cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Educational support groups for patients with ankylosing spondylitis: A preliminary report

Educational support groups (ESGs) for patients with ankylosing spondylitis were found to significantly (P less than 0.01) increase knowledge about the disease and its treatment. Compliance of participants with their prescribed exercise programs was improved, although the improvement did not achieve statistical significance. Compliance with prescribed application of heat to joints was not changed. Control patients showed no substantial changes in knowledge or compliance. Although analysis of pretest and posttest responses on a questionnaire did not indicate that the ESGs enhanced the patients' ability to cope with ankylosing spondylitis or their perception of the adequacy of family relationships with regard to the disease, verbal feedback concerning these areas was positive in most cases. Patients did not express negative feelings about the thought of meeting another person with ankylosing spondylitis whose disease was less severe or whose coping ability was greater or less than their own. Two patients who initially believed that they would feel threatened if they were to meet a more severely ill patient relinquished that concern after ESG participation.
Characterization and detection of cellular and proteomic alterations in stable stathmin-overexpressing, taxol-resistant BT549 breast cancer cells using offgel IEF/PAGE difference gel electrophoresis

Stathmin/oncoprotein 18, a protein that regulates microtubule dynamics, is highly expressed in a number of tumors including leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers. High stathmin levels have been associated with the development of resistance to the widely used anti-cancer drug taxol ((®)Taxol, paclitaxel). The mechanisms of stathmin-mediated taxol resistance are not well-understood at the molecular level. To better understand the role of stathmin in taxol resistance, we stably overexpressed stathmin twofold in BT549 human breast cancer cells and characterized several cell processes involved in the mechanism of action of taxol. After stable overexpression of stathmin, neither the cell doubling time nor the mitotic index was altered and the microtubule polymer mass was reduced only modestly (by 18%). Unexpectedly, microtubule dynamicity was reduced by 29% after stathmin overexpression, resulting primarily from reduction in the catastrophe frequency. Sensitivity to taxol was reduced significantly (by 44%) in a clonogenic assay, and stathmin appeared to protect the cells from the spindle-damaging effects of taxol. The results suggest that in the stably stathmin-overexpressing clones, compensatory gene expression occurred that resulted in normal rates of cell proliferation and prevented the increase in catastrophe frequency expected in response to stathmin. Stathmin overexpression protected the cells from taxol-induced abnormal mitoses, and thus induced taxol resistance. Using offgel IEF/PAGE difference gel electrophoresis, we identified a number of proteins whose expression is reduced in the taxol-resistant stathmin-overexpressing cell lines, including proteins involved in the cytoskeleton and cell structure, the stress response, protein folding, glycolysis, and catalysis.
Solidification behavior of impurity-doped succinonitrile solutions in high-surface area, low-bulk volume containers

Abstract Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of fast-quenched succinonitrile-water solutions has shown interesting undercooling characteristics. Degree of undercooling during fast-quenches of solutions that are near monotectic is partly a function of equilibration temperature in cells having high surface: bulk volume ratios. These experiments were performed in hydrophilic cells where the dopant, water, preferentially wets the wall. The explanation of these phenomena is consistent with preferred homogeneous solution aggregates at various temperatures, and temperature dependent relative adsorption in miscibility-gap systems. Additionally, directional solidification of succinonitrile-based solutions in narrow path-length cells shows evidence of bulk morphology dependence on cell surface properties. To supplement the DSC data, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were taken using a zinc selenide attenuated total reflectance (ATR) cell. Spectra were taken at various temperatures and concentrations in succinonitrile-rich and water-rich homogeneous solutions.
Functional interaction between SHPTP1 and the Lyn tyrosine kinase in the apoptotic response to DNA damage.

Abstract The Lyn protein-tyrosine kinase is activated in the cellular response to DNA-damaging agents. Here we demonstrate that Lyn associates constitutively with the SHPTP1 protein-tyrosine phosphatase. The SH3 domain of Lyn interacts directly with SHPTP1. The results show that Lyn phosphorylates SHPTP1 at the C-terminal Tyr-564 site. Lyn-mediated phosphorylation of SHPTP1 stimulates SHPTP1 tyrosine phosphatase activity. We also demonstrate that treatment of cells with 1-β-d-arabinofuranosylcytosine and other genotoxic agents induces Lyn-dependent phosphorylation and activation of SHPTP1. The significance of the Lyn-SHPTP1 interaction is supported by the demonstration that activation of Lyn contributes in part to the apoptotic response to ara-C treatment and that SHPTP1 attenuates this response. These findings support a functional interaction between Lyn and SHPTP1 in the response to DNA damage.
Diagnosis and Management of Pericardial Disease

The pericardium serves many important functions but is not essential for life. Pericardial heart disease comprises only pericarditis and its complications, tamponade and constriction, and congenital lesions. However, the pericardium is affected by virtually every category of disease. Thus the critical care physician is likely to encounter the patient with pericardial disease in a variety of settings, either as an isolated phenomenon or as a complication of a variety of systemic disorders, trauma, or certain drugs. Despite exhaustive etiological lists, the cause of pericardial heart disease is often never identified. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic pericarditis with an emphasis on those areas of greatest interest to the intensivist.
Scattering of a Bose-Einstein condensate from an oscillating barrier

We experimentally and theoretically investigate the scattering of a Bose-Einstein condensate from a single amplitude-modulated potential barrier as a first step towards a turnstile quantum pump.
Correlation between the Width of the Glass Transition Region and the Temperature Dependence of the Viscosity of High‐Tg Glasses

A correlation exists between the width of the glass transition region measured using DTA or DSC during heating and the activation enthalpy ΔH η * for the shear viscosity of high-Tg inorganic glasses. This is demonstrated by the constancy of a dimensionless parameter C = (ΔH η * /R)(1/Tg − 1/Tg'), where Tg and Tg' are temperatures marking the extrapolated onset and finish of the transition region on the DTA or DSC trace. The logarithm of the shear viscosity at Tg, log η (Tg), is also approximately constant for high-Tg glasses. Using the universal values of C and log η (Tg), fairly reliable estimates of shear viscosities from the transition range through the working range can be made from the Tg and Tg' values obtained using DTA or DSC
Crack-opening-area analyses for circumferential through-wall cracks in pipes—Part II: model validations

Abstract This is the second paper in a series of three papers generated from a recent study on crack-opening-area analysis of circumferentially cracked pipes for leak-before-break applications. This paper (Part II—Model Validations) focuses on the evaluation of current analytical models, discussed in the first paper (Part I—Analytical Models) as well as finite element models for conducting crack-opening-area analyses of pipes with circumferential through-wall cracks. The evaluation was performed by direct comparisons of the predicted results with the test data from full-scale pipe fracture experiments. The results from 25 full-scale pipe fracture experiments, conducted in the Degraded Piping Program, the International Piping Integrity Research Group Program and the Short Cracks in Piping and Piping Welds Program, were used to verify the analytical models. The main objective was the evaluation of engineering analysis procedures (estimation methods) as well as the ability of the finite element method to predict crack-opening displacements and shapes in pipes with circumferential through-wall cracks. Statistics were developed to quantify the accuracy of the current predictive models. A wide variety of pipe fracture tests involving cracks in base metals, weld metals and bimetallic weld metals were analyzed. Pipes containing both simple through-wall cracks and complex cracks were evaluated.
Transectal sonography for serial evaluationof prostatic malignancy

Abstract Serial changes in the prostatic bed as identified by transrectal sonography in 31 patientswith prostatic carcinoma were correlated with systemic change in disease. Seventy-three sonograms were performed, allowing interval change to be evaluated in 42 instances. Sonography demonstrating regression correlated with clinical response in 89 percent (8/9) of studies and with disease progression in 91 percent(10/11). Stable disease was correctly evaluated by sonography in only 56 percent (10/18) of studies. Six of those 8 incorrectly identified as stable were in men with prostatic irradiation prior to inclusion in this study. If they are excluded,stability was accurately gauged in 83 percent (10/12). Stability of the prostate on serial sonography may not accurately reflect clinical status in men with prior prostatic irradiation. In 1 patient abscess was superimposed on and could not be differentiated from tumor. Nodules of increased, decreased, and mixed echogenicity showed the same response to treatment as the total prostate volume.
Time in Islam

Abstract Islam displaces the ancient idea of time as an implacable enemy with the scriptural image of time as the stage of judgment, a narrow bridge of accountability stretched between creation and eternity. The stark contrast of temporal evanescence with all the immutability of eternity challenges Muslim theologians and philosophers of the classic age. The dialectical theologians of the kalam describe time and change atomisti‐cally and even occasionalistically, seeking to preserve the absoluteness of the contrast and to avoid compromising the purity of God's creative act and the sheer facticity of its temporal effect. The falasifa, philosophers in the Greek tradition, use Platonic, Aristotelian, and Neoplatonic arguments to reconcile temporality with eternity. Stripped of argument, their emanative and archetypal schemes join the core symbolisms of Islam, but only when accommodated to the Qur'anic ideas of judgment and creation.
IKK-i/IKKϵ Controls Constitutive, Cancer Cell-associated NF-κB Activity via Regulation of Ser-536 p65/RelA Phosphorylation

Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) has been studied extensively as an inducible transcriptional regulator of the immune and inflammatory response. NF-κB activation downstream of lipopolysaccharide or cytokine stimulation is controlled by the IκB kinase complex, which contains IKKα and IKKβ. Significantly, the constitutive activity of NF-κB has been implicated as an important aspect of many cancer cells, but mechanisms associated with this activity are poorly understood. An inducible kinase, IKK-i/IKKϵ, related to the catalytic forms of the IκB kinase, has been studied as an anti-viral, innate immune regulator through its ability to control the activity of the transcription factors IRF-3 and IRF-7. Here, we demonstrate that IKK-i/IKKϵ is expressed in a number of cancer cells and is involved in regulating NF-κB activity through its ability to control basal/constitutive, but not cytokine-induced, p65/RelA phosphorylation at Ser-536, a modification proposed to contribute to the transactivation function of NF-κB. Knockdown of IKK-i/IKKϵ or expression of a S536A mutant form of p65 suppresses HeLa cell proliferation. The data indicate a role for IKK-i/IKKϵ in controlling proliferation of certain cancer cells through regulation of constitutive NF-κB activity.
Effect of third element additions on the properties of bronze processed Nb 3 Sn

The effect of additions of Al, Sn or Zr to the Nb core, together with additions of Al, Ga or In to the bronze matrix, on the rate of layer growths and critical current density of Nb 3 Sn formed by the bronze process has been studied. Small amounts of Al (1.25 wt%) in the core, separately or together with a few percent of Al in the matrix, replacing some of the Sn, increase the rate of growth of the Nb 3 Sn layer. Larger quantities of Al (>2 wt%), of Ga or of In in the matrix decrease the rate of layer growth by more than can be accounted for by the concomitant reduction in Sn content. Low field critical current density is more dependent upon layer thickness and growth rate than upon composition. High field critical current density is directly related to the upper critical field.
Modeling the association between lifecourse socioeconomic disadvantage and systemic inflammation in healthy adults: The role of self-control.

Objective: We sought to identify pathways connecting lifecourse socioeconomic status (SES) with chronic, low-grade inflammation, focusing on the explanatory roles of self-control, abdominal adiposity, and health practices. Methods: Participants were 360 adults aged 15–55 who were free of chronic medical conditions. They were roughly equally divided between low and high current SES, with each group further divided between low and high early-life SES. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to identify direct and indirect pathways linking early-life and current SES with low-grade, chronic inflammation in adulthood, as manifest by serum interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein. Low SES was hypothesized to relate to inflammation by reducing self-control, which in turn was hypothesized to facilitate lifestyle factors that potentiate inflammation (smoking, alcohol use, sedentary behavior, and weight gain). Results: Analyses revealed that self-control was pivotal in linking both early-life and current SES to inflammation. Low early-life SES was related to a harsher family climate, and in turn lower adult self-control, over and above the effects of current SES. Controlling for early-life SES, low current SES was associated with perceived stress and, in turn, diminished self-control. Results showed that lower self-control primarily operated through higher abdominal adiposity to associate with greater inflammation. Conclusions: The findings suggest a mechanistic scenario wherein low SES in early life or adulthood depletes self-control and, in turn, fosters adiposity and inflammation. These pathways should be studied longitudinally to elucidate and potentially ameliorate socioeconomic disparities in health.
Lung Pathology in Premature Infants with Ureaplasma urealyticum Infection

Respiratory tract colonization with Ureaplasma urealyticum in preterm infants has been associated with a higher incidence of pneumonia, severe respiratory failure, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and death. In this report, we characterize the lung pathology and expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) associated with U. urealyticum pneumonia in very low-birth weight infants (VLBW; < or =1500 g). Lung pathology of archived autopsy specimens was retrospectively reviewed in three groups of VLBW infants: 5 gestational controls who died from nonpulmonary causes, 13 infants with pneumonia who were culture and/or PCR negative for U. urealyticum, and 5 infants with pulmonary disease and positive for U. urealyticum by tracheal aspirate and/or lung tissue culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Presence and extent of alveolar macrophages and neutrophils, as well as interstitial lymphocytic infiltration and fibrosis were evaluated. PCR was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lung sections. Additional sections were immunostained for TNF-alpha. The peripheral total white blood cell counts and absolute neutrophil counts were three-fold higher in infants with U. urealyticum pneumonia than cell counts in infants infected with other organisms. There was a trend toward a predominance of neutrophils in alveoli of non- Ureaplasma pneumonia infants, but a trend toward a predominance of alveolar macrophages in U. urealyticum-infected infants. The most striking finding was the presence of increased interstitial fibrosis in all Ureaplasma-infected infants. TNF-alpha immunoreactive cell density was very low in the gestational controls, but increased in both pneumonia groups. We conclude that persistent lung U. urealyticum infection may contribute to chronic inflammation and early fibrosis in the preterm lung.
Some remarks on the propagation and non-propagation of discontinuities in linearly viscoelastic liquids

The equations of linear viscoelasticity with a bounded memory kernel have been shown to propagate singularities in a similar way as hyperbolic equations. In this paper, we investigate a model problem for a certain class of unbounded memory kernels. It is shown thatC∞-solutions are obtained, although there is a discontinuity in the boundary conditions.
A compact optical spectrometer based on a single-grating Fresnel diffractive optical element

Recently, we have demonstrated a hybrid diffractive optical element that combines the dispersion function of a grating and the focusing function of a Fresnel lens (G-Fresnel) into a single device. The G-Fresnel promises a low f-number enabling miniaturization of a spectrometer system while maintaining high spectral resolution. A proof-of-concept G-Fresnel based spectrometer is demonstrated, yielding sub-nanometer resolution. Due to its compactness and low-cost fabrication technique, the G-Fresnel based spectrometer has the potential for use in mobile platforms such as lab-on-a-chip microfluidic devices and other mobile spectrometer applications.
Coupling of AMPA receptors with the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger in cultured rat astrocytes

Astrocytes exhibit three transmembrane Ca(2+) influx pathways: voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (VGCCs), the alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) class of glutamate receptors, and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchangers. Each of these pathways is thought to be capable of mediating a significant increase in Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)); however, the relative importance of each and their interdependence in the regulation astrocyte [Ca(2+)](i) is not known. We demonstrate here that 100 microM AMPA in the presence of 100 microM cyclothiazide (CTZ) causes an increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in cultured cerebral astrocytes that requires transmembrane Ca(2+) influx. This increase of [Ca(2+)](i) is blocked by 100 microM benzamil or 0.5 microM U-73122, which inhibit reverse-mode operation of the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger by independent mechanisms. This response does not require Ca(2+) influx through VGCCs, nor does it depend upon a significant Ca(2+) influx through AMPA receptors (AMPARs). Additionally, AMPA in the presence of CTZ causes a depletion of thapsigargin-sensitive intracellular Ca(2+) stores, although depletion of these Ca(2+) stores does not decrease the peak [Ca(2+)](i) response to AMPA. We propose that activation of AMPARs in astrocytes can cause [Ca(2+)](i) to increase through the reverse mode operation of the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger with an associated release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. This proposed mechanism requires neither Ca(2+)-permeant AMPARs nor the activation of VGCCs to be effective.
Infrared Spectroscopy Study of Microstructures of Poly(silsesquioxane)s

Results are presented from theoretical and experimental infrared (IR) spectroscopy studies of the microstructures of poly(silsesquioxane)s (PSSQs) of varying chemical composition. The calculated IR spectra show two distinct asymmetric Si−O−Si stretch vibration bands for models of complete polyhedral cages, incomplete open cages, and short ladder structures. Close analyses of the calculated results indicate that the higher frequency IR band at about 1150 cm−1 is derived from the parallel asymmetric Si−O−Si stretch vibration mode in the (Si−O)n ring subunit while the lower frequency band at about 1050 cm−1 is due to the asymmetric Si−O−Si stretch symmetric with respect to the inversion point at the center of the (Si−O)n ring and is absent in highly symmetric cage structures. Experimentally, poly(methylsilsesquioxane) (PMSQ), poly(isobutylsilsesquioxane) (PiBSQ), and poly(phenylsilsesquioxane) (PPhSQ) exhibit a varying tendency of cage-like structures, rather than ladder structures, in as-polymerized samples...
Crude, Coppertone®, and the coast: Developmental channelization and constraint of alternative development opportunities

Southern Louisiana and southern Florida are characterized by the two most extensive coastal wetlands in the continental United States. These immense, seemingly hostile, and similar environments have experienced two very different directions of regional development. Louisiana developed much earlier, focusing initially on the extraction of renewable resources from the coastal marsh. Later, by the 1920s, the discovery of oil and gas led to the rapid development of an offshore, nonrenewable extractive system that is literally unparalleled on the planet. In contrast, at the time of early settlement, southern Florida had fewer recognized renewable or nonrenewable resources; its development began later, centered around amenity use rather than consumptive use of resources. In spite of potentially massive economic benefits, Florida has bitterly fought recent attempts at offshore oil or gas exploitation, and coastal tourism in Louisiana seems as unlikely as offshore development in Florida. At the same time, however...
Awareness of Novel Drug Legality in a Young Adult Population

In recent years, use of substances commonly referred to as ‘legal highs’ has become a significant concern to policy makers and public health officials. Though legislation banning the use and possession of these novel and synthetic drugs often follows the initial media attention and public outcry, potential users may often be unaware of the legislation. A survey including self-reported drug use and perceptions of the legality of various psychoactive substances was administered to 2,346 students in randomly selected classes at a large public university to determine what portion accurately knew four types of novel drugs were locally illegal. Results indicated that numerous potential and current users incorrectly believed that the former ‘legal highs’ remained unrestricted. This sample did include a number of novel drug users; lifetime use of at least one novel drug was reported by 17.1 %, many of which reported using multiple types of novel drugs. Approximately one-third of the overall sample inaccurately believed that Salvia divinorum (34.7 %), K2/Spice (36.5 %), and Mr. Miyagi/Pot-pourri (32.1 %) were legal in the state and over half (50.3 %) inaccurately believed ‘bath salts’ (synthetic cathinones, MDPV, and other synthetic stimulants) remained legal. As these misperceptions have the potential to influence substance use decisions, they may need to be corrected through educational campaigns as widespread as the preceding media coverage that labeled the drug as ‘legal highs.’ Results also indicated that Blacks and previous users of the substances were more likely to hold inaccurate legal beliefs.
Increasing extractability of protein for allergen detection after food processing

Abstract The food industry is concerned about the presence of hidden allergens or undesired protein residues in final products and has to take measures to comply with current food allergen-labelling regulations. It is known that thermal processing decreases protein solubility and hinders the accuracy of their quantitation. The objective of this study was to optimise the extraction step before quantitation. Almonds were roasted at several temperatures (230, 260 and 400 °C) for 10 min and ground to meals, defatted and extracted with water, PBS and PBST for 30 min at 25 °C, 40 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C, respectively. The extracts were then sonicated in a temperature-controlled water bath and aliquots were taken after 0, 1, 3, 5 and 10 min of sonication. Ultrasonic treatment improved protein extraction from almonds, especially those roasted at 260 and 400 °C. The temperature of the extraction buffer proved to be important, with higher yields at 60 and 70 °C. Use of a higher temperature, with sonication for 5–10 min, increased the amount of protein extracted with PBST (from 141% to 174% for almonds roasted at 260 °C and 287% to 333% for almonds roasted at 400 °C). The BCA assay was used to measure the amount of soluble almond protein. Improved extraction of almond proteins from processed samples is presented.
Undesirable Properties of Regressed Least Squares Prediction of Breeding Values

Abstract Regressed least squares is defined, precautions required in computing it are described, the variances of errors of prediction are stated, and some deficiencies of the methods are reported. These deficiencies are (i) predictors are not invariant, (ii) variances of prediction errors are not minimum, (iii) animals with no records (or with no progeny in progeny testing) cannot be evaluated, and (iv) computations are more difficult than those for the mixed model solution for best linear unbiased prediction. A modification of regressed least squares that does yield best linear unbiased prediction is described, but it is more difficult computationally than the mixed model solution.
Condensation of o-phenylenediamine with trans-dibenzoylethylene synthesis of 2, 5-diphenyl-1, 6-dihydro-1, 6-benzodiazocine

Beim Erhitzen von o-Phenylendiamin (I) mit Dibenzoylathylen (II) in siedender Essigsaure bildet sich ein Gemisch der Verbindungen (III)-(VII), wahrend in siedendem Athanol in Gegenwart von 5% Essigsaure nur das Phenylchinoxalin (VI) in 90%iger Ausbeute erhalten wird.
CONGRUENCES MODULO POWERS OF 2 FOR THE SIGNATURE OF COMPLETE INTERSECTIONS

IN this note we give formulas for the signature of complete intersections modulo certain powers of 2. Our method also yields relations modulo powers of 2 on the signature of ramified covers. We conclude with a formula for the behavior under ramified cyclic covers of Rokhlin's invariant for characteristic surfaces in a 4-manifold.
Influence of Cover Crops and Inorganic Nitrogen Fertilization on Tomato and Snap Bean Production and Soil Nitrate Distribution

ABSTRACT Commercial vegetable production depends almost solely on inorganic fertilizers. In an era of environmental sensitivity, enrichment of soils with green manures and cover crops may reduce the dependence on these fertilizers while maintaining and enhancing crop yields. The objectives of this research were to determine (1) if supplemental nitrogen (N) at 60 or 120 kg · ha−1 following winter cover crops of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) or crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) affect yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) grown in rotation; and (2) the distribution and retention of soil nitrates in the soil profile as affected by N fertilization and cover cropping. ‘Mountain Pride’ fresh market tomato and ‘Strike’ snap bean were grown in rotation for four years. Clover and wheat cover crops increased total marketable yield of ‘Mountain Pride’ tomato in one out of four years. Total marketable tomato yield increased as fertilizer N increased to 60 kg · ha−...
Pyruvate oxidation by Methanococcus spp.

In the absence of H2, Methanococcus spp. utilized pyruvate as an electron donor for methanogenesis. For Methanococcus voltae A3, Methanococcus maripaludis JJ1, and Methanococcus vannielii, typical rates of pyruvate-dependent methanogenesis were 3.4, 2.8, and 3.9 nmol min-1 mg-1 cell dry wt, respectively. These rates were 1–4% of the rates of H2-dependent methanogenesis. For M. voltae, the concentration of pyruvate required for one-half the maximum rate of methanogenesis was 7 mM, and pyruvate-dependent methanogenesis was linear for 3 days. Radiolabeled acetate was formed from [3-14C]pyruvate, and the stoichiometry of pyruvate consumed per acetate produced was 1.12±0.27. The stoichiometry of pyruvate consumed per CH4 produced was 3.64±0.34. These values are close to the expected values of 1 acetate and 4 CH4. Although 10–30% of total cell carbon could be obtained from exogenous pyruvate during growth with H2, pyruvate did not replace the nutritional requirement for acetate in Methanococcus voltae A3 or two acetate auxotrophs of Methanococcus maripaludis, JJ6 and JJ7. These results suggest that pyruvate was not oxidized in the presence of H2. The inability to oxidize pyruvate during H2-dependent methanogenesis would prevent a futile cycle of pyruvate oxidation and biosynthesis during autotrophic growth.
Compatibility operators for degenerate elliptic equations on the ball and Heisenberg group

On considere des operateurs elliptiques degeneres d'ordre 2 qui sont des variantes de l'operateur de Laplace-Beltrami pour la metrique de Bergman
Effect of temperature on rumpling and thermally grown oxide stress in an EB-PVD thermal barrier coating

One hour thermal cyclic tests were conducted on EB-PVD 7YSZ/ (Ni,Pt)Al/ CMSX-4 TBCs at three temperatures (1151 °C, 1121 °C and 1100 °C). Stress in the thermally grown oxide was measured using a non-destructive optical method photoluminescence piezospectroscopy (PLPS). The progression of damage was also documented using destructive sectioning and SEM characterization. Progressive rumpling of the bond coat was observed and quantified while simultaneously non-destructive measurements of the stress in the thermally grown oxide were made. Consistent with previous experiments, the cyclic life decreased and the rumpling rate increased with increasing temperature. The rumpling increased monotonically with cycling while the measured TGO stress decreased monotonically. Contrary to some experiments and theory, power spectra of the evolving bond coat surface did not show a dominate wavelength. The rumpling amplitude was found to be a single valued function of TGO thickness, independent of temperature and an associated six-fold variation in rumpling rate. The experimental results reinforce a connection between the observed failure due to rumpling and the decrease in stress measured non-destructively, providing a strong basis for the use of PLPS measurements to predict remaining life in such systems.
Noble gases in lava rock from Mount Capulin, New Mexico

Noble gases in lava rocks from Mount Capulin crater cone contain ‘parentless’ 40Ar and xenon trapped from the hot magma. The isotopic composition of the xenon is consistent with a mixture of 90% atmospheric and 10% solar xenon, but no radiogenic 129Xe has been observed. These results do not support an earlier suggestion that radiogenic 129Xe, found in CO2 gas from this region of New Mexico, had been transported in hot magmas.
DENTAL ASPECTS OF THE PROBLEMS, CARE, AND TREATMENT OF THE IRRADIATED ORAL CANCER PATIENT.

The dentist’s role in treating the irradiated oral cancer patient is becoming increasingly important as the significance of poor oral hygiene and its relation to radionecrosis is realized. In successfully treating the patient with oral cancer, more emphasis needs to be placed on decreasing the morbidity and discomfort resulting from radiotherapy.
Plastic stress/strain-rate/temperature relations in H.C.P. Ag-Al under impact loading

Abstract The dynamic behaviour of single crystals of Ag 2 Al was investigated at strain rates from 10 −4 to 10 5 per sec. Basal slip was found to be almost strain-rate insensitive; the yield stress was found to increase slightly with an increase in temperature. This behaviour is explained in terms of Suzuki locking. In contrast, prismatic slip was found to be very strain rate sensitive. At high temperatures and low strain rates a diffusion controlled deformation mechanism is operative which is suppressed at high strain rates giving an increase in yield strength of a factor of 30. The prismatic slip behaviour at low temperatures is explained in terms of the Peierls mechanism of kink pair formation. The resolved shear stress for {1012} twinning as a function of temperature and strain rate was also determined. Finally, the theory of plastic wave propagation is re-examined in the light of deformation rate determining dislocation mechanisms.
Realities of War: global development, growing destructiveness and the coming of a new Dark Age?

Abstract This contribution traces the connection between theories about the utility of violence as a tool of development and practical efforts to craft policies based on such beliefs. The basic finding is that the use of force in the name of societal development (eg the Bush Doctrine of waging war to effect ‘regime change’) has proven problematic. Indeed, viewed from the perspective of the past two centuries, such uses of force have often turned out to be profoundly ‘anti-developmental’. In particular, there are some troubling shifts in conflict, apparent since the late 19th century, but which have accelerated in recent decades. First, major warfare has migrated from the developed to the developing world. Second, there is a clearly observable growth trend towards ‘big kill’ wars in which at least one million people die (often in small nation-states where significant percentages of the population are killed). More, and more deadly, wars are thus occurring amid those least able to cope with conflict, provid...
Northeast Asia's Stunted Regionalism: Bilateral Distrust in the Shadow of Globalization

1. Introduction: the challenge of the NEA region 2. Exiting the 1980s: cold war logic and national aspirations 3. 1991-3: border fever and cross-border duplicity 4. 1994-6: civilization bridges and historical distrust 5. 1997-8: strategic partnerships and national rivalries 6. 1999-2000: sunshine policies and security dilemmas 7. 2001-3: unilateralism and irrepressible regionalism 8. Conclusion: lessons for constructing regionalism in NEA.
Image synthesis methodology for algorithm testing and vision system design

Although it is well-recognized and widely accepted that vision adds considerable flexibility, and it has also been shown that numerical simulation can aid in image understanding and vision system design (significantly reducing the engineering time to design and implement such systems), the utilization of image synthesis as an aid in algorithm and system design still remains a largely underexplored area. In machine vision applications, accuracy of the image generally outweighs image appearance. Unfortunately, the focus of most commercially available simulation methods is on photorealistic image synthesis; this is insufficient to design vision systems or evaluate and compare image-processing algorithms for part-presentation tasks: physically accurate, rather than photo-realistic, synthesis methods are necessary to sufficiently simulate captured image grey-scale values. This paper presents a methodology to generate physically accurate synthetic images efficiently in order to provide an accurate, flexible and practical means of evaluating the performance of image-processing algorithms for numerous hardware/software configuration combinations and a wide range of parts. While the synthesis methodology cannot fully compensate for the real environment, it can be used efficiently to study the effects of vision system design parameters on image accuracy. This provides an insight into the efficacy of the design and the ability of suggested image-processing algorithms to perform adequately for specific applications; furthermore, it may provide a means for correcting apparent errors in image-processing results.
Current trends in nanobiosensor technology

The development of tools and processes used to fabricate, measure, and image nanoscale objects has lead to a wide range of work devoted to producing sensors that interact with extremely small numbers (or an extremely small concentration) of analyte molecules. These advances are particularly exciting in the context of biosensing, where the demands for low concentration detection and high specificity are great. Nanoscale biosensors, or nanobiosensors, provide researchers with an unprecedented level of sensitivity, often to the single molecule level. The use of biomolecule-functionalized surfaces can dramatically boost the specificity of the detection system, but can also yield reproducibility problems and increased complexity. Several nanobiosensor architectures based on mechanical devices, optical resonators, functionalized nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes, and nanofibers have been demonstrated in the lab. As nanobiosensor technology becomes more refined and reliable, it is likely it will eventually make its way from the lab to the clinic, where future lab-on-a-chip devices incorporating an array of nanobiosensors could be used for rapid screening of a wide variety of analytes at low cost using small samples of patient material. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2011 3 229–246 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.136 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website
M ? F Interactions and Heterobimetallics: Furthering the Understanding of Heterobimetallic Stabilization

Heterobimetallic complexes containing alkali, alkaline-earth, and divalent europium metals utilizing the perfluoro-tert-butoxide (PFTB) ligand following the general formula, [AM(PFTB)3(co-ligand)x] (A=Na, K; M=Mg, Sr, Ba, Eu; co-ligand=THF, toluene), have been isolated. These compounds sublime at low temperatures with low residual weight indicating their potential as metal-organic chemical-vapor deposition (MOCVD) precursors. The complexes have unique molecular architectures that are strongly influenced by M-F interactions, as was verified in the solid state by using X-ray crystallography. The significance of these interactions were further reinforced by bond-valence sums analysis and (19) F VT-NMR spectroscopy, in which rotational energies of 18.75 and 19.08 kcal mol(-1) were measured.
Influence Of Vocabulary Training On Speech-Sound Discrimination Test Results

A standardized test of auditory discrimination was administered on two occasions to two groups of equated children. The test procedure recommended in the manual was utilized on both occasions in testing the control group and for the first session administered to the experimental group. The experimental group, however, received formal picture-word association of training consisting of all items appearing in the test prior to the second test administration. Results indicated a significant reduction in errors on the second test administration for the experimental group while the control group failed to demonstrate a significant decrease.
Somatic cell mapping of conglutinin (CGN1) to cattle syntenic group U29 and fluorescence in situ localization to Chromosome 28

A 260-bp genomic PstI fragment, which encodes a portion of the carbohydrate recognition domain, was used along with hybrid somatic cells to map the conglutinin gene (CGN1) to domestic cow (Bos taurus) syntenic group U29. In turn, a cosmid containing the entire bovine CGN1 was used with fluorescence in situ hybridization to sublocalize this gene to cattle chromosome (Chr) (BTA) 28 band 18. Since BTA 28 and several of the other small acrocentric autosomes of cattle are difficult to discriminate, we have also chromosomally sublocalized CGN1 to the p arm of the lone biarmed autosome of the gaur (Bos gaurus). The use of the gaur 2/28 Robertsonian as a marker chromosome and our assignment of CGN1 to BTA 28 should help resolve some of the nomenclatural questions involving this cattle chromosome.
In situ formation of metal-ceramic microstructures, including metal-ceramic composites, using reduction reactions

Abstract Partial reduction reactions were used to form a metallic phase either around or inside oxide grains in polycrystals in the FeMnO system. By suitable choice of oxide composition, partial pressure of oxygen, annealing time and temperature, it is possible to control the nucleation and growth of the metallic phase to produce a wide range of metal-ceramic microstructures. These include ceramic grains with a thin layer of metallic phase at their boundaries; ceramic grains with a thick layer of metallic phase at their boundaries —essentially, a metal-ceramic composite; and ceramic grains containing a fine distribution of metal particles—essentially, a ductile phase toughened ceramic. The presence of the metallic phase increases the fracture toughness of all the metal-ceramic microstructures with respect to that of the pure ceramic, with the largest increase observed for the metal-ceramic composite. It is believed that the principles established by studying the FeMnO system can be used on more practical mixed oxide systems to produce metal-ceramic microstructures, which in some cases are unique, and in particular, if the starting oxide material is in the form of plate- or rod-shaped crystals, to produce metal-ceramic composites in situ.
A random protein–creatinine ratio accurately predicts baseline proteinuria in early pregnancy

AbstractObjective: Data surrounding the use of a random urine protein:creatinine ratio (PCR) in the diagnosis of preeclampsia is conflicting. We sought to determine whether PCR in early pregnancy can replace the 24-hour urine collection as the primary screening test in patients at risk for baseline proteinuria.Methods: Women requiring a baseline evaluation for proteinuria supplied a urine sample the morning after their 24-hour collection. The PCR was analyzed as a predictor of significant proteinuria (≥150 mg). A regression equation to estimate the 24-hour protein value from the PCR was then developed.Results: Sixty of 135 subjects enrolled completed the study. The median 24-hour urine protein and PCR were 90 mg (IQR: 50–145) and 0.063 (IQR: 0.039–0.083), respectively. Fifteen patients (25%) had significant proteinuria. PCR was strongly correlated with the 24-hour protein value (r = 0.99, p < 0.001) and highly predictive of significant proteinuria (AUC = 0.86). A PCR cut-point of 0.079 yielded a sensitivi...
The ABCs for pre-service teacher cultural competency development

In an effort to combine pre‐service teachers' self‐reflection with their field experiences to enhance their cultural competency, this study adopted Schmidt's ABC's (Autobiography, Biography, and Cross‐cultural Comparison) Model in two courses in a pre‐service teacher education program. Through group comparisons, this study measured the impact that self‐reflection combining autobiography, field experiences involving the writing of student biographies, and field‐based reflection focused on conducting cross‐cultural comparisons had on the development of pre‐service teachers' cultural competency. The results of the study illustrated the discomforts pre‐service teachers experience in working with diverse student populations and documented the impact of the ABC's model on participants' cultural awareness development.
Interacting effects of light, temperature, and nutrients on C-14 uptake of oscillatoria rubescens de candolle

The rate of C14O2 uptake in a bacterized isolate of Oscillatoria rubescens indicates that within the ranges studied temperature caused the greatest variation followed by light intensity and nutrient concentration. The variation within interaction effects of light, temperature, and nutrients was higher than that within any other combination of interactions. High temperatures (25°C) shifted the light optimum of O. rubescens growing in low to moderate nutrient levels from 1950 lux to 800 lux.
Ultrafast relaxation dynamics of photoexcited carriers in GaAs and related compounds

The femtosecond intraband relaxation of hot carriers in GaAs, Al0.32Ga0.68As, and the multiple-quantum-well structure is studied using the equal-pulse optical-correlation technique. An overview of the experimental application of this technique to semiconductors is presented. A detailed theoretical analysis of the coherent-artifact contribution to the transmission-correlation peak in the geometry of parallel copropagating beams and a calculation of the saturable-absorption symmetry coefficients for GaAs are given. The relaxation time of carriers from their initially excited states was measured to be in the range 50–100 fsec for the materials studied. The interpretation of the measured relaxation time in terms of electron and hole response functions is discussed. The relevant scattering processes and rates and the corresponding relaxation times calculated from these rates are given.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on Microscale Bending of Stainless Steel With Pulsed Laser

Laser forming or laser bending is a newly developed, flexible technique which modifies the curvature of sheet metal by thermal residual stresses instead of external forces. The process is influenced by many parameters such as laser parameters, material properties, and target dimensions. In this work, a pulsed Nd. YLF laser was used as the energy source. The laser beam was focused into a line shape irradiating on the stainless steel specimen to induce bending. The bending angle was measured at various processing conditions. A finite element analysis was performed with the use of a two-dimensional plane strain model to calculate the thermoelastoplastic deformation process. Experimental measurements and computational results were in good agreement. Numerical sensitivity studies were performed to evaluate the effects of the unavailable material property data at high temperature. It was found that both optical reflectivity and thermal expansion coefficient influenced the bending angle significantly, while other extrapolated material properties at high temperature yielded acceptable results.
TAC: Thresholding active contours

In this paper, we describe a region-based active contour technique to perform image segmentation. We propose an energy functional that realizes an explicit trade-off between the (current) image segmentation obtained from a curve and the (implied) segmentation obtained from dynamically thresholding the image. In contrast with standard region-based techniques, the resulting variational approach bypasses the need to fit (a priori chosen) statistical models to the object and the background. Our technique performs segmentation based on geometric considerations of the image and contour, instead of statistical ones. The resulting flow leads to very reasonable segmentations as shown by several illustrative examples.