cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PFKFB3-dependent glucose metabolism regulates 3T3-L1 adipocyte development.

Proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes, and other cell types, is accompanied by an increase in glucose uptake. Previous work showed that a pulse of high glucose was required during the first 3 days of differentiation in vitro, but was not required after that. The specific glucose metabolism pathways required for adipocyte differentiation are unknown. Herein, we used 3T3-L1 adipocytes as a model system to study glucose metabolism and expansion of the adipocyte metabolome during the first 3 days of differentiation. Our primary outcome measures were GLUT4 and adiponectin, key proteins associated with healthy adipocytes. Using complete media with 0 or 5 mM glucose, we distinguished between developmental features that were dependent on the differentiation cocktail of dexamethasone, insulin, and isobutylmethylxanthine alone or the cocktail plus glucose. Cocktail alone was sufficient to activate the capacity for 2-deoxglucose uptake and glycolysis, but was unable to support the expression of GLUT4 and adiponectin in mature adipocytes. In contrast, 5 mM glucose in the media promoted a transient increase in glucose uptake and glycolysis as well as a significant expansion of the adipocyte metabolome and proteome. Using genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we found that the positive effects of 5 mM glucose on adipocyte differentiation were specifically due to increased expression of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), a key regulator of glycolysis and the ancillary glucose metabolic pathways. Our data reveal a critical role for PFKFB3 activity in regulating the cellular metabolic remodeling required for adipocyte differentiation and maturation.
Novel strategies for the development of hand, foot, and mouth disease vaccines and antiviral therapies

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) poses a great threat to young children in the Asia-Pacific region. HFMD is usually caused by enterovirus A, and infection with enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is parti...
Adjusting Air-Assistance and Nozzle style for optimized Airblast Sprayer Use in Eastern Washington Vineyards

Summary Goals: There are many ways to optimize an airblast sprayer for use in vineyards. Three techniques growers use include: 1) changing nozzle type, 2) reconfiguring or adjusting the nozzles, and 3) adjusting the air-assistance to the droplets during an application. This study evaluated the effects of nozzle type and air-assistance use in airblast sprayers on canopy spray deposition and drift in a Washington wine grape vineyard that is trained to a modified vertical shoot positioning system. Key Findings: The one-piece nozzle with air assistance showed consistently high total collected canopy deposition regardless of time of season (early or mid-season). However, drift was reduced when air-assistance was not used. The air induction nozzle had the greatest total collected canopy deposition when using air-assistance during the early season, but had the greatest deposition mid-season without using air-assistance. Drift was reduced when air assistance was not used. Early in the growing season, maximum spray deposition in the fruiting zone of the canopy was achieved using air induction nozzles with air-assistance. However, if one adopted the use of air induction nozzle, without air, that would optimize fruiting zone spray deposition, while reducing captured aerial drift. Mid-growing season, maximum fruiting zone spray deposition without high drift was achieved using air induction nozzles without air-assistance. Impact and Significance: An airblast sprayer optimized through changes in nozzle or use of air-assistance can improve spray deposition into the canopy while minimizing drift. Growers can compare and adopt these drift-reduction techniques, i.e., using air induction nozzles and / or turning air-assistance off, to determine which are best suited for their farming practices. Such approach will allow better optimization of the sprayer for their vineyard spray application needs as well as reduce the possible negative impacts associated with off-target chemical deposition on humans and the environment.
Examining the Digital Labor of Mental Health Communication on Social Media

Mental health messaging on social media can increase awareness of the stigma surrounding mental illnesses while also creating powerful communities of support. Professionals within nonprofits work regularly with social media, yet the types of digital labor involved in social media communication practices are understudied. This poster discusses preliminary results from two qualitative case studies. The case studies examine professionals working within a mental health advocacy nonprofit as they engage in the digital labor of mental health communication design. Overall, results demonstrate that while funding may influence the content and work behind mental health messaging in different ways, professionals in this context are skilled in employing affective labor to show care for social media audiences.
A STUDY OF THE ACTIVITIES AND ROLES OF PUBLIC TRANSIT BOARDS

This study examines public transit boards of directors' role performance, prescribed activities that facilitate role performance, relationships between the roles and prescribed activities, and characteristics of boards and their members that affect members' involvement in board activities. It surveys public transit boards and analyzes the resulting data, using factor analysis, structural, and stepwise regression equations. The study finds that transit boards' role performance is enhanced by board members' involvement in contextual, analytical, strategic, interpersonal, and political activities, but not by involvement in board educational activities. Additionally, it finds positive relationships between many of the board member characteristics examined and most of the prescribed board activities. Exceptions to these positive relationships are also revealed. Negative relationships exist between the level of formal education of board members and such activities as setting aside time to learn about the organization and discussing future directions of the organization with other board members. Appointment of board members by state governments exerts a negative effect on board members' attentiveness to decision-making processes, and the use of long-range plan priorities in making strategic decisions. Service on other boards negatively affects members' involvement in transit board-related interpersonal activities.
A Cause of Action for Option Traders Against Insider Option Traders

A recent Note in this Review argued that a cause of action should be available under rule Iob-51 for traders of options on corporate stock against insider traders of options on the same stock.2 Surprisingly, the Note ignored the fact that Congress has already approved such an action in section 20(d) of the Insider Trading Sanctions Act of I984.3 The Note acknowledged that "section 20(d) . . . ma[de] insider trading or tipping in stock options unlawful to the same extent as trading or tipping in the underlying security," but the author erroneously concluded that "[t]his provision applies only to SEC enforcement suits."4 The Note's restrictive interpretation is plainly wrong. Section 2o(d) provides:
The Earth'S Free Oscillations and the Differential Rotation of the Inner Core

Differential rotation of the inner core has been inferred by several body-wave studies with most agreeing that a superrotation may exist with a rate between 0.2◦ and 3◦ per year. The wide range of inferred rotation rate is caused by the sensitivity of such studies to local complexities in structure which have been demonstrated to exist. Freeoscillation “splitting functions” are insensitive to local structure and are therefore better candidates for estimating differential IC rotation more accurately. We use a recently developed method for analyzing free oscillations which is insensitive to earthquake source, location and mechanism to constrain this differential rotation. In a prior study, we found that inner core differential rotation has been essentially zero over the last 20 years. We revisit this issue, including additional earthquakes and modes in our analysis. Our best estimate is a barely significant superrotation of 0.13±0.11◦/yr, which is still consistent with the idea that the inner core is gravitationally locked to the mantle.
Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Artery Treatment by Aorto-Left Coronary Saphenous Vein Bypass

Abstract Definitive surgical therapy is available for the adult or post-infantile form of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk. Left coronary artery ligation has proved successful because of intercoronary anastomoses; however, more desirable treatment consists of establishing a 2-coronary arterial system, if possible by aorto-left coronary bypass. A 34 year old patient is described in whom aorto-left coronary artery continuity was established using an autogenous saphenous vein bypass graft.
Palatopharyngoplasty with bilateral buccal mucosal graft repair to alleviate oropharyngeal stenosis.

Abstract Oropharyngeal stenosis is rare, but known complication from tonsillectomy procedure. A 15-year-old female presented with refractory dyspnea, mild obstructive sleep apnea, and dysphagia. She underwent tonsillectomy 3 years prior. Severe cicatricial oropharyngeal scar involving soft palate, anterior tonsillar pillars, and base of tongue, resulted in 1-cm2 airway. Case report describing lysis of severe palatopharyngeal scar bands from tonsillectomy misadventure with immediate buccal mucosal grafts to repair resultant oropharyngeal defects. Patient no longer complains of difficulty breathing or dysphagia.
The Politics of Difference: Ethnic Premises in a World of Power

The Politics of Difference: Ethnic Premises in. World of Power. Edwin N. Wilmsen and Patrick McAllister. eds. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1996. 210 pp.
Review: Gillian Rose (2001). Visual Methodologies: An Introduction to the Interpretation of Visual Materials

Dieses fesselnde, wenn auch etwas schwierig zu lesende Buch reflektiert, dass unsere Kultur durch zahlreiche visuelle Reprasentationen verstehbar wird, und dass wir Methodologien brauchen, um den Uberfluss an visuellen Stimuli in unserer Umwelt zu interpretieren. ROSE zeigt, dass es nicht nur einen einzigen Weg der Interpretation visueller Reprasentationen gibt, sondern es kann auf eine Vielfalt an Ansatzen zuruckgegriffen werden. Genauer behandelt ROSE die Semiotik, die Psychoanalyse, die Diskursanalyse und die Inhaltsanalyse. Drei Fragen stehen im Zentrum ihrer Arbeit: Warum ist es wichtig, visuelle Reprasentationen zu beachten? Warum ist es wichtig, diesen Reprasentationen gegenuber kritisch zu sein? Und warum ist es wichtig, diese Kritik zu reflektieren? Vor dem Hintergrund dieser Fragen liefert ROSE mit ihrem Buch einen umfassenden Uberblick uber visuelle Methodologien und fuhrt in die Geschichte eines entstehenden Forschungsfeldes ein. URN: urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs0204301
Co-expression of skeletal and cardiac troponin T decreases mouse cardiac function.

In contrast to skeletal muscles that simultaneously express multiple troponin T (TnT) isoforms, normal adult human cardiac muscle contains a single isoform of cardiac TnT. To understand the signifi...
National and Regional Population Trends in Azerbaijan

An American specialist on urbanization and population dynamics in the countries of the former Soviet Union examines changes in Azerbaijan's population revealed by analysis of that country's first post-Soviet (1999) census and official 2002 population estimates. Particular attention is devoted to the ongoing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the contested territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, in terms of its effects on total population size (mortality and refugee flows into and out of the country) and the internal distribution of population within the country (involuntary migration of internally displaced persons). Journal of Economic Literature, Classification Numbers: J11, O18, R23. 2 figures, 4 tables, 44 references.
The role of inefficient charge modulations in limiting the current-gain cutoff frequency of the MODFET

A model is presented that clarifies the role of inefficient charge modulation in limiting the current-gain cutoff frequency (f/sub T/) of conventional GaAs/AlGaAs and pseudomorphic InGaAs/AlGaAs MODFETs. Both modulation of parasitic charge in the electron-supplying layer and departure from the saturated velocity mode of operation are seen to reduce the efficiency with which the gate controls the drain current. Consequently, f/sub T/ and the apparent electron velocity are reduced by a factor called the modulating efficiency. Using this model, the superior performance of the pseudomorphic MODFET is explained by its ability to achieve higher sheet densities before modulating parasitic charge in the AlGaAs layer. These results indicate that efficient modulation of the current-producing charge is as important as a high electron velocity. >
Mechanism of presqualene pyrophosphate-squalene biosynthesis II. Synthesis of bifarnesol

Abstract A convenient synthesis of the racemate of bifarnesol (4), a proposed biochemical precursor of presqualene pyrophosphate and squalene, is described.
Measuring US sectoral shocks in the world input–output network

I measure the importance of sectoral shocks in US aggregate output by using the World Input–Output Table (WIOT). The WIOT allows me to correct potential sub-graph bias in previous literature, caused by using only the US industrial production input–output table. I report results from three closely related models to show how sensitive the analyses are to different specifications. The estimates vary from 10% to 45%.
Uncoupling keratocyte loss of corneal crystallin from markers of fibrotic repair.

PURPOSE Corneal crystallins are lost from resident cells of the corneal stroma during wound repair, and this is associated with a loss of cell transparency. The goal of this study was to identify factors inducing loss of the corneal crystallin transketolase (TKT). METHODS A cell culture model of freshly isolated rabbit corneal keratocytes was used. Fibrotic markers included cell proliferation, adoption of a "fibroblastic" spindle-shaped morphology associated with cytoskeletal rearrangement, loss of TKT, and expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-sm actin), a marker for the myofibroblast. RESULTS When freshly isolated keratocytes were cultured in the continuous presence of 10% calf serum, the high level of intracellular TKT protein was reduced dramatically within 24 to 48 hours. In contrast, TKT protein was retained in cells maintained in the absence of serum. When cells were prevented from proliferating by exposure to serum for <24 hours or by continuously exposing to serum at a contact-inhibiting plating density, TKT loss was inhibited. TKT loss was induced by treatment of serum-free cultures with the serum cytokines platelet-derived growth factor or basic fibroblast growth factor, both of which also stimulated keratocyte proliferation, although not other changes associated with fibrosis. However, TKT loss was not induced by treatment of serum-free cultures with a third serum cytokine, transforming growth factor- (TGF)-beta, even though TGF-beta stimulated cell proliferation at low doses and induced the fibroblastic spindle-shape and express alpha-sm actin at high doses. CONCLUSIONS TKT loss in corneal keratocytes can be induced by PDGF or bFGF and this loss can be uncoupled from other fibrotic markers. Targeting these cytokines or the signaling pathways that they activate could enable retention of corneal crystallin in stromal cells during repair, a more regenerative outcome. The result would be enhanced clarity of the cornea.
Recognizing Horner's syndrome.

Horner's syndrome is a dramatic finding identified by perianesthesia nursesafter regional anesthesia. This article describes the relationship between Horner's syndrome and regional anesthesia while explaining the signs and symptoms as they relate to blockade of the sympathetic nervous system.
Spectral extent and pulse shape of the supercontinuum for ultrashort laser pulse

The pulse shape and the generated supercontinuum spectral distribution associated with the propagation of an ultrashort intense pulse in a cubic ( X^(3) ) nonlinear medium are obtained by solving the electromagnetic field wave equation using the method of multiple scales. New forms for the set of quasi-linear partial differential equations describing the system, pulse distortion, and the spectral extent of the supercontinuum are the focus of this paper.
Prognostic implications of partial sampling of radical prostatectomy specimens: comparison of 3 methods.

Purpose: We analyzed the prognostic implications of positive margins and extraprostatic extension missed by different methods of partially sampling prostatectomy specimens.Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 1,499 patients treated with radical prostatectomy. All specimens were processed uniformly and submitted entirely. For each patient with a positive margin or extraprostatic extension we determined whether these pathological characteristics would have been diagnosed had the specimen been examined by 3 partial sampling techniques. The Harrell concordance index was used to quantify the predictive performance of the Cox models based on the potential findings of the different sampling methods.Results: Partial sampling methods 1 and 2, which included the examination of alternate slides, missed 13% to 21% of positive margins and 27% to 46% of extraprostatic extensions. The effect on biochemical recurrence-free survival of these undetected pathological features was similar to that of positive m...
Lesion-produced telencephalic catecholamine imbalances and altered operant pecking rates in pigeons ☆

Pigeons with bilateral neurotoxic or electrolytic lesions within ventral mesencephalon, in nucleus tegmenti pedunculo pontinus (TP) (equivalent to substantia nigra) or area ventralis of Tsai (AVT), were found to have catecholamine (CA) depletion in the telencephalon, including the paleostriatum augmentatum (PA) and lobus parolfactorius (LPO), avian basal ganglia rich in CA. Joint telencephalic concentrations of dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) within individuals were found to vary with sustained fixed interval (FI) pecking rate increases or decreases following surgery. Low (below 75% of controls) DA/normal NE concentrations were found in individuals showing a marked reduction in their key pecking rates; low DA/low NE concentrations were found in individuals showing a marked increase in their pecking rates. The fit of these data with the NE-DA interaction hypothesis of Antelman and Caggiula [2] was acknowledged but the nature of that interaction remains to be clarified.
Bis(nitroamino‐1,2,4‐triazolates): N‐Bridging Strategy Toward Insensitive Energetic Materials

Modern energetic motifs for military and civilian applications are most often evaluated using various criteria, for example, energetic properties, production costs, and safety issues. Given this background, the design of energetic materials requires a deep understanding of both detonation performance and molecular stability. Here a new family of energetic bis(nitroamino-1,2,4-triazolates), which exhibit good thermal stabilities, excellent detonation properties, and low sensitivities, has been designed. Furthermore, two hydroxylammonium bis(azolates) with pyrazole and tetrazole backbones were synthesized, and they exhibit energetic properties analogous to the triazoles. This work highlights the application potential of N-bridged bis(azolates) as promising energetic materials.
Propofol Anesthesia for Bone Marrow Aspiration/Biopsy and Intrathecal Chemotherapy in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit 766

Propofol Anesthesia for Bone Marrow Aspiration/Biopsy and Intrathecal Chemotherapy in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit 766
Clinical Observations of Suicidal Behavior in a Neurotic, a Borderline, and a Psychotic Child: Common Processes of Symptom Formation

This paper illustrates the characteristics of suicidal behavior in three psychiatrically hospitalized children, ages six to 12 years, with neurotic, borderline, and psychotic disorders. The author proposes that the nature of suicidal fantasies and the mode of ego functioning associated with suicidal behavior in these disorders are similar. However, it is emphasized that other differences in the fantasies and ego functioning exist for these distinct disorders. The paper presents a hypothetical model of how suicidal behavior of children develops. The clinical implications of this model for neurotic, borderline and psychotic disorders are discussed.
Effect of 32P decay upon DNA synthesis by a radiation-sensitive strain of Escherichia coli

Decay of DNA- 32 P anywhere in the chromosome of a radiation-sensitive strain of Escherichia coli can lead to cessation of DNA synthesis. This effect is expressed without detectable delay.
Functional properties of whey protein concentrates from caprine and ovine specialty cheese wheys

Whey protein concentrates were prepared from two caprine and one ovine specialty cheese wheys by ultrafiltration-diafiltration and freeze-drying processes. The whey protein concentrates were compared with a bovine whey protein concentrate prepared by the same method for differences in composition and functional properties (foam overrun, foam stability, gelation, and emulsifying capability). Ovine whey protein concentrate showed significantly better foam overrun, foam stability, and gel strength than did bovine and caprine whey protein concentrates, and both caprine whey protein concentrates showed better gel strength than did bovine whey protein concentrate. Caprine whey protein concentrate, produced from rennet whey, showed significantly better emulsifying capability at low pH than did both bovine and ovine whey protein concentrates. Caprine whey protein concentrate, produced from direct-acidified whey, had less emulsification capability than did bovine whey protein concentrate produced from rennet whey.
Convergence analysis for cellular automata applied to truss design

Traditional parallel methods for structural design, as well as modern preconditioned iterative linear solvers, do not scale well. This paper discusses the application of massively scalable cellular automata (CA) techniques to structural design, specifically trusses. There are two sets of CA rules, one used to propagate stresses and strains, and one to perform design updates. These rules can be applied serially, periodically, or concurrently, and Jacobi or Gauss‐Seidel style updating can be done. These options are compared with respect to convergence, speed, and stability for an example, problem of combined sizing and topology design of truss domain structures. The central theme of the paper is that the cellular automaton paradigm is tantamount to classical block Jacobi or block Gauss‐Seidel iteration, and consequently the performance of a cellular automaton can be rigorously analyzed and predicted.
New drug salt formation in biodegradable microspheres

Abstract Purpose. To investigate the effects of inorganic salts in the external phase of an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion method during microsphere preparation. Methods. An O/W emulsion method was used to prepare poly( d , l -lactic acid) microspheres containing quinidine sulfate. Different inorganic salts were used in the external phase during microsphere preparation. Microsphere drug loading was determined by UV and the drug salt anions inside the microspheres were determined by ion chromatography. Results. New drug salts were formed during encapsulation in the microspheres when salts with non-common anions to the drug salt were used. Drug loading increased when NaClO4 or NaSCN were used. The fraction of drug as the new salt in microspheres increased non-linearly with the salt concentration in the external phase, however, the fraction of drug as the new encapsulated salt was linearly related to drug loading. Drug loading decreased and new salt fraction increased with increasing organic solvent volume or with decreasing cosolvent polarity. Conclusions. Introducing salts containing non-common anions to the drug salt employed in the external phase of O/W emulsion microsphere method leads to new salt formation. The extent of new drug salt formation is affected by salt levels added, cosolvent type and polymer concentration.
Tyrosine phosphorylation and endothelial cell barrier regulation.

In this issue of The American Journal of Pathology, Sui and co-authors1 evaluate the involvement of protein Tyr phosphatase (PTPase) μ in the regulation of zonula adherens (ZA) multiprotein complexes and endothelial cell (EC) paracellular permeability. They demonstrate that PTPase μ expression is almost completely restricted to the sites of cell-cell contacts in postconfluent pulmonary ECs, and this expression is required for EC barrier function. They also demonstrate that PTPase μ and VE-cadherin interact at cell borders where PTPase μ decreases tyrosine phosphorylation of VE-cadherin. These studies identify a link between PTPase μ-mediated VE-cadherin phosphorylation and EC permeability. The significance of these findings as they relate to phosphorylation in maintenance of the EC barrier is discussed below.
The Hall effect in granular metal films near the percolation threshold

Abstract We have measured the Hall effect in the granular metals Au-SiO2 and W-Al2O3 near their percolation thresholds. Our results indicate that when conduction is by electronic tunneling between isolated grains, the Hall coefficient is negative for both cermets. In the bulk, Au has a negative coefficient and W a positive one.
Human ribosomal RNA gene spacer sequences are found interpersed elsewhere in the genome

Abstract A cloned EcoRI fragment containing human 18 S rRNA gene sequences was used to screen a gene library to obtain a set of 8 overlapping cloned DNA segments extending into the non-transcribed spacer region of the human ribosomal RNA gene cluster. 19.4 kb of the approx. 43-kb rDNA repeat was obtained in cloned form and mapped with restriction endonucleases. None of the clones obtained extended into 28 S rRNA sequences. A 7-kb region of non-transcribed spacer DNA shared in common between five independent clones was subjected to comparative restriction digests. It was estimated that sequences among the five different spacer isolates varied by no more than 1.0%, if all the observed differences are assumed due to point mutation. HaeII-restriction fragments from within this same 7-kb region contain sequences carried not only within the tandem repeats of the gene cluster but interspersed elsewhere in the genome. Some of these sequences correspond to the Alu family of highly repeated interspersed sequences.
Connecting the Commodore 64 to the IBM PC

Hardware is described that permits bidirectional transfer of data between the Commodore 64 and an IBM-compatible PC. Commercial terminal programs can be used to transmit data. The hardware, which can be constructed for less than $15, opens up several opportunities for making good use of the cost-effective C64 computer.
The Kantian Peace: The Pacific Benefits of Democracy, Interdependence, and International Organizations, 1885-1992

The authors test Kantian and realist theories of interstate conflict using data extending over more than a century, treating those theories as complementary rather than competing. As the classical liberals believed, democracy, economic interdependence, and international organizations have strong and statistically significant effects on reducing the probability that states will be involved in militarized disputes. Moreover, the benefits are not limited to the cold war era. Some realist influences, notably distance and power predominance, also reduce the likelihood of interstate conflict. The character of the international system, too, affects the probability of dyadic disputes. The consequences of having a strong hegemonic power vary, but high levels of democracy and interdependence in the international system reduce the probability of conflict for all dyads, not just for those that are democratic or dependent on trade.
Long-term outcome in methylmalonic acidurias is influenced by the underlying defect (mut0, mut-, cblA, cblB).

Isolated methylmalonic acidurias comprise a heterogeneous group of inborn errors of metabolism caused by defects of methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MCM) (mut0, mut–) or deficient synthesis of its cofactor 5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin (AdoCbl) (cblA, cblB). The aim of this study was to compare the long-term outcome in patients from these four enzymatic subgroups. Eighty-three patients with isolated methylmalonic acidurias (age 7–33 y) born between 1971 and 1997 were enzymatically characterized and prospectively followed to evaluate the long-term outcome (median follow-up period, 18 y). Patients with mut0 (n = 42), mut− (n = 10), cblA (n = 20), and cblB (n = 11) defects were included into the study. Thirty patients (37%) died, and 26 patients survived with a severe or moderate neurologic handicap (31%), whereas 27 patients (32%) remained neurologically uncompromised. Chronic renal failure (CRF) was found most frequently in mut0 (61%) and cblB patients (66%), and was predicted by the urinary excretion of methylmalonic acid (MMA) before CRF. Overall, patients with mut0 and cblB defects had an earlier onset of symptoms, a higher frequency of complications and deaths, and a more pronounced urinary excretion of MMA than those with mut− and cblA defects. In addition, long-term outcome was dependent on the age cohort and cobalamin responsiveness.
Life-time and surface effects on the L23 VV Auger spectra of aluminum☆

Abstract Electronic life-time and surface effects on the L 23 VV Auger spectrum of Al have been calculated. The resulting spectrum predicts a low energy secondary peak due to plasmon excitation and shows good agreement with experiment at the main peak region.
Neutral palladium complexes as catalysts for olefin-methyl acrylate copolymerization: A cautionary tale

Neutral palladium complexes bearing pyrrole−imine ligands (I−III) have been synthesized, and their use as catalysts for olefin and vinyl monomer (co)polymerizations was investigated. Methyl acrylate (MA) has been homopolymerized in excellent yields (>95%) using these complexes. Copolymerizations of MA with norbornene or 1-hexene in the presence of these catalysts produce acrylate-enriched copolymers. Hypothesizing that metal enolates are potential intermediates in some of these polymerizations, palladium enolate complexes (IV−VII) containing ligand 1 were tested for their catalytic activity. Surprisingly, these complexes proved inactive toward acrylate and/or olefin polymerizations. Further mechanistic studies have shown that the homo- and copolymers obtained using these complexes arise from a radical mechanism rather than the anticipated metal-mediated process.
Whole pelvic radiotherapy for prostate cancer using 3D conformal and intensity-modulated radiotherapy.

Purpose: To investigate the correlations between observed clinical morbidity and dosimetric parameters for whole pelvic radiotherapy (WPRT) for prostate cancer using either three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) or intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Methods and Materials: Between December 1996 and January 2002, 27 patients with prostate adenocarcinoma were treated with conformal WPRT as part of their definitive treatment. WPRT was delivered with 3D-CRT in 14 patients and with IMRT in 13 patients. For each of the patients treated with IMRT, optimized conventional two-dimensional (2D) and 3D-CRT plans were retrospectively generated for the whole pelvic phase of the treatment. Dose–volume histograms for the bowel, bladder, and rectum were compared for the three techniques. Acute toxicities were evaluated for all 27 patients, and late toxicities were evaluated for 25 patients with sufficient follow-up. Toxicities were scored according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group morbidity grading scales. Median follow-up was 30 months. Results: Three-dimensional-CRT resulted in a 40% relative reduction ( p p p Conclusions: Compared to conventional 2D planning, conformal planning for WPRT resulted in significant reductions in the doses delivered to the bowel, rectum, and bladder. IMRT was superior to 3D-CRT in limiting the volume of bowel and rectum within high-dose regions. These dosimetric findings correlated with low rates of acute and late GI morbidity.
Oxidation of PB-SN and PB-SN-in Alloys: Bulk VS. Grain boundary regions

Air oxidized Pb-Sn and Pb-Sn-In single phase alloys have been studied with scanning Auger microscopy. Line scans across grain boundaries combined with argon ion sputter etching revealed grain boundary oxidation. In the Pb-Sn samples, tin is preferentially oxidized with the grain boundary regions having a much higher percentage of tin oxide than the bulk surface oxide. In the Pb-Sn-In alloys, both tin and indium are preferentially oxidized with the grain boundary regions being enriched with tin and indium oxides.
Nuclear disintegration in relativistic heavy ion collisions

The breakdown of the participant spectator model for central relativistic nuclear collisions is discussed and a different picture of a hot spot followed by a target explosion is suggested to be more consistent with the data.
High-Dimensionality Data Reduction with Java

The author used the Java multimedia framework along with statistical software from the Colt project to preprocess and compare videos downloaded from Internet sites. Preprocessing the videos decreases each one's dimensionality and size, making it easier to analyze, interpret, and convey useful information about the data's most relevant attributes. In this article, the author shows that preprocessing raw data to decrease its dimensionality and size is essential for interpreting data and conveying useful information about its attributes. Graphically visualizing data sets with histograms or other graphs can help researchers detect structural features and properties for classifying similar data sets or making inferences about different data sets.
Luminance of the Sun

Using a photoelectric telephotometer and a calibration source, drift curves of the luminance of the sun along a diameter were obtained for different zenith distances of the sun on clear days. After extrapolation to zero air mass, the luminance B(0,0) at the center of the sun’s disk observed outside the earth’s atmosphere was obtained as 243 000±5000 candles/cm2. The data obtained for the radial distribution of luminance being comparatively less accurate, the standard limb darkening data of Abbot and others were used to give the average luminance B¯=193 000±4000 candles/cm2 and the extraterrestrial total solar illumination Ē0=12 200±300 lumens/ft2 for the mean solar distance. Previous determinations of Ē0 found in the literature are reviewed and compared with these results.
CHROMIUM SPECIATION IN AEROSOLS BY RAPID SINGLE-PARTICLE MASS SPECTROMETRY

Abstract On-line speciation of chromium in aerosol particles by rapid single-particle mass spectrometry is discussed. Aerosols are sampled directly into the mass spectrometer where individual particles are detected by light scattering from a continuous laser beam. The scatter pulse from each particle triggers an excimer laser which ablates the particle in flight. Ions produced from the ablation event are analyzed by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The negative ion spectra of particles containing chromium are dominated by chromium oxide clusters. The energy distribution of these ions suggests that they are produced by complex bond formation and dissociation processes in the ablation plume. Since these processes are strongly affected by the particle composition, the distribution of cluster ions can give a unique signature of the chromium species that are present, including a qualitative assessment of the relative amounts of Cr(III) and Cr(VI). However, these processes are also influenced by experimental variables such as particle size, water content, laser irradiance, and the identities of impurity and/or counterions, which must be controlled or accounted for in an analysis.
Synthetic Trades and Calendar Day Patterns The Case of the Dollar/Sterling Markets

Significant day of the week patterns are shown to exist in the dollar/sterling market. These patterns are associated with the returns to synthetic and actual forward trades as well as to spot trades. These trading strategies, geared to buying or selling sterling, reflect different timing, if not valuation, considerations on the part of traders. Nevertheless, pronounced calendar patterns are observed on Wednesdays for all the trading strategies evaluated. This is attributable to significantly different risks on Wednesdays. The observed end-of-the-week patterns in forward returns persist and reinforce the returns at the start of the next week of trading. Furthermore, the overall returns to forward speculation on Fridays and Mondays are of opposite sign. Our results on calendar day patterns are thus supported by both parametric and non-parametric tests. We provide evidence that the frequency of synthetic trading opportunities is inversely related to maturity. We also find that the period of market turbulence analyzed did not trigger abnormal opportunities for covered interest arbitrage.
Mediation of sulfur speciation by a Black Sea facultative anaerobe

Shewanella putrefaciens, a respiratory facultative anaerobe isolated from the Black Sea, can reduce thiosulfate, sulfite, and elemental sulfur to sulfide readily and quantitatively. This widespread and anaerobically versatile microorganism, which is incapable of reducing sulfate, uses oxidized sulfur intermediates as electron acceptors during the respiratory oxidation of organic matter. Because of its widespread distribution and abundance, it may play a significant role in sulfur and trace metal cycling in the Black Sea and in other marine and freshwater anaerobic environments.
Analysis of high burnup spent nuclear fuel by ICP-MS

We have used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) as the primary tool for determining concentrations of a suite of nuclides in samples excised from high-burnup spent nuclear fuel rods taken from light water nuclear reactors. The complete analysis included the determination of 95Mo, 99Tc, 101Ru, 103Rh, 109Ag, 137Cs, 143Nd, 145Nd,148Nd,147Sm, 149Sm, 150Sm, 151Sm, 152Sm, 151Eu, 153Eu, 155Eu, 155Gd, 237Np, 234U, 235U, 236U, 238U, 238Pu, 239Pu, 240Pu, 241Pu, 242Pu, 241Am, 242mAm, and 243Am. The isotopic composition of fissiogenic lanthanide elements was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ICP-MS detection. These analytical results allow the determination of fuel burn-up based on 148Nd, Pu, and U content, as well as provide input for storage and disposal criticality calculations. Results show that ICP-MS along with HPLC-ICP-MS are suitable of performing routine determinations of most of these nuclides, with an uncertainty of ±10% at the 95% confidence level.
Piecewise linear aggregation functions

The Choquet and Sugeno (fuzzy) integrals are examples of piecewise linear functions on a finite dimensional space Rn. In this paper we consider piecewise linear functions as aggregation functions and establish a Max-Min polynomial representation of these functions.
Acute myocardial infarction with normal coronary arteries associated with acetylcholine-induced vasoconstriction in the absence of a positive ergonovine test.

Abstract A small but important percentage of patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction are found to have angiographically normal epicardial coronary arteries. 1 Coronary embolism has long been thought to cause infarction in these circumstances. Thrombosis or coronary spasm at sites of angiographically inapparent atherosclerotic plaques has also been observed. 2,3 Recent studies suggest that coronary endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis may contribute to the predisposition both for coronary vasospasm as well as for coronary thrombus formation. 4,5 The integrity of at least 1 aspect of endothelial function, that mediating vasodilation, can now be assessed in vivo by the intracoronary administration of acetylcholine, an agent that dilates arteries indirectly by releasing endothelium-derived relaxing factor and directly constricts arterial smooth muscle when endothelium is denuded or dysfunctional. We present the history of a young man with 2 myocardial infarctions in whom diagnostic coronary arteriography and ergonovine testing failed to reveal abnormalities but acetylcholine testing provided evidence of coronary endothelial dysfunction that may have contributed to the infarctions.
A multimedia based hybrid system for healthcare application

The objective in the paper is to design a multimedia hybrid system which provides communication methods and file types for performing better communication among hospitals, physicians and patients. All the data is stored on a server and accessible only by authorized users. The data includes text, voice, video, and image data. The system is not only accessible through desktops and laptops but also mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
Coronary artery bypass grafting “On Pump”: role of three-day discharge

Background. A new emphasis has been directed toward "off-pump" coronary artery bypass grafting to avoid the morbidity of cardiopulmonary bypass and further reduce the postoperative hospital length of stay. With the intent of achieving a hospital discharge for "on-pump" coronary artery bypass grafting procedures comparable with the same procedures "off pump," we applied a rapid-recovery protocol with particular attention paid to patients eligible for discharge on the third postoperative day. Methods. The cases of 104 consecutive patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting using cardiopulmonary bypass were retrospectively reviewed. A rapid-recovery protocol emphasizing reduced cardiopulmonary bypass time, an anesthesia protocol for early extubation, perioperative administration of corticosteroids and thyroid hormone, and aggressive diuresis was applied to all patients. The goal during the first 24 hours postoperatively was to achieve early extubation as well as a mild state of negative fluid balance and to ensure absence of postoperative bleeding and a safe transfer from the intensive care unit to a monitored floor. On the second postoperative day, chest drains were discontinued, and aggressive ambulation therapy was instituted. If at 72 hours postoperatively the patient was walking without assistance, had return of normal bowel function, and had no atrial fibrillation, a 3-day discharge home was planned. Results. The 30-day mortality rate for the entire group was 1.9%. The average postoperative hospital length of stay for the entire series was 4.8 ± 2.4 days. Of the 102 survivors, 30 patients (29%) were discharged within 3 days postoperatively (group 1), and 72 patients (71%) were discharged after the third postoperative day (group 2). Patients in group 1 were younger and had fewer comorbid conditions. Compared with group 2, group 1 had fewer patients with diabetes (7% versus 28%; p Conclusions. With the application of a rapid-recovery protocol to patients undergoing "on-pump" coronary artery bypass grafting, discharge home within 3 days postoperatively is attainable and safe for patients who have minimal comorbid conditions.
Invasion of the central nervous system by Treponema pallidum: implications for diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract Study Objectives:To determine the prevalence ofTreponema pallidumin cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with syphilis, to determine the effect of concurrent HIV infection on central nerv...
Computational detection of the binding‐site hot spot at the remodeled human growth hormone–receptor interface

A hierarchical computational approach is used to identify the engineered binding-site cavity at the remodeled intermolecular interface between the mutants of human growth hormone (hGH) and the extracellular domain of its receptor (hGHbp). Multiple docking simulations are conducted with the remodeled hGH-hGHbp complex for a panel of potent benzimidazole-containing inhibitors that can restore the binding affinity of the wild-type complex, and for a set of known nonactive small molecules that contain different heterocyclic motifs. Structural clustering of ligand-bound conformations and binding free-energy calculations, using the AMBER force field and a continuum solvation model, can rapidly locate and screen numerous ligand-binding modes on the protein surface and detect the binding-site hot spot at the intermolecular interface. Structural orientation of the benzimidazole motif in the binding-site cavity closely mimics the position of the hot spot residue W104 in the crystal structure of the wild-type complex, which is recognized as an important structural requirement for restoring binding affinity. Despite numerous pockets on the protein surface of the mutant hGH-hGHbp complex, the binding-site cavity presents the energetically favorable hot spot for the benzimidazole-containing inhibitors, whereas for a set of nonactive molecules, the lowest energy ligand conformations do not necessarily bind in the engineered cavity. The results reveal a dominant role of the intermolecular van der Waals interactions in providing favorable ligand-protein energetics in the redesigned interface, in agreement with the experimental and computational alanine scanning of the hGH-hGHbp complex.
Microscale Location, Characterization, and Association of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons on Harbor Sediment Particles

Complementary mass spectrometric and spectroscopic techniques were employed to provide direct information at the microscale on the sequestration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminants in Milwaukee Harbor sediment particles. Microprobe two-step laser desorption/laser ionization mass spectrometry was used for PAH measurements, infrared microspectroscopy was used for organic carbon measurement, and scanning electron microscopy with wavelength dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used for elemental microanalysis. PAH concentrations on coal- and wood-derived particles were found to be several orders of magnitude higher than on silica particles. A cryomicrotome sectioning procedure was employed for particle cross-sectional investigations, and it was found that most PAHs are concentrated on external surface regions indicating near surface sorption mechanisms. The coal/wood-derived particles constitute only 5% of the sediment by weight but contain 62% of the total PAHs. The remaining 38% are mainly in...
Energetic Coupling Between Amino Acids in the pH-Sensing Region of the KcsA Channel

The bacterial potassium channel KcsA is gated by high concentrations of intracellular protons, allowing the channel to open at pH < 5.5. Replacing key ionizable residues from the N and C termini of KcsA with residues mimicking their protonated counterparts with respect to charge renders the channel open up to pH 9.0 (Thompson et al., 2008). We proposed that these residues function as the proton-binding sites. At neutral pH they form a complex network of inter- and intrasubunit salt bridges and hydrogen bonds near the bundle crossing, stabilizing the closed state. At acidic pH, these residues change their ionization state, thereby disrupting this network, favoring channel opening. To gain insight into the interactions that govern channel opening, we performed a thermodynamic analysis of the residues in the pH-sensing region. Individual mutations of most residues in this region result in modest shifts in the pH dependence of channel opening. However, pair-wise mutations of a subset of these amino acids show a large shift on the pH dependence of the channel opening suggesting these amino acids interact to open the channel with protons.