremely rare and endangered species native to Arizona, was successfully propagated in vitro using modified Murashige and Skoog media. Adventitious shoots developed from callus which formed on bulbil explants grown in a medium supplemented with 1.4 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. These shoots proliferated by subculture in media supplemented with 44.4 μM 6-benzylaminopurine, and either 0.5 or 5.4 μM naphthaleneacetic acid. Rooting occurred on shoots transferred to a growth regulator free medium. Rooted plants transferred to potting soil could be established under greenhouse conditions following gradual acclimatization indoors.
Dilution control in gas-tungsten-arc welds involving superaustenitic stainless steels and nickel-based alloys

Fusion welds were prepared between a superaustenitic stainless steel, (the AL-6XN alloy) and two Ni-based filler metals (IN625 and IN622) using the gas-tungsten-arc welding (GTAW) process. Fusionzone compositions over the full range of dilution levels (0 to 100 pct) were produced by varying the independent welding parameters of arc power and volumetric filler-metal feed rate. Microstructural characterization of the welds was conducted via light optical microscopy, with quantitative chemical information obtained through electron-probe microanalysis (EPMA). The dilution level of each weld was determined from the EPMA data as well as through geometric measurements of the weld cross-sectional areas. The dilution level was observed to decrease with increasing filler-metal feed rate and decreasing arc power. These effects are quantitatively interpreted based on a previously proposed processing model. The model is used to demonstrate that, in terms of welding parameters, the dilution level can be correlated exclusively to the ratio of the volumetric filler-metal feed rate (V fm) to arc power (VI), i.e., the individual values of V fm and VI are not important in controlling the dilution and resultant weld-metal composition. Good agreement is obtained between experimental and calculated dilution values using the model. It is also demonstrated that the melting enthalpies of the filler metal and substrate have only a minor influence on dilution at dilution levels in the range from 40 to 100 pct. This knowledge facilitates estimates of dilution levels in this range when the substrate and fillermetal thermal properties are not accurately known. The results presented from this study provide guidelines for controlling the weld-metal composition in these fusion-zone combinations.
Response to Reisine & Douglass: psychosocial and behavioral issues in early childhood caries

The behaviors that are fundamental in early childhood caries are those that initiate and maintain the conditions for transmission of the cariogenic bacteria and block prevention of the disease in the presence of an unfavorable diet. These behaviors have not been the focus of interdisciplinary research involving clinicians, microbiologists, pharmacologists, and behavioral scientists. The current "health promotion product" is not selling. The problem is the "product", not the potential buyer. Evidence suggests that positive interactions with the dental care system do lead to mothers taking preventive steps. However, dentist's attitudes, knowledge, skills and experience with babies and toddlers are deficient. Primary prevention of early childhood caries will fail unless it begins in the prenatal period and addresses the health of both mother and child.
Structural barriers to preventing and responding to sexual assaults: Distinctions between community- and campus-based advocates

Research shows that sexual assault advocates confront barriers in their efforts to prevent and respond to sexual assault. Research also highlights distinct collaboration issues related to the advocates' constituencies or victim populations. In particular, past studies show that collaboration issues arise differently for community-based versus campus-based sexual assault advocates. Building on past research, this study assesses whether structural barriers are also different for community- and campus-based advocates. Focus groups were conducted with 49 sexual assault advocates in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Results show that structural barriers differ between community- and campus-based advocates. The authors discuss the implications of the different barriers, recommendations for addressing them and suggestions for future research.
Analysis of Reciprocal Creatinine Plots in Renal Failure

The linearity that has frequently been observed when the reciprocal of the serum creatinine is plotted against time of follow-up has been used to predict the future course of patients with renal disease. In the present study, we have analyzed reciprocal creatinine plots with a computer program that identifies breakpoints in a linear plot and calculates the statistical significance of the fit provided by two intersecting lines instead of a single straight line. When applied to cases of chronic renal failure, the program revealed breakpoints that were not temporally related to recognized major clinical events. The computer program may prove useful for evaluating the validity of data derived from clinical trials of therapies to moderate the course of declining kidney function.
Dissemination of Information from Home Economics Research

The dissemination of home economics research results is vital for the transfer of knowledge from the laboratory or survey to home economics practitioners. The delivery of home economics research results follows the conceptual framework of some communication theories. A foundation for dissemination of knowledge from home economics research was made through Federal legislation. Tradition ally, scholarly publications and bulletins have been used for the transmission of home economics research results. New communication technologies offer future possibilities of instant and accessible transmission of research findings for home economists. Popular media co-authored by journalists and home economics professionals is another method of dissemination of research findings. For future dissemination of research findings, recommendations are made to: (1) study the effectiveness of methods of dissemination of results, (2) consider the popular media for dissemination of results, (3) plan for dissemination of results at the inception of the project, (4) define a network for dissemination of results in the research proposal, and (5) follow effective communication models for the dis semination of results.
Magnetic influence on portable instruments

The performance of electric instruments in magnetic fields has been studied as related to portable voltmeters, ammeters, and wattmeters and, a brief survey of certain items of laboratory equipment whose external fields might affect nearby instruments has been made. The influence of magnetic fields on two common types of portable instruments is shown in Figures 1 and 2. The instrument under test was placed in a given magnetic field whose direction was adjusted to produce maximum effect. When a-c fields were used, their phase angles also had to be adjusted. Test instrument readings were held constant by means of a reference instrument so located as to be unaffected by the magnetic field. Readings taken were repeated with the field reversed in direction. Half the difference between the two readings, expressed as a percentage of full-scale deflection, was taken as the influence of the field. Manufacturer's catalogue statement of accuracy, and the approximate length of the scale are shown in the curves to indicate the general instrument quality. It is emphasized that accuracy specified by the manufacturer does not cover such conditions as the presence of magnetic fields.
Temperature dependence of kinetic interactions between progesterone and the uterine cytoplasmic receptor.

Abstract The temperature dependence of the rates of dissociation and association for progesterone-receptor interactions was measured over the temperature range of 0–20°C. The dissociation process is biphasic indicating that either two forms of receptor are present or that the binding of progesterone to the receptor is a concatenated reaction. The enthalpy of activation for the dissociation of progesterone from the receptor is about 26–28 kcal/mol and the entropic energy of activation is about −5 kcal/mol. The enthalpy of activation for the association of these molecules is about 3 kcal/mol and the entropic energy of activation is about 6 kcal/mol. These data are consistent with a model of progesterone binding to the receptor that includes hydrogen bonds between each of the two ketone groups and hydrogen donors on the receptor protein and involves van der Waals' interactions, due to the close proximity of the receptor binding site to a large fraction of the progesterone surface.
Numerical study of wall effects on buoyant gas-bubble rise in a liquid-filled finite cylinder

The wall effects on the axisymmetric rise and deformation of an initially spherical gas bubble released from rest in a liquid-filled, finite circular cylinder are numerically investigated. The bulk and gas phases are considered incompressible and immiscible. The bubble motion and deformation are characterized by the Morton number (Mo), E\"otv\"os number (Eo), Reynolds number (Re), Weber number (We), density ratio, viscosity ratio, the ratios of the cylinder height and the cylinder radius to the diameter of the initially spherical bubble (${H}^{*}=H∕{d}_{0}$, ${R}^{*}=R∕{d}_{0}$). Bubble rise in liquids described by Eo and Mo combinations ranging from (1,0.01) to (277.5,0.092), as appropriate to various terminal state Reynolds numbers $({\mathrm{Re}}_{T})$ and shapes have been studied. The range of terminal state Reynolds numbers includes $0.02l{\mathrm{Re}}_{T}l70$. Bubble shapes at terminal states vary from spherical to intermediate spherical-cap--skirted. The numerical procedure employs a front tracking finite difference method coupled with a level contour reconstruction of the front. This procedure ensures a smooth distribution of the front points and conserves the bubble volume. For the wide range of Eo and Mo examined, bubble motion in cylinders of height ${H}^{*}=8$ and ${R}^{*}\ensuremath{\ge}3$, is noted to correspond to the rise in an infinite medium, both in terms of Reynolds number and shape at terminal state. In a thin cylindrical vessel (small ${R}^{*}$), the motion of the bubble is retarded due to increased total drag and the bubble achieves terminal conditions within a short distance from release. The wake effects on bubble rise are reduced, and elongated bubbles may occur at appropriate conditions. For a fixed volume of the bubble, increasing the cylinder radius may result in the formation of well-defined rear recirculatory wakes that are associated with lateral bulging and skirt formation. The paper includes figures of bubble shape regimes for various values of ${R}^{*}$, Eo, Mo, and ${\mathrm{Re}}_{T}$. Our predictions agree with existing results reported in the literature.
External Beam Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer Patients on Anticoagulation Therapy: How Significant is the Bleeding Toxicity?

Purpose To characterize the bleeding toxicity associated with external beam radiotherapy for prostate cancer patients receiving anticoagulation (AC) therapy. Methods and Materials The study cohort consisted of 568 patients with adenocarcinoma of the prostate who were treated with definitive external beam radiotherapy. Of these men, 79 were receiving AC therapy with either warfarin or clopidogrel. All patients were treated with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy or intensity-modulated radiotherapy. Bleeding complications were recorded during treatment and subsequent follow-up visits. Results With a median follow-up of 48 months, the 4-year actuarial risk of Grade 3 or worse bleeding toxicity was 15.5% for those receiving AC therapy compared with 3.6% among those not receiving AC ( p p p = .0408), intensity-modulated radiotherapy ( p = 0.0136), and previous transurethral resection of the prostate ( p = .0001) were associated with Grade 2 or worse bleeding toxicity. Androgen deprivation therapy was protective against bleeding, with borderline significance ( p = 0.0599). Dose–volume histogram analysis revealed that Grade 3 or worse bleeding was minimized if the percentage of the rectum receiving ≥70 Gy was Conclusion Patients taking AC therapy have a substantial risk of bleeding toxicity from external beam radiotherapy. In this setting, dose escalation or intensity-modulated radiotherapy should be used judiciously. With adherence to strict dose–volume histogram criteria and minimizing hotspots, the risk of severe bleeding might be reduced.
Are commercial bank lending propensities useful in understanding small firm finance

We consider recent criticism by Berger et al. (J Bank Finance 31:11–33, 2007) of the use of commercial bank lending propensities (e.g., small business loans/total assets) as research tools. We use 2SLS cross sectional regressions with bank fixed effects to examine the relationship between small business lending and bank size. Our results indicate that the propensity to lend to small businesses declines as bank size increases, and the growth in small business lending does not keep pace with the growth in bank size. An increase in bank asset size from $1 billion to $100 billion reduces the ratio of small business loans to total loans and leases by 28 percentage points. Contrary to Berger and Black (2007) we find that most small business loans are made by small banks. For 1993 to 2006 as a whole, small banks (those under $1 billion) accounted for only 14.1% of total deposits and 9.7% of total banking assets, but they accounted for 28.4% of small business loans outstanding. This is consistent with the pattern shown by lending propensities. We conclude that these propensities remain very useful tools in research on small firm finance.
Say My Name

In a letter to Langston Hughes dated 5 December 1928, Harlem Renaissance writer and personality Wallace Thurman begins with an admittedly "informal salutation." "Dear Lank-yyank-yank," he writes (115). Lank-y-yank-yank? Any new piece of information about the notoriously private and unreadable Hughes is always welcome, and one wonders if Thurman's pet name for the famous poet offers some sort of a clue. What could possibly earn a person named Langston the quasi-obscene sobriquet of Lank-yyank-yank? What would such a name imply? What activities might it suggest? Apart from a letter to Alain Locke in which Hughes mentions his fondness for Walt Whitman's Calamus poems (Rampersad 69), this seems as close as we're likely to get to any hint of the inscrutable Hughes's sex life. As Thurman tells Hughes in another letter, anticipating our own project of looking for Langston, "You are in the final analysis the most consarned and diabolical creature, to say nothing of being either the most egregiously simple or excessively complex, person I know. Pee on you!!" (122) We now know about Hughes's rather unfortunate nicknameand Thurman's facility with the pithy put-down-through the welcome publication of The Collected Writings of Wallace Thurman: A Harlem Renaissance Reader, edited by Amritjit Singh and Daniel M. Scott III. Along with Gay Rebel of the Harlem Renaissance: Selections from the Work of Richard Bruce Nugent, published in 2002, this collection of Thurman's writings forms part of a renewed interest in heretofore "minor" figures in the Harlem Renaissance, and both offer the scholarly treasure troves of easy and expansive access to both published and unpublished materials. They also form part of a burgeoning scholarly interest in one particular aspect of 1920s Harlem: its location as the birthing ground of one of the country's earliest and most diverse queer cultures. Indeed, for queer black studies, Harlem in the 1920s has become both a central possibility and a central problematic. On the one hand, the Harlem Renaissance provides an ideal opportunity to witness and interrogate the sometimes dizzying interaction of race and sexuality in the early part of the twentieth century. At the same time, however, scholars are struggling
Bone mineral density: measuring up

The second addition of Bone Densitometry in Clinical Practice is a welcome update of a key reference for clinicians who rely on bone densitometry for the evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis. Over the past 20 years the author has witnessed the evolution of densitometry from a research tool to an important, although occasionally problematic, clinical test.
Behavioural genetics: evolutionary fingerprint of the 'invisible hand'.

A recent study of the foraging gene in Drosophila illustrates a long-standing economic maxim that competition favors rare strategies. Two foraging alleles, rovers and sitters, each have higher fitness when rare — but only when competition is strong.
Use of IPsec by manned space missions

Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) can provide a highly interoperable and cost effective part of securing network communications with manned spacecraft, but some shortcomings of the protocol and its implementations must be addressed in order to apply this technology in manned spacecraft. The most notable challenges are in the areas of IPsec device management, security certification (e.g., FIPS 140-2 [1]), manned space qualification, overhead, and security vulnerabilities. This paper describes challenges facing the use of IPsec in space and offers recommendations for overcoming those challenges.
Review of chatter in micro and macro cutting operations machining biomaterials

Chatter presents one of the main problems in quality of machined surfaces limiting tool life, productivity and tolerances. Chatter in milling and turning operations has been extensively analysed however, drilling operations have been neglected due to the complexity of drilling tools and problems that develop in the modelling of the tool. In this paper, an overview of chatter vibrations and chatter suppression in drilling has been presented. In addition, the problem of chatter analysis and suppression in micromachining processes has been investigated. The differences in macro and micro scale problems have been addressed giving an overview of the current research directions and future work for both areas.
On the localization of shearing deformations in tungsten heavy alloys

Abstract This paper presents the results of an investigation into the dynamic shearing deformations of a WNiFe heavy alloy containing 91% W and with the Ni and Fe in a 7:3 ratio. The technique used to develop the dynamic shearing deformations is the torsional Kolsky bar, which generates shear rates as high as 10 3 s −1 for times of several hundred μs. Adiabatic shear localization has been observed in the high-rate shearing tests; relatively narrow shear bands are formed, followed immediately by catastrophic fracture. The deformed microstructures are examined using scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and quantitative image analysis of the micrographs. Examination of the deformed microstructures supplies new insight into the mechanisms through which large dynamic shearing deformations occur in this tungsten heavy alloy.
Glucagon-like peptide 2 increases efficacy of distraction enterogenesis

Abstract Background Application of distractive forces to small bowel induces intestinal growth, or enterogenesis. This emerging area of research may provide treatment for short bowel syndrome. Glucagon-like peptide 2(GLP-2) has also been reported to induce small bowel growth after bowel resection. We hypothesized that exogenous GLP-2 will result in enhanced distraction-induced enterogenesis. Methods Distraction-induced model was performed in 10-wk-old C57BL/6 mice using osmotic forces with high molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG)-stretch. Four groups were studied: Control group (PEG-/GLP-2–); PEG-stretch (PEG+/GLP-2–); GLP-2 control (PEG-/GLP-2+); and GLP-2 stretch (PEG+/GLP-2+). GLP-2 was given via subcutaneous osmotic pump over the 5 d of experiment. Morphology was measured by histomicrography. Epithelial cell (EC) proliferation was measured with proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunofluorescent staining. Total intestinal growth and blood vessel volume was assessed with Micro computed tomography volumetry. Vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor 1 and 2, and platelet-derived growth factor were measured by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results EC proliferation increased significantly in all groups compared with controls, but was greatest in the GLP-2 stretch group. Diameter and length significantly increased in the PEG-stretch and GLP-2 stretch groups. Moreover, there was statistically greater diameter, crypt depth and EC proliferation in the GLP-2 stretch versus PEG-stretch groups. GLP-2 stretch vessel volume was greater than all other groups and was significantly increased compared with controls. The relative expression of platelet-derived growth factor increased significantly in the PEG-stretch group versus the Control group. Conclusions GLP-2 had an additive effect on EC proliferation, tissue growth, histomorphology, and vascularization. We also demonstrated a unique action of GLP-2, the enhancement of intestinal vascularization. The combination of enterogenesis and GLP-2 may yield an improved approach to treat short bowel syndrome.
Purification and Characterization of an α-Haloketone-resistant Formate Dehydrogenase from Thiobacillus sp. Strain KNK65MA, and Cloning of the Gene

Thiobacillus sp. strain KNK65MA, which produced an NAD-dependent formate dehydrogenase (FDH) highly resistant to alpha-haloketones, was newly isolated, i.e., the enzyme showed no loss of activity after a 5-h incubation with alpha-haloketones, such as ethyl 4-chloro-3-oxobutanoate. The enzyme was also resistant to SH reagents. The enzyme, purified to homogeneity, was a dimer composed of identical subunits. The specific activity was 7.6 u/mg, and the apparent Km values for formate and NAD+ were 1.6 and 0.048 mM, respectively. The cloned gene of FDH contained one open reading frame (ORF) of 1206 base pairs, predicted to encode a polypeptide of 401 amino acids, with a calculated molecular weight of 44,021; this gene was highly expressed in E. coli cells. The deduced amino acid sequence of this FDH had high identity to other bacterial FDHs.
Inverted Regions in the Curve of Photodestruction Quantum Yield versus Photon Energy

The curve of photodestruction quantum yield versus photon energy for tryptophan and phycocyanin has an inverted region where the quantum yield decreases as the absorbed photon energy increases. A formula is proposed to predict the existence of inverted regions in photochemical reactions. This formula is used to describe the inverted behavior of the quantum yield of photodissociation for tryptophan and phycocyanin. The model also describes the quantum yields for the photodissociation of H2O and O3.
Nephrologists and interventional nephrology

More than two decades ago, nephrologists laid the foundation of what is now known as interventional nephrology. Because of their unique clinical perspective on dialysis access and better understanding of the intricacies of renal replacement therapy, nephrologists are ideally suited for this activity. Hemodialysis access is a major area that contributes directly to morbidity and mortality of dialysis patients. Consequently, a major portion of this new specialty has focused on hemodialysis access. Vascular access interventions commonly employed by nephrologists include venous and arterial angioplasty, thrombectomy procedures, intravascular coil and stent insertion, and tunneled hemodialysis catheter-related procedures. The performance of these procedures by nephrologists themselves has minimized treatment delays, decreased hospitalizations and costs, and increased patient convenience. Today, many private as well as academic medical centers have embraced this approach. The American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology has made tremendous contributions in imparting validity and fostering this specialty in the United States. Very recently, collaboration with interventional radiology and cardiology colleagues has fur-ther solidified the status of interventional nephrology. This article provides a description of the vascular-access procedures performed by interventional nephrologists and presents a summary of the current status of interventional nephrology.
Synthesis and characterization of random hydrophilic/hydrophobic copolymers of styrene and D-lactose-O-vinylbenzylhydroxime

D-Lactose-O-(vinylbenzyl)oxime (LVO), prepared from α-D-lactose and [O-(vinylbenzyl)oxy]amine (1) was copolymerized with styrene (ST) in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)-toluene (1 : 1, v/v) at 65°C using 2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as a free radical initiator. The polymerization was rapid when using AIBN as the initiator. The resultant copolymers were characterized by elemental analyses, infrared, viscometry, TGA, DSC, and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The poly(ST-co-LVO) had an intrinsic viscosity in the range of 0.11–0.51 dL/g in DMSO at 30°C. The molecular weight was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and the molecular weight of the resulting polymers ranged from 2.11 × 104 to 6.53 × 107 with low polydispersities. The solubility of the copolymers with different monomer compositions in solvents of varied polarities was also studied. Incorporation of up to 65% (mol %) of lactose-based monomer onto polystyrene backbone led to a water-soluble polymer. Thermal behavior of the synthesized copolymers was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and correlated very well with the polymer composition. Introduction of a pendant disaccharide compromised the thermal stability of the copolymer. The synthetic approach described in this report provides a route to prepare a novel disaccharide surfactant polymer with well-defined structures and hydrophilic/hydrophobic balances, by adjusting feed ratio of the lactose-based monomer (1) to styrene. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 36: 2971–2978, 1998
Assembly of local communities: consequences of an optimal body size for the organization of competitively structured communities☆

Abstract Much empirical evidence suggests that there is an optimal body size for mammals and that this optimum is in the vicinity of 100 g. This presumably reflects an underlying fitness function that is greatest at this mass. Here, I combine such a fitness function with an equilibrium model of competitive character displacement to assess the potential influence of a globally optimal body size in structuring local ecological communities. The model accurately predicts the range of body sizes and the average difference in size for species in communities of varying species richness. The model also predicts a uniform spacing of body sizes, rather than the gaps and clumps in the sizes of coexisting species observed in real communities. Alternative explanations for this phenomenon are discussed. The allometric relationships that result in a body size optimum subsume a large number of characteristics associated with the physiological, behavioral, demographic, and evolutionary dynamics of the species. Further integration of the underlying dynamics (e.g. individual energetics) of these relationships into all hierarchical levels of ecology will have to incorporate multiple interactive sites, spatial heterogeneity, and phylogenetic structure, but it has the potential to provide important discoveries into the means by which natural selection operates.
Conflict strategies and resolutions: Peer conflict in an integrated early childhood classroom☆

The purpose of this study was to examine and describe the peer conflicts of nine typically developing children and eight children with disabilities in an integrated preschool. A number of conflict constructs were examined including goals, oppositions, strategies, and outcomes. As part of a comprehensive ethnography of the classroom, data were collected through the use of field notes and videotaping. These data were gathered to develop categories surrounding the conflicts that emerged in the integrated classroom. Results indicated that: (a) children with disabilities were in more conflicts than typically developing children, (b) conflicts were more likely to occur between children with disabilities than between typically developing children, (c) the majority of conflicts involved a teacher intervention, and (d) the most frequent outcomes resulted in a win-lose situation where children separated. The findings demonstrate the need for active teacher involvement when children with disabilities participate in conflicts in integrated early childhood classrooms.
The functional relationships between BBS and MKS and their role in regulating trafficking of proteins in the primary cilium

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS )a nd Meckel-Gruber syndrome (MKS) are genetic disorders caused by disruption of primary cilia. The BBS and MKS proteins are found in two distinct protein complexes but the functional relationships between these two complexes are not clear. Here we analyze double mutant mouse embryos to define these relationships. Bbs4;Mks1 double mutant embryos show a stronger phenotype than either single mutant, with completely penetrant micropthalmia and polydactyly, loss of ventral neural cell types, and a reduced number of short bulbous primary cilia. This additive phenotype suggests that BBS and MKS function in parallel pathways. We detected accumulation of Smo and abnormal Gli2 localization in Bbs4;Mks1 double mutant cilia, suggesting that the double mutants have a defect in retrograde trafficking. To define a role of BBS4 or MKS1 in ciliary trafficking, we have generated Bbs4 or Mks1 mice that carry mutations in the IFT machinery. Absence of BBS4 did not affect the phenotype of a weak IFT-B mutant or of embryos that lack the retrograde dynein motor, whereas the Mks1 phenotype was stronger when either IFT-B or dynein were mutant. This implies that BBS works together with IFT to regulate ciliary trafficking whereas MKS1 has a parallel role in ciliary function. Together these data suggest that BBS and MKS both have roles in regulating movement of Hh components in the cilium however the way in which they do this is distinct from each other.