cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lack of changes in histomorphometric, bone mass, and biochemical parameters in ovariohysterectomized dogs.

Abstract A predictable animal model with skeletal remodeling characteristics similar to those of humans is needed to facilitate the understanding of the mechanism of postmenopausal osteoporosis. We have utilized the Ovariohysterectomized (Ovh) dog to examine cellular and biochemical responses to estrogen depletion and PTH stimulation. Histomorphometric measurements of bone biopsies taken prior to (first biopsy) and five months after the operation (second biopsy) showed no significant differences in static and dynamic parameters. Bone mineral density of the excised vertebrae displayed the same values between the two groups six months after surgery. Between the second biopsy and sacrifice, two infusion studies were performed. A two-hour infusion of EDTA followed by a two-hour recovery period elicited a rapid response in PTH production, highly correlated to the changes in ionized calcium, but no significant difference in response was observed between Sham and Ovh groups. A short-term (24-h) infusion of 1–34 hPTH increased circulating ionized calcium and 1,25-(OH) 2 -D levels to a similar extent in both groups. The levels of alkaline phosphatase were constant and both groups showed a small but nonsignificant increase in osteocalcin. The lack of sizable responses in histomorphometric, bone mass and biochemical parameters may limit the utility of dogs for the study of cancellous bone loss in ovarian-dysfunction osteoporosis.
Enhanced validity and reliability of spatial decision support systems (SDSS) for sustainable transportation decision-making

Abstract The use of spatial decision support system (SDSS) is widely defined by various scholars and research projects. One good example would be in the area of transportation planning. With the recent emphasis on the relationship between transportation and environmental impact, adoptable nature of geographic information systems (GIS) with its spatial data management received particular attention. This perspective especially serves the area of the preliminary plan for a new transportation corridor as the utilization of GIS enables researchers to pinpoint the changes in natural landscape as well as physical environment. There are, however, constraints in the coordinated use of SDSS and transportation planning. Especially, the validity and reliability side of SDSS have been constantly challenged by many scholars. Although SDSS provides an advantage to create multiple alternatives, its subjective weighting process sometimes questions effectiveness of the final outcome. Therefore, this study aims to relieve the two limitations by incorporating confirmatory factor analysis and raster-based suitability matrix under the domain of transportation planning. As a result, the following research questions were answered: 1) Using confirmatory factor analysis, do input variables group based on their underlying implications?; and 2) Does the suitability matrix reflects each route's suitability score based on its emphasis? The modeling process adequately meets the need for logical weighting and systematic grouping process, and the final outcome is also examined by a suitability matrix clearly indicating that the proposed SDSS supports for more evidence-based planning practice.
Cognitive functioning in bipolar and co-occurring substance use disorders: a missing piece of the puzzle.

The co-occurrence of bipolar and substance use disorders (SUD) poses one of the most difficult challenges to psychiatric care. Acute mania complicated by SUD is characterized by less favorable remi...
6951 Moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma complicating an ablated segment of esophageal columnar lined epithelium using argon plasma coagulation.

Columnar lined epithelium (CLE) is a well recognized complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which carries a significant risk of malignant transformation. Various therapeutic modalities have been used to ablate CLE, in an attempt to abolish the risk of malignancy, such as bipolar electrocoagulation, argon plasma coagulation (APC) and photodynamic therapy. There has been a concern that regeneration of squamous epithelium may not protect patients from the occurence of adenocarcinoma. We report the first case of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma arising in APC regenrated squamous epithelium six months after complete ablation. Case Report:A 69 year-old man with a history of GERD complicated by CLE of ten years duration was found to have low grade dysplasia at surveillance endoscopy. The patient elected to undergo APC ablation therapy in addition to enhanced surveillance. His past medical history was significant of hypertension and ischemic heart disease. His medication included lansoprazole, atenolol and aspirin. He denied alcohol use and gave up smoking twenty years ago. His family history was significant for mother dying of esophageal carcinoma and a sister having GERD and CLE. Physical examination was unremarkable. He underwent endoscopy which revealed a 6 cm segment of CLE. Post biopsies, the entire segment of CLE was treated with APC using ERBE set at 35-40 Watts and gas flow at 0.4 liter/min. Biopsies confirmed low grade dysplasia. Subsequently he underwent three sessions of APC at two months intervals resulting in near complete regression of his CLE. A surveillance endoscopy six months later revealed an ablated CLE with a few new 2-3 mm islands of CLE surrounded by squamous epithelium. At 33 cm, the site of the pre-treatment squamocolumnar junction, there was a new nodular 3 mm area of CLE. Biopsies showed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. Patient underwent endoscopic ultrasonography which revealed a 3 mm nodule with two adjacentlymph nodes suggestive of malignant involvement. Conclusion:We described a case of long segment of CLE ablated by APC in which a malignant transformation was detected on subsequent surveillance endoscopy. This case indicates that ablation of CLE does not necessarily abolish the risk of malignancy. When APC ablation is contemplated in the setting of low grade dysplasia, frequent endoscopic follow up is essential.We recommend that surveillance endoscopy with biopsies should be every six months.
Metamorphic competence in aplysia californica cooper

Abstract Metamorphic competence in the opisthobranch gastropod Aplysia californica Cooper coincides with the appearance of four to six irregularly shaped red spots on the right side of the outer periviceral membrane beneath the larval shell along with a red line overlying the mantle margin. If this pigmented pattern is not manifest, the animal will not respond to the metamorphic substratum, a number of red seaweeds including Agardhiella subulata (C. Agardh) Kraft et Wayne and Laurencia paciflca Kylin. Preliminary observations indicate that an exogenous factor(s), present in summer seawater in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, but absent during the winter months, is required for the onset of metamorphic competence. This factor is rendered inactive by heating fresh summer seawater for short periods or is removed via ultrafiltration using 30–100-K membranes. Exudants and crude extracts from red seaweeds (Agardhiella sp. and Gracillaria sp.) trigger the competence transition and metamorphosis. We have yet to determine whether the competence and metamorphic inducers are the same compound. Nevertheless, this factor does not appear to be required for normal larval growth and development preceding the competence transition. The possible ecological significance of our laboratory observations is briefly discussed.
Self-consistent modeling of escape and capture of carriers in quantum wells

Abstract A self-consistent model for escape and capture of carriers in quantum wells is described. The model accounts for carrier dynamics in the quantum wells by calculating the rates of escape and capture of photo-excited carriers in the wells, and including these rates in a self-consistent solution of the Poisson, Schrodinger, and drift–diffusion equations. The results obtained are in good agreement with those experimentally measured or theoretically calculated by others. Furthermore, the escape and capture rates calculated are in compliance with the requirements of detailed balance theory.
Interaction of the interstellar medium with the solar wind

The possibilities for making observations of the region of interaction between the solar wind and the interstellar medium, and of the interstellar medium itself, are discussed. It is emphasized that missions to the outer planets undertaken in 1977–1979 are ideally suited for making such observations.
Genetic neurodegenerative diseases: The human illness and transgenic models

Review The neurodegenerative disorders, a heterogeneous group of chronic progressive diseases, are among the most puzzling and devastating illnesses in medicine. Some of these disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the prion diseases, and Parkinson's disease, can occur sporadically and, in some instances, are caused by inheritance of gene mutations. Huntington's disease is acquired in an entirely genetic manner. Transgenic mice that express disease-causing genes recapitulate many features of these diseases. This review provides an overview of transgenic mouse models of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, familial Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease and the emerging insights relevant to the underlying molecular mechanisms of these diseases.
The other missions of NGOs: Education and advocacy

Abstract This article addresses the development education and policy advocacy roles of NGOs in the United States. These functions are seen as integral to the basic purpose of NGOs: meeting human needs. The author notes the previous accomplishments of NGOs, such as the creation of development education curricula, the organization of lectures and speaking tours, events such as World Food Day, and lobbying efforts aimed at policy makers. But for all the successes, numerous constraints exist, including the direct action nature of United States NGOs, the complexity of development issues, the potential loss of autonomy due to increasing government funding of their development programs, and the political nature of education and advocacy. The paper concludes that US NGOs are uniquely situated to play a major role in education and advocacy towards meeting broad development goals, but they need to work consciously towards overcoming these constraints.
UNIVERSITY PRODUCTIVITY AND THE ORGANIZATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN TURKEY

This theoretical paper examines some of the potential impacts of different modes of university organization in Turkey (Faculty and Departmental) upon the scientific productivity of faculty members. A model of university organization is developed which distinguishes between the administrative and academic structures within the university. This model, derived largely from the literature on bureaucratic and professional organizations, provides the basis for a comparative analysis of the structural differences between the Faculty and Departmental mode of university organization in Turkey. Exploration of these structural differences leads to the hypothesis that the organizational structure of the Departmental university, in the Turkish setting, is more functional, on net balance, than the Faculty mode of university organization for the development of high levels of faculty productivity in the fields of science. Examination of some very limited data on the scientific activities of Turkish scientists in a sample of Turkish universities, though by no means conclusive, suggests that, within given social situations, this hypothesis may indeed be correct. Nevertheless, it is clear that there exists a need not only for more extensive research in this area, but also for more detailed information as to the social, political, and economic situations within which university organizations exist.
Evaluation of a protocol to control utilization of B-type natriuretic peptide testing.

The Veterans Affairs (VA) Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, instituted a protocol limiting the number of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) assays to 1 per hospitalization or outpatient visit and requiring approval of the cardiology service for more than 1 because of a 3-fold monthly increase in BNP testing. Effectiveness of this protocol was assessed by studying BNP utilization for 6-month periods before and after institution of the protocol. Before: 1,886 assays in 752 patients; mean BNP assays per patient, 2.5; direct reagent cost, $33, 948; 1 BNP assay in 57.3% (431) of patients; 321 patients with multiple and 204 patients with serial BNP requests. After: 782 assays (-58.5%) in 593 patients (-21.1%); mean BNP assays per patient, 1.3 (-48.0%); direct reagent cost, $14,076 (-58.5%); 1 BNP assay in 81.1% (481) of patients; 112 patients with multiple and 24 patients with serial BNP requests (-88.2%). The emergency department was the source of BNP assays in 15.4% of requests before compared with 58.1% after introduction of the protocol. The protocol with slight modifications has been adopted by other VA medical centers in New England and may serve as a model for other medical facilities seeking to control BNP utilization.
Consequences of RAS and MAPK activation in the ovary: the good, the bad and the ugly

This review summarizes studies providing evidence (1) that endogenous RAS activation regulates important physiological events during ovulation and luteinization (2) that expression of the mutant, active KRAS(G12D) in granulosa cells in vivo causes abnormal follicle growth arrest leading to premature ovarian failure and (3) that KRAS(G12D) expression in ovarian surface epithelial (OSE) cells renders them susceptible to the pathological outcome of transformation and tumor formation. These diverse effects of RAS highlight how critical its activation is linked to cell- and stage-specific events in the ovary that control normal processes and that can also lead to altered granulosa cell and OSE cell fates.
Prognostic Value of DNA Ploidy, bcl-2 and p53 in Localized Prostate Adenocarcinoma Incidentally Discovered at Transurethral Prostatectomy

Purpose: Discovery of prostatic adenocarcinoma limited to transurethral resection material generates a treatment dilemma. We investigated the usefulness of parameters shown to be associated with prognosis in prostate cancer (p53 and bcl-2 immuno-expression, DNA cell cycle analysis and Gleason score) to stratify these incidentally identified tumors to guide clinical decision making.Materials and Methods: Paraffin embedded tissues from transurethral prostate resection specimens containing T1a prostate adenocarcinoma from 44 patients who underwent resection between 1980 and 1990 were immunostained for p53 and bcl-2, and subjected to flow cytometry to determine DNA ploidy. Gleason score was determined by 2 pathologists independently. Statistical relationships among these 4 variables, tumor progression and cancer specific survival were analyzed.Results: Six of 44 patients in the study population had cancer progression. Time to clinical progression was 4.5 years (range 7 months to 11 years). Most tumors stained...
Sexual cycle and horizontal transmission of the grass symbiont, Epichloë typhina

Epichloe typhina is a biotrophic symbiont of grasses with its sexual state on immature host inflorescences. The ectophytic, presexual structure (stroma) of E. typhina produces spermatia and also serves as the female structure in mating. After fertilization there is proliferation of a dense mycelium which has been suggested to be heterokaryotic. Perithecia form in the thickened stroma. We investigated the possible formation of heterokaryons in matings and the role of ascospores in contagious spread of E. typhina. In almost all instances the transfer to a stroma of spermatia of opposite mating type leads to thickening of the stroma; however, ascospores were produced only if the parents were of the same mating population. Fertilization of part of a stroma by one spermatial parent often inhibited fertilization by another strain elsewhere on the stroma depending upon the spermatial isolates used. Tests for heterokaryon formation were performed by culturing stromata after matings that produced no ascospores, to avoid analysing meiotic products. In two instances the female was cultured, and in two the nuclear and mitochondrial haplotypes were primarily of the male. In another instance mitochondrial haplotypes and mitochondrial plasmids from the female became associated with the male nuclear haplotype. These results suggest that, following mating, male hyphae proliferate and heterokaryons may sometimes form and also proliferate. To test how ascospores mediate infection, inflorescences of uninfected perennial ryegrass plants were surrounded by fertilized stromata from which E. typhina ascospores were being ejected, seeds were collected and grown, newly infected progeny plants were identified, and isolates from five progeny plants were analysed genetically. As expected for ascospore progeny the rDNA haplotype of the stromal and spermatial parents had segregated, whereas all five isolates had the stromal profile of mitochondrial DNA. This observation demonstrated that ascospores mediate infection of new host plants.
Leukoencephalopathy with intracranial calcifications and cysts in an adult: Case report and review of literature

Leukoencephalopathy, intracranial calcifications, and cysts (LCC) is a very rare cerebral disorder, first described in 3 children in 1996. It has subsequently been reported in adults and children from Europe and America, but has not so far been reported from Asia. We report an adult patient with pathologically proven LCC from a tertiary care hospital in South India. He presented with features of ataxia and raised intracranial pressure. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed multiple bilateral cerebral cystic lesions along with diffuse white matter lesions in the cerebral and cerebellar white matter, and computed tomography of brain showed multiple calcifications in the white matter and basal ganglia. A large right cerebellar cyst causing mass effect was surgically excised. Histopathologic features were consistent with earlier reports of LCC and showed Rosenthal fibers, angiomatous changes, and calcifications. Our report suggests that although it is rare, LCC has a global distribution.
Cation transport specificity at the blood-brain barrier.

The molecular identification, expression and cloning of membrane-bound organic cation transporters are being completed in isolated in vitro membranes. In vivo studies, where cation specificity overlaps, need to complement this work. Method: Cross-inhibition of [3H]choline and [3H]thiamine brain uptake by in situ rat brain perfusion. Results: [3H]Choline brain uptake was not inhibited by thiamine at physiologic concentrations (100 nM). However, choline ranging from 100 nM to 250 μM inhibited [3H]thiamine brain uptake, though not below levels observed at thiamine concentrations of 100 nM. Conclusion: (1) The molecular family of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) choline transporter may be elucidated in vitro by its interaction with physiologic thiamine levels, and (2) two cationic transporters at the BBB may be responsible for thiamine brain uptake.
Characterization of Disinfection Byproduct Precursors Based on Hydrophobicity and Molecular Size

Natural organic matter (NOM) from five water sources was fractionated using XAD resins and ultrafiltration membranes into different groups based on hydrophobicity and molecular weight (MW), respectively. The disinfection byproduct formation from each fraction during chlorination and chloramination was studied. In tests using chlorination, hydrophobic and high MW (e.g., >0.5 kDa) precursors produced more unknown total organic halogen (UTOX) than corresponding hydrophilic and low MW (e.g., <0.5 kDa) precursors. Trihaloacetic acid (THAA) precursors were more hydrophobic than trihalomethane (THM) precursors. The formation of THM and THAA was similar among different fractions for a water with low humic content. Hydrophilic and low MW (<0.5 kDa) NOM fractions gave the highest dihaloacetic acid (DHAA) yields. No significant difference was found for DHAA formation among different NOM fractions during chloramination. Increasing pH from 6 to 9 led to lower TOX formation for hydrophobic and high MW NOM fractions but had little impact on TOX yields from hydrophilic and low MW fractions. Bromine and iodine were more reactive with hydrophilic and low MW precursors as measured by THM or HAA formation than their corresponding hydrophobic and high MW precursors. However, hydrophobic and high MW precursors produced more UTOX when reacting with bromine and iodine.
Osmoregulation and salinity tolerance in the Antarctic midge, Belgica antarctica: seawater exposure confers enhanced tolerance to freezing and dehydration.

SUMMARY Summer storms along the Antarctic Peninsula can cause microhabitats of the terrestrial midge Belgica antarctica to become periodically inundated with seawater from tidal spray. As microhabitats dry, larvae may be exposed to increasing concentrations of seawater. Alternatively, as a result of melting snow or following rain, larvae may be immersed in freshwater for extended periods. The present study assessed the tolerance and physiological response of B. antarctica larvae to salinity exposure, and examined the effect of seawater acclimation on their subsequent tolerance of freezing, dehydration and heat shock. Midge larvae tolerated extended exposure to hyperosmotic seawater; nearly 50% of larvae survived a 10-day exposure to 1000 mOsm kg –1 seawater and ∼25% of larvae survived 6 days in 2000 mOsm kg –1 seawater. Exposure to seawater drastically reduced larval body water content and increased hemolymph osmolality. By contrast, immersion in freshwater did not affect water content or hemolymph osmolality. Hyperosmotic seawater exposure, and the accompanying osmotic dehydration, resulted in a significant correlation between the rate of oxygen consumption and larval water content and induced the de novo synthesis and accumulation of several organic osmolytes. A 3-day exposure of larvae to hyperosmotic seawater increased freezing tolerance relative to freshwater-acclimated larvae. Even after rehydration, the freezing survival of larvae acclimated to seawater was greater than freshwater-acclimated larvae. Additionally, seawater exposure increased the subsequent tolerance of larvae to dehydration. Our results further illustrate the similarities between these related, yet distinct, forms of osmotic stress and add to the suite of physiological responses used by larvae to enhance survival in the harsh and unpredictable Antarctic environment.
Carcinoma of temporal bone, base of the skull: diagnosis by needle aspiration cytology.

We report on a 68-yr-old male with a destructive bone lesion involving the temporal bone at the skull base extending to surrounding osseous structures and the infratemporal fossa, defined by needle aspiration cytology as carcinoma in association with inflammatory reaction, bacterial type, and bone destruction. The technique of the aspiration, which was performed by a cytopathologist directing a spinal needle into the region of the destroyed temporal bone as outlined in the radiographs of prior magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is discussed. The application of this technique in the cytologic sampling of deeper lesions usually of soft or ossecus tissues not accessible to ordinary fine-needle aspiration is presented. There is also a brief discussion of neoplastic lesions involving the temporal bone at the skull base and the anatomic concerns in sampling lesions in this difficult-to-approach region of the body. Diagn. Cytopathol. 24:356–360, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Consistent regression estimation with fixed design points under dependence conditions

Abstract For n = 1, 2,… and i integer between 1 and n, let xni be fixed design points in a compact subset S of R p , p⩾ 1 , and let Yni be observations taken at these points through g, an unknown continuous real-valued function defined on R p , and subject to errors eni; that is, Yni = g(xni) + eni. For any x in R p , g(x) is estimated by gn(x; xn) = Σni = 1wni(x; xn)Yni, where xn = (xn1,…,xnn) and wni(·;·) are suitable weights. If the errors eni are centered at their expectations, the proposed estimate is asymptotically unbiased. It is also consistent in quadratic mean and strongly consistent, if, in addition and for each n, the random variables eni, i ⩾ 1, are coming from a strictly stationary sequence obeying any one of the four standard modes of mixing.
Validation of Two-Fluid Eulerian CFD Modeling for Microbubble Drag Reduction Across a Wide Range of Reynolds Numbers

An Eulerian two-fluid computational fluid dynamics model has been developed for flows with microbubble drag reduction (MBDR). This paper focuses on recent validation studies for MBDR flows across a spectrum of Reynolds numbers. Direct numerical simulations and two sets of experimental flat plate boundary layer measurements are studied. In this paper the interfacial dynamics and other models used are first presented, followed by detailed comparisons with the validation cases. Emphasis is placed on the modeling strategies required to capture measured volume fraction, bubble size, and bubble velocity distributions, as well as skin friction drag reduction.
Balloon extraction of esophageal foreign bodies in children

Abstract Background: Whereas esophageal foreign bodies are commonly removed with rigid esophagoscopy under general anesthesia, selected foreign bodies also can be removed using a Foley catheter balloon under fluoroscopic control without anesthesia. The authors prefer to initially attempt removal of smooth, radiopaque esophageal foreign bodies using the balloon technique and then proceed to rigid esophagoscopy if unsuccessful. Methods: The authors reviewed their 7-year experience with this approach in 276 children with esophageal foreign bodies. Results: One hundred seventy-three children underwent attempted balloon extraction, and 146 of these underwent successful removal with this method. Fifteen remained lodged in the esophagus and were subsequently removed by esophagoscopy, and 12 passed into the stomach and were observed. The only complication was one episode of epistaxis that resolved. Success of the balloon method was not related to patient age, foreign body duration, location, or presenting symptoms. The use of more than 5 minutes of fluoroscopy time was associated with a low likelihood of successful extraction. Conclusion: The balloon extraction technique is a safe and effective alternative to rigid esophagoscopy for the removal of slected esophageal foreign bodies in children.
Correlated spin systems in undoped CdSe quantum dots

The electronic properties of quantum dots have been studied extensively, and recent studies have explored various dopants that can alter electronic properties in quantum dots. Yet, we have found that impurities on the surface of nanometer-scale CdSe materials can also affect electronic properties. Specifically, nitrogen-based impurities on the surface of nanometer-scale CdSe materials (from ~4 to 15 nm) interact with the CdSe conduction electrons to yield an anti-ferromagnetic EPR signal at a high resonance field (g ~ 0.56) that has an inverse Dysonian lineshape. However, bulk CdSe particles do not show the same types of EPR signals. This paper will discuss these observations, explain the underlying phenomena, and discuss implications for future research.
Dust jets, outbursts, and fragmentation of comets

I review three types of related cometary phenomena, which, in the order listed, are increasingly important in studies of cometary evolution: dust jet-like morphological features in comet heads; outbursts; and nucleus fragmentation. Gas-driven collimated jets consisting predominantly of microscopic dust particles are a standard mode of comet activity, as has amply been documented by numerous ground-based observations and even more convincingly by closeup images taken with the cameras aboard the space missions that flew by four periodic comets between 1986 and 2005. Gas expanding from discrete emission sources on or below the nucleus surface drags dust with it into the atmosphere in quantities that vary with time. Briefly occurring sudden great enhancements of activity are known as outbursts. Dust ejecta in most outbursts do not include larger objects than boulder-sized ones, thus limiting the total mass delivered in such episodes. At times, however, outbursts accompany a nucleus fragmentation event, which signals a major episode. Fragmentation events have a tendency to recur, their products offering a complex hierarchy of large fragments. A rapid sequence of fragmentation events may end up with a sudden, complete disintegration of a significant fraction of the original comet or, more rarely, the entire comet. Indications are that cascading fragmentation is the most efficient process of comet aging and ultimate demise.
Preferred duration of rewarding brain stimulation in rats and interstimulus interval

Abstract Animals were allowed to control duration of rewarding brain-stimulation to lateral hypothalamic loci in a two-lever task. Delay conditions imposed between offset of stimulation and availability of the lever with which to initiate stimulation increased preferred duration. This increase appeared to be positively related to durations of delay ranging from 2.5–10.0 sec and occurred maximally after single interspersed delay trials. Preferred duration, thus, reflects effects of precedent and existent stimulation and appears to represent an attempt to regulate overall density of stimulation in terms of positive and accrued negative properties of the stimulation.
Characterization of the maize gene sugary1, a determinant of starch composition in kernels

In maize kernels, mutations in the gene sugary1 (su1) result in (1) increased sucrose concentration; (2) decreased concentration of amylopectin, the branched component of starch; and (3) accumulation of the highly branched glucopolysaccharide phytoglycogen. To investigate further the mechanisms of storage carbohydrate synthesis in maize, part of the su1 gene locus and a cDNA copy of the su1 transcript were characterized. Five new su1 mutations were isolated in a Mutator background, and the mutant allele su1-R4582::Mu1 was isolated by transposon tagging. The identity of the cloned element as the su1 gene locus was confirmed by the cosegregation of restriction fragment length polymorphisms in the same or nearby genomic intervals with three additional, independent su1 mutations. Pedigree analysis was also used to confirm the identity of su1. A 2.8-kb mRNA that is homologous to the cloned gene was detected in maize kernels, and a 2.7-kb cDNA clone was isolated based on hybridization to the genomic DNA. Specific portions of the cDNA hybridized with multiple segments of the maize genome, suggesting that su1 is part of a multigene family. The cDNA sequence specified a polypeptide of at least 742 amino acids, which is highly similar in amino acid sequence to bacterial enzymes that hydrolyze alpha-(1-->6) glucosyl linkages of starch. Therefore, debranching of glucopolysaccharides is seemingly part of the normal process of starch biosynthesis, and the final degree of branch linkages in starch most likely arises from the combined actions of branching and debranching enzymes.
Mechanism and kinetics of metalloenzyme phosphomannose isomerase: measurement of dissociation constants and effect of zinc binding using ESI-FTICR mass spectrometry.

Electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (ESI-FTICR) mass spectrometry was used to study the noncovalent complexation of a metalloenzyme, phosphomannose isomerase (PMI), which catalyzes the interconversion of mannose 6-phosphate and fructose 6-phosphate. The zinc cofactor binding effect and the noncovalent interactions of the holoenzyme with its two natural substrates and two inhibitors, erythrose 4-phosphate and mannitol 1-phosphate, were investigated. Under nondenaturing conditions, the intact zinc-containing monomeric protein ions were reproducibly observed with no dissociation. Molecular ions corresponding to apo-PMI monomer were obtained by dialyzing the holoenzyme against EDTA. The binding/release of the metal ion did not alter the charge-state distributions of the protein to any significant extent, but changed the binding affinity of the substrates by at least 5-fold. Using ESI-FTICR mass spectrometry, the binding stoichiometry and specificity of the enzyme−substrate and en...
Digital Unity and Digital Divide: Surveying Alumni to Study Effects Of a Campus Laptop Initiative

AbstractThis research study assessed the effects of an information technology initiative on under-graduates at a Western Pennsylvania college. A random sample of alumni from the classes of 1997, 1998, and 2000 were surveyed to gauge their attitudes about a technology program instituted in 1994, which provided laptop computers to all incoming freshman. The results indicated that not only was there a positive change in attitudes after the program was initiated, but digital divides based on sex and field of study were diminished during the students’ time on campus. Interestingly, parts of the divide reappear after graduation, by field of study.
Evaluating the Conformity of Sociometric Measurements.

The problem of comparing two sociometric matrices, as originally discussed by Katz and Powell in the early 1950's, is reconsidered and generalized using a different inference model. In particular, the proposed indices of conformity are justified by a regression argument similar to the one used by Somers in presenting his well-known measures of asymmetric ordinal association. A permutation distribution and an associated significance test are developed for the specific hypothesis of “no conformity” reinterpreted as a random matching of the rows and (simultaneously) the columns of one sociometric matrix to the rows and columns of a second. The approximate significance tests that are presented and illustrated with a simple numerical example are based on the first two moments of the permutation distribution, or alternatively, on a random sample from the complete distribution.
Science and the National Welfare

Society is at this moment at the threshold of an undreamed-of mastery of our material environment, for science, which provides that mastery, is in its Golden Age.
The differential effects of haloperidol and methamphetamine on time estimation in the rat.

Forty rats were trained to make a left lever response if a signal (white noise) was 2.5s and to make a right lever response if the signal was 6.3s. When seven intermediate signal durations, to which responses were not reinforced, were randomly interspersed the probability of a right-lever (‘long’) response increased as a function of signal duration. Methamphetamine shifted this psychometric function leftward and decreased its slope: haloperidol also decreased the slope but shifted the function rightward. A combination of haloperidol and methamphetamine led to a function similar to the saline control function. The leftward shift probably reflects an increase in the speed of an internal clock, and the rightward shift probably reflects a decrease in its speed. Since methamphetamine releases several catecholamines, including dopamine, and haloperidol blocks dopamine receptors, it is plausible that the horizontal location of the psychometric function (the speed of the clock) is related to the effective level of dopamine.
Stimulation location within the substantia nigra pars reticulata differentially modulates gait in hemiparkinsonian rats

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) improves the distal motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but long-term improvements in gait and postural disturbances are less pronounced. The effects of stimulation location, within the large nuclear region of the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), and stimulation parameters on improvement in gait are unclear, and this lack of foundational knowledge hinders the application and optimization of SNr DBS. We quantified the effects of medial vs. lateral SNr DBS on methamphetamine-induced circling in hemiparkinsonian rats to test the hypothesis that stimulation location differentially modulates axial symptoms. The frequency tuning curves showed opposite trends with stimulation frequency; during high frequency stimulation, medial SNr DBS decreased ipsilateral circling, while lateral SNr DBS had no effect on circling. As well, we quantified the effects of 130 Hz SNr DBS on gait to test the hypothesis that SNr DBS location differentially modulates gait. High frequency DBS of the medial SNr, but not lateral SNr, improved the rat's ability to maintain walking speed. The therapeutic effects of medial SNr DBS appeared to improve with time on the same order as clinical studies (>10 min). These results suggest that improvement in gait depends on the location of the electrodes (medial vs. lateral SNr) with a time course for improvement reminiscent of human data and provide a rational basis for the appropriate selection of implant site and stimulation parameters for SNr DBS.
Nuclear Medicine Tests for Acute Gastrointestinal Conditions

Acute cholecystitis (AC) and lower-gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding are 2 emergencies commonly encountered in nuclear medicine. Evidence of AC on hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HBS) allows for confident diagnosis and provides support for definitive surgical treatment. Proper patient preparation is essential for HBS including fasting and the use of pharmacologic adjuncts is sometimes required. Pharmacologic adjuncts may also be administered during HBS to shorten the length of the examination and increase its specificity. In the interpretation of HBS, there are several sources of false-positive results to be aware of, most commonly chronic cholecystitis. False-negative results on HBS are usually the result of mistaking another structure, such as a dilated cystic duct, for the gallbladder. Abdominal ultrasound is the appropriate initial test in patients with suspected AC, but HBS is an excellent second tier test for the diagnosis of AC in the work-up of indeterminate cases by sonography. GI bleeding scintigraphy plays an important role in the evaluation and management of patients with acute lower-GI bleeding. Scintigraphy serves to localize sites of active GI bleeding and stratify those patients who would benefit from aggressive treatment (surgery or arteriography) vs those who can be managed medically. Pretest involvement of respective services is critical for successful bleeding site confirmation and therapy by interventional radiology or surgery or both. Single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography erythrocyte scintigraphy has demonstrated superior accuracy and precision over planar scintigraphy in the diagnosis of acute GI bleeding. Additionally, single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography scintigraphy of GI bleeding provides useful supplemental anatomical information that benefits patient management.
Autophagy and aging--when "all you can eat" is yourself.

A recent paper provides evidence that macroautophagy is an essential downstream pathway for one of the mutations known to extend life span. Autophagy, or the degradation of intracellular components...
Solid-state molecular rotors with perdeuterated stators: mechanistic insights from biphenylene rotational dynamics in ordered and disordered crystal forms.

Samples of 4,4′-bis(3,3,3-tri-d5-phenylpropynyl)biphenyl 2, 9,10-bis(3,3,3-tri-d5-phenylpropynyl)anthracene 3, 1,4-bis(3,3,3-tri-d5-phenylpropynyl)naphthalene 4, and 4,4′-bis(3,3,3-tri-d5-phenylpro...
NO2 Adsorption on Ag(100) Supported MgO(100) Thin Films: Controlling the Adsorption State with Film Thickness

Using photoemission and X-ray absorption spectroscopy, we compare the adsorption properties of NO2 at 300 K on MgO(100)/Ag(100) films with thicknesses varying from 2 to 8 ML and NO2 exposures rangi ...
William of Ockham on Right Reason

THE early thirteenth century witnessed the translation and dissemination of the complete Nicomachean Ethics. The notion of recta ratio became a common doctrine within Scholastic moral systems. Most Schoolmen invoked the authority of Aristotle and argued that right reasoning must precede praiseworthy action.' They labeled as "right reason" that practical knowledge which enables morally correct behavior.2 Curiously, the Scholastics were more adept at general description than at fashioning explicit definitions of recta ratio. The phrase seems to have had a generic and flexible meaning: its manifestations included synderesis (knowledge of general norms), prudentia (knowledge of particular norms) and conscientia (knowledge of personal duties); its process merged with the practical syllogism; its content often coincided with eternal or natural law. All too easily, contrasts and variations in the meaning of right reason go unnoticed although they announced fundamental changes in the medieval history of moral theory. The lack of precise definitions fosters the illusion of a monolithic doctrine of Aristotle passing intact through the generations of Scholasticism. Usually sensitive to problems of terminology, William of Ockham (c. 12851349) also neglected to explain the exact meaning of recta ratio. He simply used the notion in two different ways. Overlooking the novel elements in his usage, critics have alleged an inconsistency between the autonomy of an individual's
A Method to Predict Fretting in Diesel Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Bores

The highly dynamic nature of the loads imposed by the rotating and reciprocating components of diesel engines makes this machine highly susceptible to fretting fatigue problems. The authors have developed a method to predict the potential for fretting damage between the connecting rod and its big-end bearing shells. This method uses the ABAQUS finite element software package to conduct detailed contact analysis at the interface between the bearing shells and the connecting rod under the applied loads of the engine operating cycle. This analysis can be performed at the design stage, given the geometry of the connecting rod assembly and the data necessary to calculate the loads. Experimental measurements of the coefficient of friction between the bearing shell and the connecting road are presented, since this is an important factor in the contact analysis. Correlations of the predicted fretting damage to observed fretting locations from engine operation are presented for two variants of connecting rod design. As with any design analysis method, caution must be exercised in the application of the technique to new cases and in the interpretation of the results.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Membrane replacement - Permasep® reverse osmosis desalination

Abstract Membrane replacement rates for very large reverse osmosis (RO) desalination plants using “Permasep” hollow-fine fiber aramid membranes are necessary for estimating future operating costs. This paper is a synopsis of a study that relates long-term average replacement rates, actual use of those permeators installed initially and criteria for membrane replacement to projected plant design performance, membrane life, reserve capacity and rack space.
Immunomodulatory effects of dexamethasone on gene expression of cytokine and stress hormone receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells

article i nfo Glucocorticoid (GC) such as cortisol in humans is a major stress hormone and can influence immunomodulation through various mechanisms including impact on regulatory T-cell (RTC) elements and changes in Th1/Th2 cytokine balance. In this study, we sought to determine the immunomodulatory effects of GC equivalent dexa- methasone (DEX) at various concentrations (10 −7 ,1 0 −8 ,a nd 10 −9 M) on gene expression of RTC, cytokine receptors and stress hormone receptors from normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in an in vitro stress model in 24 h (acute stress) vs 11-day (chronic stress) cultures. Results revealed that the mRNA of forkhead box P3 (FoxP3) was significantly decreased at 24 h with 10 −7
Head, Heart, Odor, and Shadow: The Structure of the Self, the Emotional World, and Ritual Performance among Senoi Temiar

Moving through daily and ceremonial life, Temiar rain forest dwellers of Malaysia exhibit their concern with the permeable person, which they conceive of as a number of potentially detachable selves. When one Temiar passes around the back of another, he may softly recite, "Odor, odor, odor" to keep that person's odor soul from entering him. Another Temiar, angry at his son for not helping clear the swidden fields, chooses to express his anger from afar in a nighttime harangue uttered several cubicles away from the erring son, rather than risk causing his son's startled head soul to flee from a more direct confrontation. A Temiar woman, trance-dancing to the
Statistical-Model Calculation of the Angular Distributions of (α, n) Reaction Products

A calculation of the angular distribution of recoil products resulting from compound nuclear ($\ensuremath{\alpha}, n$) reactions has been programmed on the basis of the spin-dependent statistical theory of nuclear reactions. The program, which is based on the Monte Carlo technique, considers the emission of neutrons, protons, $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles, and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays, and uses either the Fermi-gas or the superconductor model of the nucleus. The computed angular distributions have been compared with the experimental results for various ($\ensuremath{\alpha}, n$) reactions and, in agreement with experiment, exhibit a smooth dropoff from a peak close to 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. This contrasts with the marked disagreement between the experimental results and previous spin-independent calculations, which predicted a peak at large angles to the beam. The difference is ascribed to the effect of competitive $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray emission, which is not adequately considered in spin-independent calculations. The present calculation predicts a faster decrease with angle in the magnitude of the differential cross section than is observed experimentally. This result is independent of the specific parameterization of the calculation and may reflect a small contribution from direct interactions.
Mathematical investigation of bode's law and quantilization of gravity

A non-static General Relativistic mathematical solution for the gravitational field around a star is obtained. From this mathematical solution, the orbits of the planets around the Sun are calculated and compared with Bode's law and the mean distances of the orbits, the origin of the Moon is deduced, and a theory for quantilization of gravity is concluded.
Probiotics: Role in Pathophysiology and Prevention in Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory bowel disease largely affecting low birth weight, premature infants. Once acquired, NEC is accompanied by significant mortality and morbid sequelae. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of NEC continues to evolve, and the development of NEC is likely multifactorial with resultant bowel injury mediated through a final, common inflammatory pathway. The predisposition for NEC appears to involve the interplay between intestinal integrity and function, enteral feeding and bacterial colonization, and regulation of the gastrointestinal and systemic inflammatory response. Commensal organisms or probiotics have been shown to be crucial in the development and modulation of each of these factors within the intestinal epithelium. As a result, probiotic supplementation has been proposed as a promising new intervention for the prevention of NEC. To understand the potential utility of probiotics in NEC, we will discuss: the components of gut defense; the role of the intestinal ecosystem in modulating immunity and inflammation; bacterial colonization patterns in the preterm infant compared with patterns seen in the healthy, full-term infant; the evidence for probiotic use in other populations and diseases; and finally, the evidence of probiotic use specific to the preterm infant and NEC.