cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Value of Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies in Scleritis Associated with Wegener's Granulomatosis

Serum antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) are a sensitive and specific marker for generalized Wegener's granulomatosis. However, ANCA sensitivity and specificity in identifying patients in whom ophthalmic signs constitute the presenting or only definitive manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis have not been tested. The authors report on 7 patients in whom scleritis was the initial manifestation leading to the diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis. Six had the limited form of Wegener's granulomatosis. Results of serum ANCA tests were positive in all these patients. In contrast, the serum ANCA was negative in 54 patients with ocular inflammation due to other disorders; 16 of these patients had scleritis. Serial ANCA titers reverted to normal in only two of the four patients with Wegener's granulomatosis who attained clinical remission. One of the patients who did not revert to normal experienced relapse 2 months after discontinuation of therapy. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies appear to be both sensitive and specific for Wegener's granulomatosis-associated scleritis, and testing is useful in the evaluation of patients with scleritis.
The low-rate growth of particulate Fe on planar alumina supports

Abstract The preparation and analysis of UHV-deposited Fe particles of varying size on TEM-transparent supports of amorphous and single crystal alumina is described. The effects of substrate crystallinity and stoichiometry and of Fe source design on the cleanliness and dispersion of the Fe particles were studied. The surface analytical techniques employed included AES, ELS, and LEED. The size and number density of the Fe particles were directly determined by post-deposition TEM.
Spatial Patterns of Channel Instability Along an Ozark River, Southwest Missouri

In the Ozark Highlands of Missouri, unstable river reaches that display rapid planform change are described as active reaches. While active reaches can be part of the natural morphodynamic regime, accelerated gravel bar deposition and bank erosion have been linked to historical and recent anthropogenic activities. Relationships between geomorphic controls and specific forms of channel instability are poorly understood in the Ozarks. The objectives of this research were to (1) develop an active reach classification scheme that provides an objective means of identifying and evaluating longitudinal patterns of instability in this and other Ozark rivers, (2) identify active reaches and different forms of instability along 80 km of the Finley River in southwest Missouri, and (3) investigate physical controls on active reaches. Historical aerial photographs and geographic information system (GIS) analysis showed that active reaches occur along 21% of the length of the main stem, preferentially in valleys with c...
A novel inexpensive device for the electrochemical generation of metallic emitters for field desorption

Details for the construction of a novel, inexpensive device for the electrochemical generation of metallic emitters for field desorption mass spectrometry are described. Use of the device for the generation of cobalt and nickel emitters is demonstrated.
Tight-binding calculation of Ti-Rh-type phase diagram.

Tight-binding electronic band-structure calculations were combined with a free-energy expression from a statistical mechanical method called the cluster-variation method. The effective pair interactions used in the cluster-variation calculation were evaluated by the generalized perturbation method. Only d orbitals were included and the numbers of d electrons per atom were taken to be three for the pure A element and eight for the pure B. A phase diagram was constructed incorporating, for the first time, both fcc and bcc lattices and their simple-ordered superstructures. The calculated diagram agreed reasonably well with those determined empirically for Ti-Rh or Ti-Ir.
Radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathways guided by the location of the ligament of Marshall.

Introduction: In humans, complex muscle connections are present near the junction between the coronary sinus (CS) and the ligament of Marshall. We hypothesize that these complex muscle connections participate in accessory pathway conduction. Methods and Results: Electrophysiologic studies and radiofrequency ablation were performed in four patients with refractory AV reciprocating tachycardia. Case 1 was a 19-year-old male. Marshall bundle potentials were recorded by a catheter in the vein of Marshall. Radiofrequency energy application from that catheter resulted in successful ablation. Case 2 was a 43-year-old male who had undergone two unsuccessful radiofrequency ablation procedures of a left free-wall accessory pathway by conventional techniques. Coronary sinus electrography during tachycardia and ventricular pacing showed a long V-A interval. Radiofrequency energy application directed toward the ligament of Marshall eliminated the pathway conduction. Case 3 was a 17-year-old male who had undergone three unsuccessful ablation procedures. Radiofrequency energy application directed toward the stump of the vein of Marshall successfully eliminated the pathway conduction. Case 4 was a 20-year-old female who underwent one unsuccessful ablation procedure. Successful ablation was achieved in the left atrial free wall, approximately 1 cm above the AV annulus, at a location near the ligament of Marshall. Conclusion: We report four patients in whom successful accessory pathway ablation was achieved by targeting the ligament of Marshall. These findings suggest that the complex muscle connections among the coronary sinus, ligament of Marshall, and left atrium is important in accessory pathway conduction and maintenance of circus movement tachycardia in these patients.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. 616-620, June 2003)
A Brief Report of the Diagnostic Accuracy of Oral Reading Fluency and Reading Inventory Levels for Reading Failure Risk Among Second- and Third-Grade Students

The availability of psychometrically sound and usable universal screeners is a key component to successful early identification within a response-to-intervention model. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of oral reading fluency (ORF) and an informal reading inventory for identifying students considered at risk for failing a district-wide assessment. Participants included 968 students in 2nd and 3rd grade in a rural elementary school district in Minnesota. Results showed significant correlations between ORF and informal reading inventory data and between each potential screener and the criterion measure at 2nd and 3rd grades. However, ORF demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy for correctly identifying at-risk students and resulted in 80% correct classification compared to 54% for the reading inventory data. We discuss implications for practice and directions for future research.
Generation of Signaling Specificity in Arabidopsis by Spatially Restricted Buffering of Ligand–Receptor Interactions

Core signaling pathways function in multiple programs during multicellular development. The mechanisms that compartmentalize pathway function or confer process specificity, however, remain largely unknown. In Arabidopsis thaliana, ERECTA (ER) family receptors have major roles in many growth and cell fate decisions. The ER family acts with receptor TOO MANY MOUTHS (TMM) and several ligands of the EPIDERMAL PATTERNING FACTOR LIKE (EPFL) family, which play distinct yet overlapping roles in patterning of epidermal stomata. Here, our examination of EPFL genes EPFL6/CHALLAH (CHAL), EPFL5/CHALLAH-LIKE1, and EPFL4/CHALLAH-LIKE2 (CLL2) reveals that this family may mediate additional ER-dependent processes. chal cll2 mutants display growth phenotypes characteristic of er mutants, and genetic interactions are consistent with CHAL family molecules acting as ER family ligands. We propose that different classes of EPFL genes regulate different aspects of ER family function and introduce a TMM-based discriminatory mechanism that permits simultaneous, yet compartmentalized and distinct, function of the ER family receptors in growth and epidermal patterning.
A comparison between flow-through and flow-by porous electrodes for redox energy storage

Abstract An economic comparison is made between electrode configurations for flow redox battery applications: (i) the flow-through configuration (current parallel to the fluid flow) and (ii) the flow-by configuration (current perpendicular to the fluid flow). Steady-state computer models are developed for each electrode system. These models are used to predict current density, cell voltage, and power density over a complete cycle (charge and discharge). The economic comparison is made by optimizing each configuration with respect to an objective function appropriate for redox battery applications. Only the variable costs are considered. The results of the optimization show that the flowbby configuration is superior. The flow-through configuration not only yields a lower return on investment, but it is impractical due to a requirement of extremely low flow rates (Re
Energy Based Comparison of Test and Analysis Response in the Frequency Domain

Accepted modal based techniques for comparing finite element model and test data for test/analysis correlation and subsequent model updating are impossible to use in the high modal density midfrequency regime. A new approach is presented for comparing test and analysis representations using frequency-based response data instead of modal parameters. The new method uses frequency band averaging of the output power spectral densities with the central frequency of the band running over the complete frequency range of interest. The result of this computation can be interpreted in several different ways but the immediate physical connection is that it produces the mean-square response, or energy, of the system to random input limited to the averaging frequency band. The averaging process is consistent with the averaging done in statistical energy analysis for stochastic systems. The averaged response curves can be compared on a pointwise basis, or they can be compared within a running frequency band.
The role of sex and family variables in burnout

Two survey studies were conducted to assess the relationship of demographic variables to the experience of job burnout. Contrary to earlier hypotheses that women are more vulnerable to this form of job stress, the results show that women do slightly better than men. However, this difference is rather small, which suggests that the sex of the employee is not a major factor in burnout. Other results show that employees who were married or who had children experienced less burnout. Job category was also an important predictor. The findings are discussed in terms of sex-role socialization, sex-typed occupations, and social support systems.
A comparison of perspectives on breastfeeding between two generations of black American women.

PURPOSE To determine differences in breastfeeding perspectives between two generations of black American women with and without access to governmental food assistance programs (i.e., WIC). DATA SOURCES Descriptive, comparative study of a convenience sample of 118 black American women in their childbearing years and beyond conducted in a primary rural health care clinic serving an indigent population. CONCLUSIONS A significant difference was found between breastfeeding perceptions and rate among younger black American women on WIC program and their mothers without access to these programs. The availability of free formula through WIC programs has partially influ-enced the rate of breastfeeding among the young black American women. The other sig-nificant influencing factor was public embarrassment at breastfeeding. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE An extensive educational campaign is needed in order to influence the public's perceptions of breastfeeding as an embarrassment. The success of programs such as WIC must be measured beyond the first six months of an infant's life.
Effect of Ions upon the Production of Vitamins in the Yeast Cells

IN the course of an investigation of the nutritional requirements of insects in mineral elements, we were confronted with a peculiar instance of an effect exerted by salt ions upon the production of one of the vitamins. The wax moth Galleria melonella can be reared on a medium composed of one part of yeast and two parts of wax. However, if in place of commercial bakers' yeast, yeast grown in the laboratory be used, the result will depend upon the composition of the culture medium.
High Voltage SPT Performance

A 2.3 kW stationary plasma thruster designed to operate at high voltage was tested at discharge voltages between 300 and 1250 V. Discharge specific impulses between 1600 and 3700 sec were demonstrated with thrust between 40 and 145 mN. Test data indicated that discharge voltage can be optimized for maximum discharge efficiency. The optimum discharge voltage was between 500 and 700 V for the various anode mass flow rates considered. The effect of operating voltage on optimal magnet field strength was investigated. The effect of cathode flow rate on thruster efficiency was considered for an 800 V discharge.
New clinically relevant sheep model of severe respiratory failure secondary to combined smoke inhalation/cutaneous flame burn injury.

OBJECTIVES To develop a predictable, dose-dependent, clinically relevant model of severe respiratory failure associated with a 40% total body surface area, full-thickness (third-degree) cutaneous flame burn and smoke inhalation injury in adult sheep. DESIGN Model development. SETTING Research laboratory. SUBJECTS Adult female sheep (n = 22). INTERVENTIONS Animals were divided into three groups, determined by the number of smoke breaths administered (24, 36, 48) for a graded inhalation injury. The smoke was insufflated into a tracheostomy with a modified bee smoker at airway temperatures 60 mm Hg and PaCO2 <40 mm Hg. Arterial blood gases and ventilator settings were monitored every 6 hrs postinjury for up to 7 days. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS All animals survived the induction of injury. In the 24 smoke breath/40% total body surface area burn (24/40) group, PaO2/F(IO2) never decreased below 300, and peak inspiratory pressure was consistently <14 cm H2O with normal arterial blood gases throughout the observation period. With 36 smoke breaths/40% total body surface area burn (36/40) (n = 7), all animals had PaO2/F(IO2) of <200 and peak inspiratory pressure of 26 cm H2O within 40-48 hrs, as 30% died during the study period. With 48 smoke breaths/40% total body surface area burn (48/40) (n = 12), all animals developed respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in 24-30 hrs, but none survived the experimental period. CONCLUSIONS Development of RDS by smoke and cutaneous flame bum injury depends on smoke inhalation dose. A combination of 36 breaths of smoke and a 40% total body surface area (third-degree) cutaneous flame burn injury can induce severe RDS (PaO2/F(IO2) <200) within 40-48 hrs to allow evaluation of various treatment modalities of RDS.
Left in the Dust: Negotiating Environmental Illness in the Aftermath of 9/11

The unprecedented toxic release in lower Manhattan on September 11, 2001 created one of the worst environmental disasters in US history, followed by a contentious and ongoing battle over the existence, etiology, and legitimation of World Trade Center-related illness. In this paper, I explore the enactment of epistemic authority by a complex array of stakeholders--government officials, scientists, physicians, environmentalists, advocates, journalists, and politicians--who have woven medical-scientific knowledge into their competing agendas and platforms. Despite the scientific validation of environmental dangers, the clinical documentation of illness and the epidemiological substantiation of links between environmental exposure and illness onset, the political-economic interests of federal, state, and local bodies have often been privileged over the protection of public health. 9/11 illness is a "contested illness" enmeshed in politically charged disputes regarding the relationship of environmental toxins to disease.
Am I my brother’s keeper? Grounding and motivating an ethos of social responsibility in a free society

A free society requires a citizenry that is capable of taking personal responsibility for bettering their lot, and voluntarily promoting and protecting public goods such as education, health, public order, peace, and justice. Although the law backed by force can have some success at compelling people to make contributions to the public exchequer, refrain from criminal activity, honor legal contracts, and so on, an economically and politically free society cannot rely exclusively on the threat of coercion to induce in citizens a sense of social responsibility. On the contrary, a free society depends on a well‐entrenched sense of responsibility that is internalized and actualized by citizens in their everyday lives. But any realistic attempt to frame an ideal of social responsibility must confront two serious challenges presented by the complexity and scale of modern societies, namely the challenge of knowing the content of our responsibilities and the challenge of finding the motivation to discharge them. ...
The effect of correlation energy /mp2/ on computed vibrational frequencies /

The IR frequencies of cyclopropene and methylenecyclopropene were computed with inclusion of correlation (MP2/6-31G*). These along with those of ethylene obtained earlier by Pople were compared with SCF results (DZ + P). It was found that the MP2 frequencies agreed better with experiment, but that the order of the bands remained the same as those computed without correlation.
Cortical evoked potentials on stimulation of pudendal nerve in women

Somatosensory evoked potentials were recorded in five normal women on percutaneous stimulation of the pudendal nerve. A consistent response was obtained over the scalp 2 cm behind the Cz electroencephalographic recording site. The latency of onset of this response had a mean value of 33 msec, and the mean latency of the first positive peak was 39.6 msec. This test has potential clinical value in the evaluation of patients with bowel, bladder, or sexual dysfunction when a neurologic causation is suspected.
Sputter‐produced plasma as a measure of satellite surface composition: The CASSINI mission

Measurements of the co-orbiting neutral cloud or the plasma produced by sputtering of the icy Saturnian satellites can be used to determine the relative abundance of a minority surface species which would be difficult to determine from reflectance spectra. This is due to the fact that the sputter source rates, hence the plasma supply rates, are directly proportional to the bulk concentrations of mixed solids or clathrates, although the surface grains may be depleted in the most volatile species.
THE USE OF PATHOS IN CHARITY LETTERS: SOME NOTES TOWARD A THEORY AND ANALYSIS

Americans contribute $240 billion dollars to charities each year, raised in part by writing letters to potential donors. While it is debatable what the reasons are for donors to give so much money, most donors seem to be moved to contribute by pathos, particularly pity. The concept of pathos as a rhetorical appeal has become more complex over the years, growing from a simple strategy to a complicated set of parameters requiring careful delineation. Beginning with the Greeks, particularly Aristotle, pathos was defined with greater clarity (especially the concept of enargia), with Aristotle's formal definitions of the emotions, and with the use of an image upon which to direct the audience's pity. Cicero adds to the theory by calling for the use of pathos in the peroration and reinforcing Aristotle's emphasis on careful audience analysis. St. Augustine and those who follow, including Renaissance, 18th-century rhetoricians, and 20th-century scholars like Kenneth Burke, argue that style can also be an effecti...
SELECT NUTRIENT COMPARISON OF IMITATION SHELLFISH WITH REAL SHELLFISH

Select nutrients of three real shellfish, three imitation surimi based shellfish, and two imitation soy based shellfish were measured by gas chromatography, high pressure liquid chromatography and AOAC methods. The lipid was extracted, methylated and analyzed on a wide bore capillary column with temperature programming to separate the fatty acid methyl esters. Carbohydrates were analyzed isocratically by high performance liquid chromatography on a polar column. Sodium and potassium were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. AOAC methods were used to determine percent moisture, protein, and fat. Analysis of variance for the select nutrients showed significant differences among the imitation and real shellfish products (P 0.05) for sodium, potassium, carbohydrate, moisture, fat and protein content. Significant differences were also present in the fatty acid methyl ester analysis. The data suggested that the imitation shellfish products differed significantly in nutrient content from the corresponding real shellfish.
The Postpartum Follow-up Nurse Clinician

The family unit is especially vulnerable during the transition to parenthood in the fourth trimester. The extension of nursing practice into this trimester, in the role of postpartum follow-up clinician, would foster adaptive outcomes for mothers, infants, and families. A theoretical framework for the postpartum follow-up clinician role, grounded in crisis theory and including data documenting common stressors of fourth trimester mothers, is presented.
A novel N-halamine acrylamide monomer and its copolymers for antimicrobial coatings

Abstract A new N-halamine acrylamide monomer having 31 wt.% chlorine loading capability was synthesized and then copolymerized with a tethering siloxane monomer in several feed ratios. The resulting copolymers were coated onto cotton fabric and rendered biocidal upon treatment with 1% household bleach. The halogenated coated fabrics provided a total of 8-logs inactivation of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria within 5 min of contact time. The equimolar and siloxane-rich copolymers were noticeably stable on cotton fabric toward washing cycles, as only 10% of the copolymers were hydrolyzed from the cotton surface after the equivalent of 50 machine washes. The halogenated coated fabrics lost about half of the chlorine slowly within 24 h under UVA light irradiation with some decomposition observed.
Apparent molar volumes and apparent molar heat capacities of aqueous magnesium nitrate, strontium nitrate, and manganese nitrate at temperatures from 278.15 K to 393.15 K and at the pressure 0.35 MPa

Abstract Apparent molar volumes Vϕ and apparent molar heat capacities Cp,ϕ were determined at the pressure 0.35 MPa for aqueous solutions of magnesium nitrate Mg(NO3)2 at molalities m = (0.02 to 1.0) mol · kg−1, strontium nitrate Sr(NO3)2 at m = (0.05 to 3.0) mol · kg−1, and manganese nitrate Mn(NO3)2 at m = (0.01 to 0.5) mol · kg−1. Our Vϕ values were calculated from solution densities obtained at T = (278.15 to 368.15) K using a vibrating-tube densimeter, and our Cp,ϕ values were calculated from solution heat capacities obtained at T = (278.15 to 393.15) K using a twin fixed-cell, differential, temperature-scanning calorimeter. Empirical functions of m and T were fitted to our results, and standard state partial molar volumes and heat capacities were obtained over the ranges of T investigated.
Improved stability in Al2O3CdSe thin-film transistors

Abstract AlAl 2 O 3 CdSe thin-film transistors have been fabricated that show significant improvement in electrical stability over previous devices reported. This improvement is shown to be due to the use of Al 2 O 3 formed by plasma-anodization in a d.c. O 2 glow discharge. The use of this oxide as a gate insulator results in a two-orders-of-magnitude reduction in surface state density at the Al 2 O 3 CdSe improvement in electrical stability. Interface state densities are typically found to be less than 5 × 10 10 states/cm 2 - eV . Transistors using Al 2 O 3 have been bias-temperature tested at room temperature and up to 75°C. No shift in threshold voltage is presently observed at 75°C with gate oxide fields of 1 × 10 6 V / cm . The use of Al 2 O 3 , while resulting in improved electrical stability, has not resulted in any loss of device performance. Thin-film transistors with gain-bandwidth product of 20 MHz and gate breakdown strengths of 7 × 10 6 V/cm are obtainable. Gate threshold voltages are typically 0−0.5 V. The effects of processing steps and the reproducibility of the transistors fabrication procedure have been studied. Through the use of post-deposition hydrogen annealing, excellent reproducibility in device characteristics has been achieved. Variations in transistor characteristics across a substrate are typically less than 10 per cent, while variation from substrate to substrate is also significantly reduced. The reduction is attributed to the low interface state density and the effects of annealing on oxide charge and CdSe resistivity.
Accumulation of potassium and sodium by barley roots in a k-na replacement series

Excised roots of barley (Hordeum vulgare, var. Campana) were incubated for 24 hr in solutions containing constant total concentrations of KCl and NaCl but in which the mole fractions of K and Na were varied in replacement series. In solutions containing 1, 10, or 50 mm concentrations of K(+) plus Na(+), total cation accumulation was dependent upon the total salt concentration but was relatively independent of the mole fractions of K(+) and Na(+). These results imply that accumulation of K(+) and Na(+) was limited by a common factor. In solutions containing 0.01 mm K(+) plus Na(+) there was a strong preference for K(+) over Na(+) and the sum of K(+) and Na(+) accumulation increased with increasing K(+) concentration.In the replacement series utilizing 0.1 mm K(+) plus Na(+), K(+) accumulation reached a peak at solution concentrations of 0.04 mm K(+) and 0.06 mm Na(+). Potassium accumulation then decreased as Na(+) was further replaced by K(+) to concentrations of 0.06 mm K(+) and 0.04 mm Na(+). Potassium accumulation again increased with additional replacement of Na(+) by K(+).
The evolution of Eos

As you hold in your hands, or perhaps read on a screen, the first 2007 issue of Eos, I would like to tell you a bit about how this, AGU's first publication, got to be what it is today. It is and has always been a publication for all the members. Eos, Transactions, American Geophysical Union, at the top of the front page of your newspaper, is both a short pedigree and a formal title. Transactions, American Geophysical Union, first published in 1920, contained the proceedings of the first annual meeting of AGU and reports of the then seven sections. Transactions continued as an annual volume through 1944, frequently in multiple parts, and a few times in the 1920s did not appear at all. In its first 25 years it covered an increasing suite of AGU-related meetings.
A systems approach to understanding root development

Systems theory has been applied to process analysis in a variety of scientific disciplines from engineering to evolutionary biology. In the recent postgenomic era, the accumulation of an enormous amount of data gained from a variety of technologies has led to a revisiting of systems theory concepts. This systems biology approach has been integral in understanding a variety of processes in a number of model organisms. This review gives an overview of systems biology approaches, from component identification to modeling of networks. Various features of the root, including its development and the availability of high resolution gene expression data sets that describe root development, make the root amenable to a systems approach. The current status of systems approaches to understanding root development is reviewed.
Research of Improving the Technique of Electrostatic Collection to High Resistivity Dust by Humidifying and Cooling through Ultrasonic Atomization

In order to study the effect of dust removal in the electrostatic precipitator under the influence of change of temperature and air moisture of flue gas, the ultrasonic atomization and electrical heating has been adopted for simulated gas to change its air moisture and temperature. The specific resistance of fly ash of fluidized bed boiler, the V-j characteristics of the precipitator model and the efficiency of dust removal has been tested in gas working conditions. The measured results of dust specific resistance shows that: when the temperature of gas at range of 100°C to 150°C, the specific resistance of dust was lower when the air moisture is at 23.73% than at 5.21%, especially when the gas temperature is below 120°C, the specific resistance of dust reduce more,and it can reach the orders of magnitude at1010Ω·cm when the moisture of 23.73%; then keep the temperature at 150°C and make the moisture increased, the specific resistance of dust is decreased, however it is still more than 1011Ω·cm when the moisture is increased to 23.73%. The measured results of V-j characteristics of the precipitator model shows that: when the moisture keeps at 23.73% and the temperature is below 120°C, the electric field does not occur the phenomenon of anti-corona. The test result of the efficiency of dust removal indicated that: when we make the moisture increased to 23.73% and the gas temperature below 120°C, the efficiency of dust removal shows a significant increase. The results confirmed that we can improve the purification efficiency of high resistivity dust through flue gas humidification and proper temperature maintain.
Insulin propeptides in conditions associated with insulin resistance in humans and their relevance to insulin measurements

Routine insulin assays measure not only biologically active insulin but also the relatively inactive propeptides, proinsulin and desdipeptide proinsulin. Such measurements may be misleading if insulin propeptide levels are increased, as has been reported in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Inferences regarding insulin resistance, based on hyperinsulinemia, could thus be invalidated where routine insulin assays have been used. We have measured plasma insulin levels using a routine assay, together with measurements of the major circulating insulin propeptides, intact proinsulin and des 31,32proinsulin, in various clinical situations associated with apparently increased insulin levels and insulin resistance. Major increases of insulin propeptide levels relative to insulin levels were not seen in obese subjects or in patients taking oral contraceptives or danazol, or in obese subjects compared with non-obese controls. Although the insulinemic responses observed with routine radioimmunoassay in these situations associated with insulin resistance are not confounded by major changes in the proportion of circulating insulin propeptides, further studies will be necessary to validate investigations in other insulin-resistant states.
Characterization of Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase gene promoter in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana subjected to water stress

Abstract Many plants accumulate proline in response to osmotic stress. Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase (P5CS) is the rate limiting enzyme in proline biosynthesis in plants. The promoter of an Arabidopsis P5CS gene was isolated and analyzed using a β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene in transgenic plants. NaCl stress induced GUS activity to the maximum level within 3 h while dehydration continued to enhance the GUS activity up to 24 h. The P5CS gene promoter was found to contain two transcription start sites, and dehydration stimulated the transcription predominantly from the downstream site. Abscisic acid (ABA) failed to induce the P5CS gene expression although ABA is known to increase during water stress. These observations suggest that induction of the P5CS gene is a specific response of plants to salt and water stresses.
Motivating expressive writing with a text-to-sound application

Writing about emotional experiences has been shown to have long-term physical and mental health benefits, but it also creates short-term discomfort. We designed a system to motivate expressive writing by enhancing enjoyment and pleasure. Using automated language analysis, we designed a system that maps sound onto categories of language resulting in a musical interpretation of expressive writing texts. An experimental design compared the experience of 126 participants across musical and non-musical writing platforms Participants found the musical system to be more pleasurable.
RC-BLASTn: Implementation and Evaluation of the BLASTn Scan Function

BLASTn is a tool universally used by biologists to identify similarities between nucleotide based biological genome sequences. This report describes an hardware implementation designed to accelerate algorithm maintaining the same results yielded by the software developed at NCBI. A detailed profile study identifies the Blast_Nt_Scan function as the computationally intensive part of the algorithm. A hardware component has been designed and implemented for this critical section. Rather then trying to implement more of the computation on the FPGA chip, our focus is on improving workload performance. Hence, the hardware has been designed to be replicated and placed on the FPGA to reduce initial comparison latencies between multiple short sequences(queries) and a subject database. Tests reveal the current implementation achieves an approximate 4X speedup over the software run on a modern general purpose computer
Superdiffusive Behavior of Mobile Nodes and Its Impact on Routing Protocol Performance

Mobility is the most important component in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) and delay-tolerant networks (DTNs). In this paper, we first investigate numerous GPS mobility traces of human mobile nodes and observe superdiffusive behavior in all GPS traces, which is characterized by a ?faster-than-linear? growth rate of the mean square displacement (MSD) of a mobile node. We then investigate a large amount of access point (AP) based traces, and develop a theoretical framework built upon continuous time random walk (CTRW) formalism, in which one can identify the degree of diffusive behavior of mobile nodes even under possibly heavy-tailed pause time distribution, as in the case of reality. We study existing synthetic models and trace-based models in terms of the capability of producing various degrees of diffusive behavior, and use a set of Levy walk models due to its simplicity and flexibility. In addition, we show that diffusive properties make a huge impact on contact-based metrics and the performance of routing protocols in various scenarios, and that existing models such as random waypoint, random direction model, or Brownian motion lead to overly optimistic or pessimistic results when diffusive properties are not properly captured. Our work in this paper, thus, suggests that the diffusive behavior of mobile nodes should be correctly captured and taken into account for the design and comparison study of network protocols.
Reducing input parameter uncertainty for simulations

Parameters of statistical distributions that are input to simulations are typically not known with certainty. For existing systems, or variations on existing systems, they are often estimated from field data. Even if the mean of simulation output were estimable exactly as a function of input parameters, there may still be uncertainty about the output mean because inputs are not known precisely. This paper considers the problem of deciding how to allocate resources for additional data collection so that input uncertainty is reduced in a way that effectively reduces uncertainty about the output mean. The optimal solution to the problem in full generality appears to be quite challenging. Here, we simplify the problem with asymptotic approximations in order provide closed-form sampling plans for additional data collection activities. The ideas are illustrated with a simulation of a critical care facility.
Application-specific protocols for user-level shared memory

Recent distributed shared memory (DSM) systems and proposed shared-memory machines have implemented some or all of their cache coherence protocols in software. One way to exploit the flexibility of this software is to tailor a coherence protocol to match an application's communication patterns and memory semantics. This paper presents evidence that this approach can lead to large performance improvements. It shows that application-specific protocols substantially improved the performance of three application programs--appbt, em3d, and barnes--over carefully tuned transparent shared memory implementations. The speed-ups were obtained on Blizzard, a fine-grained DSM system running on a 32-node Thinking Machines CM-5.
Cholangiocarcinoma size on magnetic resonance imaging versus pathologic specimen: Implications for radiation treatment planning

Abstract Purpose The accuracy of abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in measuring gross tumor volume in patients with resectable cholangiocarcinoma (CC) is unknown. CC is a highly difficult tumor to visualize and treatment with dose-escalated radiation therapy requires clear tumor delineation. We aim to investigate the concordance between imaging and pathologic size in patients with resected CC to determine the usefulness of MRI for image guided treatment modalities. Methods and materials The records of 51 patients with resected CC who underwent preoperative MRI were evaluated. Each preoperative MRI was individually reviewed by a diagnostic radiologist (P.M.), who was blinded to pathologic measurements. A combination of dynamic multiphase contrast-enhanced T1- and T2-weighted images, original imaging reports, and pathologic reports were reviewed for greatest tumor dimensions. A general linear regression model was used to examine the outcome MRI minus pathology using MRI report, T1-weighted measurement, or T2-weighted measurement. A multivariable regression model was fit to assess the association of other factors with pathologic underestimation. Results The median age was 69 years. Eleven tumors were categorized distal/extrahepatic, 17 hilar, and 23 intrahepatic CC. The median tumor size on pathology report was 3.00 cm (range, 0.3-19). The median tumor size from the MRI report was 3 cm (range, 0.80-16.20) and median tumor size on independent radiological review was 3 cm (range, 0.90-17) on the T1-weighted and 3 cm (range, 0.90-17) on the T2-weighted MRI sequences. When compared with pathologic tumor size, the MRI report dimension was found to underestimate tumor size by 4.1 mm ( P = .04). On multivariable analysis, pathologic size underestimation was influenced by increasing tumor size (slope, −0.20; P Conclusions MRI underestimates tumor size, which was more pronounced with larger tumors, but not influenced by tumor location. The potential for gross tumor volume underestimation should be considered when planning highly conformal radiation therapy treatment of CC.
Unpredictable Response of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Synergistic Antibiotic Combinations In Vitro

The combined activity of ticarcillin and each of three aminoglycosides, gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin, was studied with 45 clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa . All strains individually were susceptible to each of these agents. Comparison of the results revealed highly variable interaction, both from strain to strain and from one aminoglycoside to another against the same strain. Against 11 strains, none of three antibiotic pairs tested was synergistic by conventional criteria; against the remaining 34, three, any two, or any one pair among those tested was synergistic. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of individual drugs gave no indication of the degree of synergism to be expected. We conclude that generalizations about the behavior of this organism vis-a-vis penicillin-aminoglycoside combinations in vitro are subject to many exceptions. Furthermore, no test using a particular antibiotic combination is reliable as a screen for other combinations. If this experience is duplicated in vivo, combination testing may be as important for the choice of combination therapy as individual susceptibility testing is for the choice of individual antibiotics.
Crew Module Hydrodynamic Stability Analysis and Simulation

This paper presents the findings of a six degree of freedom (6-DOF) hydrodynamic stability analysis performed to evaluate the affects of a righting system on the Orion crew module. These studies make use of 1:10 scaled wave tank testing, Apollo lessons learned and open source Apollo design and hydrodynamic data for comparison and validation. Stability of the Orion crew module is characterized by the slope at the roots of the curve representing the righting arm as a function of roll and / or pitch angle and is summarized as asymptotically stable, neutrally stable or unstable. Matlab and Simulink are used as the analytical platform to perform a time step integration of the rigid body acceleration terms in the six inertial reference coordinates of heave, sway, surge, roll, pitch and yaw (X, Y, Z, Phi, Theta, Psi). The simulation platform is evaluated for appropriateness in developing an environment interaction model, performing the righting arm solution, and graphing and animating results. The righting system is characterized by flotation spheres placed atop the crew module. There are six possible locations with a maximum of three locations being used for any one righting system configuration. Analytical solutions are compared to water tank tests of scale models developed using rapid prototyping technology. Finally, conclusions to this work and future studies are outlined.
Contributions of the two accessory subunits, RNASEH2B and RNASEH2C, to the activity and properties of the human RNase H2 complex

Eukaryotic RNase H2 is a heterotrimeric enzyme. Here, we show that the biochemical composition and stoichiometry of the human RNase H2 complex is consistent with the properties previously deduced from genetic studies. The catalytic subunit of eukaryotic RNase H2, RNASEH2A, is well conserved and similar to the monomeric prokaryotic RNase HII. In contrast, the RNASEH2B and RNASEH2C subunits from human and Saccharomyces cerevisiae share very little homology, although they both form soluble B/C complexes that may serve as a nucleation site for the addition of RNASEH2A to form an active RNase H2, or for interactions with other proteins to support different functions. The RNASEH2B subunit has a PIP-box and confers PCNA binding to human RNase H2. Unlike Escherichia coli RNase HII, eukaryotic RNase H2 acts processively and hydrolyzes a variety of RNA/DNA hybrids with similar efficiencies, suggesting multiple cellular substrates. Moreover, of five analyzed mutations in human RNASEH2B and RNASEH2C linked to Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome (AGS), only one, R69W in the RNASEH2C protein, exhibits a significant reduction in specific activity, revealing a role for the C subunit in enzymatic activity. Near-normal activity of four AGS-related mutant enzymes was unexpected in light of their predicted impairment causing the AGS phenotype.
Lesions associated with natural and experimental infections of Aeromonas hydrophila in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus (Rafinesque)

. Histologic differences were observed in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus (Rafinesque), with naturally occurring cutaneous (bacteria isolated only from lesions of skin and superficial muscle) and systemic Aeromonas hydrophila infections. Systemic infections were characterized by diffuse necrosis in several internal organs and the presence of melanin-containing macrophages in the blood. Fish with only cutaneous infections had several types of concealed lesions including increased amounts of lipofuscin and haemosiderin in the liver and spleen; however, most visceral organs were not necrotic. The average condition factor of fish with cutaneous infections was lower than for fish with systemic infections. Early histologic lesions in channel catfish experimentally infected by immersion in a suspension of A. hydrophila were similar to lesions observed in naturally occurring systemic infections and to lesions previously reported in channel catfish injected intraperitoneally with A. hydrophila. In experimentally infected fish, all lesions healed in fish that did not die, and prolonged infections limited to skin and muscle did not occur.
Miocene and Pliocene Sandstone Petrofacies of the Northern Albuquerque Basin, New Mexico, and Implications for Evolution of the Rio Grande Rift

ABSTRACT Sand(stone) petrofacies are an essential element in paleogeographic and paleotectonic reconstruction of nonmarine basins, such as those of the Rio Grande rift. The Miocene-Pliocene Santa Fe Group of the northern Albuquerque basin records development of the Rio Grande rift. The Santa Fe Group consists of alluvial, lacustrine, and eolian deposits. Three lithostratigraphic units (from oldest to youngest, the Zia, middle red, and Ceja) are petrologically indistinguishable, and therefore are all part of the Albuquerque petrofacies (QFL% 53-26-21). Also present is a locally derived volcanic-hypabyssal petrofacies. Sandstone composition and regional relations indicate that most of the Albuquerque petrofacies is the distal equivalent of Miocene petrofacies of the Espanola basin and southern Tusas Mountains. Equivalence of petrofacies in the two basins supports a hypothesis for two-stage development of the Rio Grande rift. During Middle to Late Miocene time, the two basins were connected to form one enlarged Espanola basin, an irregular west-tilted half graben formed by high-angle faulting on reactivated Laramide structures. In the latest Miocene, movement began on the Embudo-Pajarito-La Bajada-San Francisco-Rincon fault system, and the Sandia Mountains rose rapidly. In the process, the northern Albuquerque basin reversed its half-graben tilt from westward (as the southern part of the Miocene Espa ola basin) to eastward (the modern Albuquerque basin). The modern Albuquerque basin bears little resemblance to its Miocene counterpart.
Social Service Barriers Experienced by Low-income Extended-stay Hotel Residents

This article presents findings from a qualitative study of 14 individuals residing in extended-stay hotels after housing displacement. Framed in ecosystems and structuration theory, the purpose of this study was to understand social service barriers experienced by help-seeking residents. Participants were engaged in in-depth interviews and asked about challenges faced when they reached out for assistance to prepare for stable housing. Reported barriers included negative interactions with social service personnel, cumbersome agency processes, and insufficient/inappropriate resources. Hotel residents identified guidance, compassion, and advocacy as interventions practitioners can use to support client transitions to stable housing.