cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Blueberry Phytochemicals on Cell Models of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress.

Blueberries have been extensively studied for the health benefits associated with their high phenolic content. The positive impact of blueberry consumption on human health is associated in part with modulation of pro-inflammatory molecular pathways and oxidative stress. Here, we review in vitro studies examining the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of blueberry phytochemicals, discuss the results in terms of relevance to disease and health, and consider how different blueberry components modulate cellular mechanisms. The dampening effects of blueberry-derived molecules on inflammation and oxidative stress in cell models have been demonstrated through down-regulation of the NF-κB pathway and reduction of ROS and lipid peroxidation. The modulatory effects of blueberry phytochemicals on the MAPK pathway and antioxidant system are not as well described, with inconsistent observations reported on immune cells and between models of endothelial, dermal, and ocular inflammation. Although anthocyanins are often reported as the being the main bioactive compound in blueberries, no individual phytochemical has emerged as the primary compound when different fractions are compared; rather, an effect of whole blueberry extracts or synergy between different phenolic and non-phenolic extracts seems apparent. The major molecular mechanisms of blueberry phytochemicals are increasingly defined in cell models, but their relevance in more complex human systems needs further investigation using well-controlled clinical trials, in which systemic exposures to blueberry-associated molecules are measured concurrently with physiologic indices of inflammation and oxidative stress.
The Shield of Nationality: When Governments Break Contracts with Foreign Firms

There is extraordinary variation in how governments treat multinational corporations in emerging economies; in fact, governments around the world have nationalized or eaten away at the value of foreign-owned property in violation of international treaties. This even occurs in poor countries, where governments are expected to, at a minimum, respect the contracts they make with foreign firms lest foreign capital flee. In The Shield of Nationality, Rachel Wellhausen introduces foreign-firm nationality as a key determinant of firms' responses to government breaches of contract. Firms of the same nationality are likely to see a compatriot's broken contract as a forewarning of their own problems, leading them to take flight or fight. In contrast, firms of other nationalities are likely to meet the broken contract with apparent indifference. Evidence includes quantitative analysis and case studies that draw on field research in Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania.
Rat reasoning: A reliability and validity study

Reasoning is a process that permits solving novel problems by allowing items of old information to be combined into new information. Reasoning, where noncontiguously learned behaviors are combined, is different from learning, where contiguously learned behaviors are combined. To assess whether reasoning could be reliably and validly measured in the adult rat, rats were tested on a variation of the radial eight-arm maze designed to measure reasoning. Performance in this task was consistent across days (α =.82) and led to a consistent ranking of the relative abilities of normal unlesioned adult rats. Performance on the reasoning task did not correlate with reliable measures of emotionality or exploration derived from an open-field test. Reasoning performance did correlate with a reliable measure of preference to novelty (Pearson r = 0.58, p =.02); an analogous measure in human infants is known to correlate with subsequent IQs. Thus, the described rat-reasoning measure reliably discriminates performance of normal adult rats, a performance that is not largely determined by emotionality but which is correlated to preference for novelty.
Quantification of protein posttranslational modifications using stable isotope and mass spectrometry I: principles and applications.

Abstract With the increased attention to quality by design (QbD) for biopharmaceutical products, there is a demand for accurate and precise quantification methods to monitor critical quality attributes (CQAs). To address this need we have developed a mass spectrometry (MS) based method to quantify a wide range of posttranslational modifications (PTMs) in recombinant proteins using stable isotope-labeled internal standard (SILIS). The SILIS was produced through metabolic labeling where 15 N was uniformly introduced at every nitrogen atom in the studied proteins. To enhance the accuracy of the method, the levels of PTMs in SILIS were quantified using orthogonal analytical techniques. Digestion of an unknown sample mixed with SILIS generates a labeled and a nonlabeled version of each peptide. The nonlabeled and labeled counterparts coelute during RP-HPLC separation but exhibit a sufficient mass difference to be distinguished by MS detection. With the application of SILIS, numerous PTMs can be quantified in a single analysis based on the measured MS signal ratios of 15 N-labeled versus the nonlabeled pairs. Several examples using microbial and mammalian-expressed recombinant proteins demonstrated the principle and utility of this method. The results indicate that SILIS is a valuable methodology in addressing CQAs for the QbD paradigm.
Abstract T P352: Dantrolene for the Prevention and Treatment of Cerebral Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage - A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial to Assess Safety, Tolerability and Feasibility

Introduction: Dantrolene is neuroprotective in animal models and may attenuate cerebral vasospasm (cVSP) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) in humans. We evaluated safety/tolerability and feasibility of intravenous dantrolene (IV-D) after aSAH. Methods: In this single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 31 patients with acute aSAH were randomized to IV-D 1.25 mg IV every 6 hours x 7 days (n=16) or placebo (n=15). Primary endpoint was incidence of hyponatremia (sNa ≤ 134 mmol/L) and liver toxicity (% patients with ALT, AST and AlkPhos >5x upper limit of normal). Secondary safety endpoints included tolerability, systemic hypotension and intracranial hypertension. Efficacy was explored by clinical, transcranial Doppler (TCD) or angiographic cVSP occurrence, delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and 3-month modified-Rankin-Scale, Glasgow Outcome Scale and Barthel Index. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests, generalized estimating equations and mixed models. Results: Between IV-D vs. placebo, no differences were observed in the primary outcome (hyponatremia: 44% vs. 67% [p=0.29]; liver toxicity 6% vs. 0% [p=1.0]). Numerically more AEs and SAEs were seen in the IV-D group, but did not reach statistical significance (16 vs. 5 AEs, of which 5 vs. 2 were severe; RR 2.2; 95% CI 0.7-6.7; p=0.16). Three IV-D vs. two placebo patients reached stop criteria: one IV-D patient developed liver toxicity; two patients in each group developed brain edema requiring osmotherapy. No differences in angiographic, TCD, clinical cVSP, DCI, or 3-month functional outcomes were seen. Quantitative angiogram analysis revealed a trend towards increased vessel diameters in the IV-D group after the 7-day infusion-period (p=0.05). Conclusion: In this small trial, IV-Dantrolene after aSAH was feasible, tolerable and safe, but was underpowered to show efficacy or outcome differences.
Some Surprises in the Dynamics of M33 and M31

Part of the fun and joy of doing extragalactic astronomy in Northwest Washington has been having Frank Kerr and his colleagues at the University of Maryland as neighbors. So I am offering this contribution as a thank you to Frank for many years of friendship. I am also stretching the subject matter of the symposium, stretching it enough so that M33 and M31 can be considered the far outer parts of our Galaxy.
Pronuclear Fusion Failure: An Alternate Conjugational Pathway in Tetrahymena Thermophila, Induced by Vinblastine

Vinblastine is shown to induce pronuclear fusion failure in conjugating Tetrahymena thermophila. In this alternate conjugational pathway gametic pronuclei are exchanged between conjugants but do not fuse. Each pronucleus undergoes one mitotic division to produce a new macro- and micronucleus. Genetic consequences of pronuclear fusion failure include the following: (1) the progeny are whole genome homozygotes with nuclei derived from single meiotic products, and (2) half of the progeny are heterokaryons with micro- and macronuclei of different genetic origins. These facts make this process extremely useful in strain construction and mutant isolation. The induction of pronuclear fusion failure by vinblastine suggests that microtubules play an essential role in pronuclear fusion.
ADF-1 IS A NONMODULAR TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR THAT CONTAINS A TAF-BINDING MYB-LIKE MOTIF

Adf-1 is an essential Drosophila melanogaster sequence-specific transactivator that binds the promoters of a diverse group of genes. We have performed a comprehensive mapping of the functional domains of Adf-1 to study the role of transactivators in the process of gene activation. Using a series of clustered point mutations and small deletions we have identified regions of Adf-1 required for DNA binding, dimerization, and activation. In contrast to most enhancer-binding factors, the Adf-1 activation regions are nonmodular and depend on an intact protein, including the Adf-1 DNA-binding domain, for activity. Like many transcriptional activators, Adf-1 contains a TFIID-binding domain that can interact with specific TAF subunits. Although TAFs are required for Adf-1-directed activation, TAF binding is not sufficient, suggesting that Adf-1 may direct multiple essential steps during activation. Interestingly, both the TAF-binding domain and the DNA-binding domain contain sequences homologous to those of the Myb family of DNA-binding domains. Thus, Adf-1 has evolved an unusual structure containing two versions of the Myb motif, one that binds DNA and one that binds proteins.
Analysis of the performance of gallium arsenide photoavalanche switches

This work investigates how the dielectric relaxation that occurs after optical absorption can raise the electrical field from below avalanche threshold to above threshold inside a simple GaAs photoconductor. The process of optically raising the electrical field above its initial value we call "dynamic field enhancement." Trade-offs between optical intensity, doping, optical absorption depth, and sample thickness are discussed with respect to obtaining useful performance of a dynamically field enhanced photoavalanche switch. We trace the origin of various contributions to field enhancement and deduce certain bounds on the magnitude of the process. In this work, response time is not considered. From a one-dimensional analysis, we conclude that, in homogeneous photoconductors with ohmic contacts, dynamic field enhancement is limited at low fields to roughly a factor of two increase. We compare our analysis to one- and two-dimensional calculations obtained with computer codes based on a drift/diffusion model.
Vibration Suppression of Planar Truss Structures Utilizing Uniform Damping Control

A variety of methods has been devised for vibrational control of a structure using both passive and active controls. Presented in this paper is a relatively new method for vibration suppression, uniform damping control. This method consists of implementing a control law which tends to dampen each vibrational mode of the structure at the same desireable exponential rate. The unique aspects of this method are that the control law is not explicitly dependent on the structural stiffness, the control forces are directly proportional to the distribution of the structural mass, and the control law is natural and decentralized. The control law was applied to a flexible planar truss structure and the various aspects of implementation of the control law examined are: actuator/sensor number, placement, and the impact of the actuator/sensor number and placement on the necessary control "power" requirements such as peak power loads, total power requirements, etc. Also examined are the effects of using a limited number of active members in terms of the vibrational performance when compared with the "ideal" distributed control law.
Creating Communication Conduits: a Greater Yellowstone Science Learning Center Internship

Communicating scientific endeavors in a manner accessible to researchers, managers, and the public alike is an important, yet often neglected, aspect of conducting studies. For research carried out on Americaâs public lands, including the National Park Serviceâs, this communication is even more important, as we are all owners and stewards of these magnificent ecological and cultural landscapes. This summer, I worked with The Greater Yellowstone Science Learning Center, Grand Teton National Park, and researchers from across the country to augment and enhance the information about current park studies and resource status reports available to the Science Learning Centerâs website visitors. This addition of pertinent information to the website is of value to all those interested in the socio-ecological landscapes the National Park Service is tasked to conserve, scientific studies occurring in Grand Teton National Park, and potential implications of these studies and findings beyond park boundaries. The additions not only reach those who are currently invested in stewardship of our national parks, but also potential stewards with whom we have the unique opportunity to communicate with digitally, vastly expanding science communication and involvement opportunities.
Racism as Health Risk for African-American Males: Correlations Between Hypertension and Skin Color

Racism has dominated the social fabric of American society since its founding. African-American males have been the focal point for various forms of racism given their perception as threatening. Exacerbated by media images the threatening perceptions of African-American males result in racist victimization during encounters with law enforcement agencies for otherwise law abiding citizens. Based upon the constant prevalence of racism in public life African-American males suffer from abnormally high blood pressure. The result is a health risk manifested by a correlation between skin color and hypertension. Social scientists are all but unaware of this phenomenon. Solution to the problem will require more informed research and the elimination of racism in total.
Shockley-Read-Hall lifetimes in CdTe

A combination of first principles electronic structure calculations, Green's function method, and empirical tight-binding Hamiltonian method is used to evaluate the minority carrier lifetimes of CdTe due to recombination via native point defects in CdTe. For defect energy levels near mid-gap, our calculated value of the Shockley-Read-Hall capture cross section for both electrons and holes is ∼10−13 cm2, which is considerably different from the most commonly employed values. We further find that minority carrier lifetimes in doped CdTe are affected more by defect levels closer to the Fermi level than those in the mid-gap.
Random phase model of amorphous semiconductors I. Transport and optical properties

Abstract A model is studied which assumes that, in the conduting states of an amorphous semiconductor, the phase of the probability amplitude for finding an electron on a particular atomic site varies randomly from atom to atom. This “random phase model” is used to calculate the conductivity, thermopower, and optical absorption. Experimental data on conductivity and thermopower are analyzed for three chalcogenide compositions. There is an upper limit on the mobility of about 20 cm 2 /V sec. The matrix element for an optical transition from conducting states to conducting states is shown to be equal to that from conducting states to localized states. Therefore an upper limit of the order of 10 17 eV −1 cm −3 can be put on the density of states in the middle of the energy gap, for some bulk semiconducting glasses. Measurement of optical absorption of low magnitude in the infrared would make it possible to deduce the density of states as a function of energy in the gap.
Objectivity in the news: Finding a way forward

Many media critics believe news reports are inevitably biased and have urged journalists to abandon the objectivity norm. I show that the main arguments for inevitable bias fail but identify factors that make producing objective news difficult. I indicate what the next steps should be to understand bias in the news and to combat it.
MOYER MODEL APPROXIMATIONS FOR POINT AND EXTENDED BEAM LOSSES

Abstract The use of the empirical Moyer model for the determination of transverse neutron shielding for high-energy proton accelerators is described and discussed. It is shown that an important advantage of the Moyer Model is the physical insight it offers towards understanding the complex interactions that comprise the shielding processes. Calculations for pointlike and extended uniform beam loss distributions are discussed and their relationship to practical shielding conditions developed. The calculations required by the model are readily performed on small programmable calculators and thus are widely accessible. Program listings for practical calculations using a Hewlett-Packard HP-97 calculator are available on request.
Counselors' Models of Helping: Addressing the Needs of the Culturally Different Client in School Settings

This study examined the attributions made by school counselors about responsibility for the causes of and solutions to students' problems. A total of 433 school counselors completed an instrument measuring attributions of responsibility and controllability of student problems. The hypothesis was supported that school counselors' attribution styles differ according to counselor ethnicity. Este estudio examino las atribuciones hechas por consejeros de escuela acerca de responsabilidad para las causas de y de las soluciones a los problemas de los estudiantes. Un suma de 433 consejeros de la escuela completo un instrumento que mide atribuciones de responsabilidad y la habilidad de controlar los problemas de los estudiantes. La hipotesis se sostuvo que los estilos de atribucion de los consejeros de escuela se difieren segun el origin etnico del consejero.
Modulation of flavonoid metabolism in Arabidopsis using a phage-derived antibody

The utility of recombinant antibodies for immunomodulation of plant metabolism was tested using the Arabidopsis flavonoid biosynthetic pathway as a target. Two genes encoding antibodies against chalcone isomerase (CHI) were isolated from a human synthetic single chain variable fragment (scFv) library and expressed in the cytoplasm of transgenic plants. In one line, low-level expression of the scFv resulted in reduced visible pigmentation in seedlings as well as lower accumulation of phenolics in plants throughout development. Surprisingly, other transgenic lines with much higher expression of the same antibody showed no phenotype. Protein mobility shift assays indicated that the scFv is bound to the target enzyme, but only in the affected plants. This work shows that recombinant scFv antibody technology offers a viable approach to disrupting protein activity in plants, but that further refinement is required before it will be of general utility for metabolic engineering and other antibody-based applications in plants.
Automatic Border Dectection in the Evaluation of Diastolic Function in Normal Neonates 129

Automatic border detection (ABD) is an alternative method to Doppler echocardiography (DE) for assessment of LV diastolic function. To date, no information is available regarding the utility of ABD to assess diastolic function among normal neonates. Methods: To compare ABD to standard DE parameters and to assess the reproducibility of ABD among observers, we studied 17 normal full-term neonates (mean birth wt 3.5±0.3 kg) at birth (17.4±3.9 hr) and again at 14.8±2.2 days of life to evaluate LV diastolic function by both methods. DE parameters obtained at the mitral leaflet tips were: Peak E-and A-wave velocity; E/A ratio; E, A, and total time velocity integrals (TVI); deceleration time. Rapid and atrial filling fractions were derived from the TVIs. Isovolumic relaxation time was measured. ABD parameters including rapid filling fraction (RFF) area change, atrial filling fraction (AFF) area change, ratio RFF/AFF, peak rapid and atrial filling rates and their ratio were obtained in the short-axis view after proper gain and region of interest were set. An average of 5 cardiac cycles was used for each measurement. Results: No significant change was observed in any ABD or DE parameter between birth and later studies. Interobserver variability for individual ABD measurements ranged from 0-11%. In comparison to DE, the RFF was greater and the AFF was less by ABD. Regression analysis showed only weak correlation between each measure by the 2 methods. However, the relationship between RFF and AFF obtained by each method was constant across the studies. Similarly, weak correlations were observed when peak E velocity by DE and peak rapid filling rate by ABD and peak A velocity by DE and peak atrial filling rate by ABD were compared.Conclusions: (1) Similar to traditional DE parameters, the ABD method showed that no significant change in LV diastolic function occurred in the first 2 weeks of life. (2) Weak correlation between ABD and DE parameters of filling was observed which may relate to technical differences between methods. (3) ABD was a reproducible and reliable method to assess LV diastolic function in neonates.
Management and Outcomes of Postpancreatectomy Fistula, Leak, and Abscess : Results of 908 Patients Resected at a Single Institution Between 2000 and 2005

Background Anastomotic fistula, leak, and abscess are common complications of pancreatectomy. The goal of this study was to describe our current management and outcomes of clinically significant postpancreatectomy fistula, leak, and abscess. Study Design Review of a prospectively maintained database identified 908 patients who underwent pancreatectomy between January 2000 and August 2005. Complication data were prospectively entered into a validated postoperative complication database. Patients were included if they were identified as having a clinically significant (≥grade 2) pancreatic fistula, leak, or abscess. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors predictive of prolonged drainage (> 30 days). Results Clinically significant postoperative fistula, leak, or abscess occurred in 158 of 908 resected patients (17%) and included 63 culture-positive pancreatic fistulas, 29 noninfected pancreatic fistulas, 42 abscesses, and 24 other collections (biliary fistula, culture-negative collection). Surgical drains were placed at the time of initial resection in 88 of these 158 patients (56%). Adequate drainage was obtained by prolonged use of surgical drains in 16 patients (16 of 88 [18%]). Reoperation was required in 26 of the 158 patients (16%). ICU admission was required in 22%. Within this group of 158 patients the mortality rate was 5% (8 of 158; 90 days). At the time of discharge a home health aide was required in 56% of patients, 8% were discharged to a rehabilitation facility, and readmission was required in 50% of patients. Mean drainage time was 38 days (range 3 to 228). Predictors of prolonged drainage included drain output > 200 mL during the first 48 hours (odds ratio=2.88; p=0.02) and distal (versus proximal) pancreatectomy (odds ratio=4.29; p=0.01). Conclusions Although mortality after pancreatectomy has decreased to approximately 2%, the morbidity associated with pancreatic fistula, leak, and abscess remains substantial.
Interference by mannitol and other compounds with phosphate determinations.

Abstract Several organic compounds interfere with the determination of inorganic phosphate via its reaction with ammonium molybate in an acid, reducing milieu. Mannitol is one of those that interfere by complexing with ammonium molybdate. Some modifications of the general technique are presented which increase the mannitol range that can be tolerated.
The effect of deposition temperature on the material and electrical properties of PZT thin films for ULSI DRAM applications

Abstract The effects of deposition temperature on the properties of thin films of sputtered lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) have been studied for ULSI DRAM storage capacitor dielectric applications. The films were deposited by reactive dc magnetron sputtering from a multi-component target. The grain size for the films deposited at 400°C was found to be less than 1000 A, while it was ∼ 10–30 μm for films deposited at 200°C. Small grain-sized material is desirable since it leads to better cell-to-cell uniformity in terms of charge storage capacity and other electrical and reliability properties. The optimum lead compensation was found to increase as the deposition temperature (T dep) increased. Leakage current density stays fairly constant as T dep is varied. As-deposited films, with a deposition temperature of 500°C, were rich in the perovskite phase and showed a high charge storage density of 11.2 μC/cm2 and a low leakage current density of 5.1 × 10−7 A/cm2 (both at 1.5 V). This implies the possibility of e...
Characterization of a fibroblast cell from the urinary bladder wall.

For the first time we report on the growth, culture, and matrix production characteristics of a cell type isolated from the lamina propria of the urinary bladder wall. A fibroblastlike cell was identified as distinct from bladder detrusor smooth muscle cells and urothelium based on morphology, growth characteristics, and immunohistochemical staining. Characterization of extracellular matrix synthesis by this cell type using35S-methionine metabolic labeling demonstrated that these cells are capable of secreting components of the surrounding connective tissue, including several fibrillar collagens, a basement membrane collagen, and fibronectin.
Influenza A viruses: new research developments

Influenza A viruses are zoonotic pathogens that continuously circulate and change in several animal hosts, including birds, pigs, horses and humans. The emergence of novel virus strains that are capable of causing human epidemics or pandemics is a serious possibility. Here, we discuss the value of surveillance and characterization of naturally occurring influenza viruses, and review the impact that new developments in the laboratory have had on our understanding of the host tropism and virulence of viruses. We also revise the lessons that have been learnt from the pandemic viruses of the past 100 years.
Notes from some crypt watchers: regulation of renewal in the mouse intestinal epithelium

The mouse intestinal epithelium undergoes rapid renewal throughout life, thereby requiring continuous coordination of its cellular proliferation, differentiation, and death programs. Recent advances in our understanding of this process have highlighted some of the molecules that regulate renewal and their potential roles in gut neoplasia.
Apparent survival estimation from continuous mark–recapture/resighting data

Summary The recent expansion of continuous-resighting telemetry methods (e.g. acoustic receivers, PIT tag antennae) has created a class of ecological data not well suited for traditional mark–recapture statistics. Estimating survival when continuous recapture data is available ensues a practical problem, because classical capture–recapture models were derived under a discrete sampling scheme that assumes sampling events are instantaneous with respect to the interval between events. To investigate the use of continuous data in survival analysis, we conducted a model structure adequacy simulation that tested the Cormack–Jolly–Seber (CJS) and Barker joint data survival estimation models, which mainly differ through the Barker's inclusion of secondary period information. We simulated a population in which survival and detection occurred as a near continuous (daily) process and collapsed detection information into monthly sampling bins for survival estimation. While both models performed well when survival was time-independent, the CJS was substantially biased for low survival values and time-dependent conditions. Additionally, unlike the CJS, the Barker model consistently performed well over multiple sample sizes (number of marked individuals). However, the high number of parameters in the Barker model led to convergence difficulties, resulting in a need for an alternative optimization method (simulated annealing). We recommend the use of the Barker model when using continuous data for survival analysis, because it outperformed the CJS over a biologically reasonable range of potential parameter values. However, the practical difficulty of implementing the Barker model combined with its shortcomings during two simulations leaves room for the specification of novel statistical methods tailored specifically for continuous mark–resighting data.
Aggregate Safety Stock Levels and Component Part Commonality

The relationship between aggregate safety stock inventory levels and component part commonality is developed. A simulation experiment strongly supports the functional form of this relationship in an uncertain operating environment. Managers can use these equations to assess the trade-offs between aggregate safety stock levels, service level and the degree of component part standardization. For example, these relationships can be used to predict service, inventory level and cost standards for any change in component part commonality.
Outcomes of Right vs. Left Colectomy for Colon Cancer

Right colectomy (RC) is generally believed to be a simpler operation with better outcomes than left colectomy (LC). Our study was primarily intended to compare patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes between RC and LC in colon cancer patients, and secondarily to identify factors that increase the risk of developing postoperative abdominal abscess and/or anastomotic leak. Using the 2007 Nationwide Inpatient Sample database, we evaluated patients who underwent elective RC and LC for colon cancer. A total of 50,799 patients underwent elective RC and LC for malignancy during 2007 (RC, 63.5%; LC, 36.5%). Overall, 9.6% were performed laparoscopically (RC, 9.7% vs. LC, 9.5%, P = 0.39). The majority of patients were Caucasian; 54.2% of RC and 46.5% LC patients were female (P < 0.01). RC patients were older (mean age, 70.8 vs. 65.8 years, P < 0.01) and had more comorbidities. While LC had more overall intraoperative complications (RC, 0.30% vs. LC, 1.32%, P < 0.01), RC had higher overall incidence of postoperative complications (28.43% vs. 26.75%, P < 0.01). Mean length of hospital stay (RC, 7.37 days vs. LC, 7.38 days) and in-hospital mortality (RC, 1.37% vs. LC, 1.49%) were similar in both groups. Multivariate analysis identified Native American race [adjusted odd ratio (AOR), 2.02], chronic renal failure (AOR, 1.97), congestive heart failure (AOR, 1.72), chronic pulmonary disease (AOR, 1.40), metastatic disease (AOR, 1.34), male gender (AOR, 1.23), and LC (AOR, 1.12) all independently increased the risk of abscess and/or leak. RC patients were older and had more comorbidities and postoperative complications. Patient characteristics and comorbidities were more important in determining overall postoperative complications than anastomotic types.
Deoxygenation of aldehydes and ketones; a new general reaction of dibromocarbene and dibromocarbonyl ylides

Abstract The treatment of a variety of aldehydes and ketones with phenyl)tribromomethyl)mercury results in the production of carbon monoxide from the deoxygenation of the carbonyl group by dibromocarbene.
Cooperative Hydrogen-Bond Pairing in Organocatalytic Ring-Opening Polymerization

Thiourea (TU)/amine base cocatalysts are commonly employed for well-controlled, highly active “living” organocatalytic ring-opening polymerizations (ROPs) of cyclic esters and carbonates. In this work, several of the most active cocatalyst pairs are shown by 1H NMR binding studies to be highly associated in solution, dominating all other known noncovalent catalyst/reagent interactions during ROP. One strongly binding catalyst pair behaves kinetically as a unimolecular catalyst species. The high selectivity and activity exhibited by these ROP organocatalysts are attributed to the strong binding between the two cocatalysts, and the predictive utility of these binding parameters is applied for the discovery of a new, highly active cocatalyst pair.
Ethno-nationalism, asymmetric federalism and Soviet perceptions of the past: (World) heritage activism in the Russian Federation:

Despite covering most of the Eurasian continent and recently reclaiming its position as a geopolitical heavyweight, the (world) heritage agenda of the Russian Federation remains relatively unexplor...
MiTexCube: MicroTextCluster Cube for online analysis of text cells and its applications

A fundamental problem of multidimensional text database analysis is efficient and effective support of various kinds of online applications, such as summarizing the content of a text cell or comparing the contents across multiple text cells. In this paper, we propose a new infrastructure called MicroTextCluster Cube or MiTexCube to support efficient online text analysis on multidimensional text databases by introducing micro-clusters of text documents as a compact representation of text content. Experimental results on real multidimensional text databases show that i MiTexCube can be materialized efficiently with reasonable overhead in space, and ii applications based on the proposed materialized MiTexCube are more efficient than the baseline method of direct analysis based on document units in each cell, without sacrificing much quality of analysis, and MiTexCube naturally accommodates flexible trade-off between efficiency and quality of analysis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining 6: 243-259, 2013
New Single-Mode Fiber Polarization Scrambler

Abstract A new single-mode fiber polarization scrambler based upon a simple fiber-ring structure and usable with a narrowband light source is described. The degree of polarization decreases by more than −20 dB when the input is 100% polarized. Design criteria and principles are discussed. We demonstrate that the polarization scrambler eliminates the effects of induced polarization fluctuation in a polarization-sensitive fiber-optic system.
Skeletonization as a Probe of Interlayer Correlations in Langmuir−Blodgett Films

In 1937 Katherine Blodgett demonstrated that immersingcertainLangmuir-Blodgett (LB) films inbenzene for short periods of time “skeletonized” the films.1 She determined, using optical interference methods on optically-thick multilayers, that the refractive index of the skeletonized films was reduced but the film thickness remained approximately equal to that of the original film. She hypothesized that the skeletonization removed some molecules, resulting in gaps throughout the filmsbut that the overall film retained its integrity. Since the films successfully skeletonized are prepared at a pH lower than necessary for full conversion of free acid to soap, it is reasonable to assume that themolecules removed by dissolution in benzene correspond to the free acid and that the molecules converted to soap remain in the film. The kinetics of this skeletonization process and the optical constants of the resulting films have been previously studied.1-5 However, the details of themixing of acid and soap molecules and, hence, the structure of the skeletonized film have remained a mystery.
The rôle of the calyx and poison gland of Cardiochiles nigriceps in the host-parasitoid relationship☆

Abstract Parasitism of Heliothis virescens by Cardiochiles nigriceps reduced the growth of the host. Both the poison gland and the calyx of the female parasitoid were important in reducing the growth of the parasitized host. Injections of poison gland contents (0·04 gl/larva) or calyx fluid (0·04 gl/larva) into H. virescens larvae did not affect their growth. However, a mixture of the two glands (1:1) at this low dosage significantly reduced the weight gained by Heliothis larvae . Heliothis larvae parasitized by parasitoids from which the poison gland was removed (poi gl − females) grew significantly larger than those larvae parasitized by either a normal female or by a female from which the alkaline gland was removed (alk gl − female). The injection of poison gland material (0·04 gl/larva) into larvae which were parasitized by poi gl − females reduced the weight of these larvae to within the limits of larvae parasitized by normal females. The development of larval parasitoids which hatched from eggs of poi gl − females is abnormal. The time of larval development for the parasitoids from poi gl − females is significantly longer than that for the parasitoids from normal females or from alk gl − females. In addition 34 per cent of parasitoids from poi gl − females did not successfully complete development whereas only 10 per cent of the parasitoids from normal and alk gl − females failed to complete development. Injection of poison gland contents into a host parasitized by poi gl − females allowed normal larval development of the parasitoid. These results suggest that the poison gland material and the calyx fluid act synergistically to regulate the growth of parasitized H. virescens larvae. It is speculated that the reason for abnormal development of the larval parasitoids from poi gl − females is because of the lack of control of the host development in the absence of the poison gland material.
Illustrating the Use of Statistical Experimental Design and Analysis for Multiresponse Prediction and Optimization

This article illustrates statistically designed experiments and their analysis with plastic propellers in the typical prototype development situation where there are multiple responses.
Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes for p-Type Ohmic Contacts to GaN Light-Emitting Diodes

Homogeneous films of pure single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) sufficiently thin to be optically transparent in the visible range of the spectrum were employed as p-Ohmic contacts on GaN-InGaN quantum-well light-emitting diodes. The specific contact resistance of the SWNT films on the p-GaN was 1.1 x 10 -2 Ω cm 2 after annealing at 700°C for 60 s under N 2 , which was a factor of 3 lower than standard Ni/Au contacts on the same p-GaN. The SWNT-contacted LEDs showed bright blue emission centered at 434 nm and demonstrate that the SWNT films provide a new class of electrically conducting, p-type, transparent electrode for use with photonic devices.
Technology rejection: the case of the wallet phone

Purpose – A wallet phone is a type of cell phone that is used for storage of all information, including identification, pictures, even airline tickets. This study seeks to understand consumer rejection of a technology, specifically wallet phone technology, using the technology acceptance model.Design/methodology/approach – Two studies were conducted using different samples in order to assess the differences in a student sample and a more diverse sample. In the first study, 226 students were sampled. In the second study, an online survey was conducted through a consumer panel and 480 surveys were collected. Structural equation modeling was used for analysis in order to test the hypothesized relationships.Findings – The findings suggest that a wallet phone is not seen by consumers as either easy to use or useful, as both were not found to be significant in their influence on attitudes toward wallet phones. Perceived risk was found to be significant. In addition, security and privacy were found to have a neg...
Use of specific endonuclease cleavage in RNA sequencing - an enzymic method for distinguishing between cytidine and uridine residues

The extracellular ribonuclease I of the common slime mold physarum polycephalum (RNase Phy1), which has recently been purified to homogeneity, has been used to distinguish between C and U residues in 3'-end-labeled oligoribonucleotides. As shown by Bargetzi and coworkers, this enzyme exhibits strong cleavage preference for U-N over C-N and N-C over N-U bonds. In the present paper, conditions are being detailed, which enable one to deduce the sequences of rather large, pyrimidine-rich, terminally labeled oligonucleotides by partial digestion with RNases U2, A, and Phy1, followed by resolution of the cleavage products by size. The techniques described in this and a previous communication provide a direct means for identifying A, G, C, and U residues in end-labeled polyribonucleotides.
Abstract 3863: Aneuploid human colonic epithelial cells are sensitive to AICAR-induced growth inhibition through EGFR degradation

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Trisomy for chromosome 7 is frequently observed as an initiating event in sporadic colorectal cancer. Although unstable chromosome numbers and recurrent aneuploidies drive a large fraction of human cancers, targeted therapies selective to pre-neoplastic trisomic cells are non-existent. We have previously characterized a trisomy 7 cell line (1CT+7) spontaneously derived from normal diploid human colonic epithelial cells that aberrantly express the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, located on 7p11). Recent studies identified AICAR as a pharmacological inhibitor of aneuploid murine fibroblast proliferation. Here, we report that AICAR induces profound cytostatic and metabolic effects on 1CT+7 cells but not their isogenic diploid counterpart. Dose-response assays demonstrate that 1CT+7 cells are four-fold preferentially sensitive to AICAR compared to diploid cells. Unexpectedly, treatment of 1CT+7 cells with AICAR led to a reversible 3.5-fold reduction (p=0.0025) in EGFR overexpression. AICAR-induced depletion of EGFR protein can be abrogated through inhibition of the proteasome with MG132. AICAR also heavily promoted EGFR ubiquitination in cell-based immunoprecipitation assays, suggesting enhanced degradation of EGFR protein mediated by the proteasome. Moreover, treatment with AICAR reduced EGFR protein levels in a panel of human colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in xenograft tumors in vivo. Our data collectively supports the pharmacological compound AICAR as a novel inhibitor of EGFR protein abundance and as a potential therapeutic agent for aneuploidy-driven colorectal cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3863. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3863
Material property assessment and crack identification of recycled concrete with embedded smart cement modules

In this paper, the material property assessment and crack identification of concrete using embedded smart cement modules are presented. Both the concrete samples with recycled aggregates (RA) and natural aggregates (NA) were prepared. The smart cement modules were fabricated and embedded in concrete beams to serve as either the actuators or sensors, and the elastic wave propagation-based technique was developed to detect the damage (crack) in the recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) beams and monitor the material degradation of RAC beams due to the freeze/thaw (F/T) conditioning cycles. The damage detection results and elastic modulus reduction monitoring data demonstrate that the proposed smart cement modules and associated damage detection and monitoring techniques are capable of identifying crack-type damage and monitoring material degradation of the RAC beams. Both the RAC and natural aggregate concrete (NAC) beams degrade with the increased F/T conditioning cycles. Though the RAC shows a lower reduction percentage of the modulus of elasticity from both the dynamic modulus and wave propagation tests at the given maximum F/T conditioning cycle (i.e., 300 in this study), the RAC tends to degrade faster after the 180 F/T cycles. As observed in this study, the material properties and degradation rate of RAC are comparable to those of NAC, thus making the RAC suitable for transportation construction. The findings in development of damage detection and health monitoring techniques using embedded smart cement modules resulted from this study promote the widespread application of recycled concrete in transportation construction and provide viable and effective health monitoring techniques for concrete structures in general.
Distributions concentrated along the instantaneous frequency

We show that for purely frequency modulated signals one can always find a distribution which is infinitely concentrated along its instantaneous frequency. For signals that are both frequency and amplitude modulated we consider a class of distribution which are explicit functionals of the instantaneous frequency. lated© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Agoraphobia: a superstitious conditioning perspective.

The disabling escape and avoidance behaviors of agoraphobics are known to be psychological sequelae to the onset of apparently spontaneous attacks of severe anxiety. Evidence is cited in favor of t...
On the dichroism of certain Co(III) complexes

Abstract Recent observations on the dichroism of certain diamagnetic cobaltic complexes are interpreted in terms of crystal field theory. Detailed agreement is obtained between theory and experiment, by recognizing the nature of the relevant transitions as electronically forbidden.
Creep properties of molybdenum silicide intermetallics containing boron

AbstractAlloys with the nominal composition Mo-12Si-8.5B (at. %) were prepared by arc-melting and drop casting. They consisted of approximately 38 vol% α-Mo in a brittle matrix of Mo3Si and Mo5SiB2. Screening tests were carried out to assess their oxidation resistance. Their high temperature strength was investigated in tensile creep (constant applied stress) and in compression (constant applied crosshead speed) at temperatures ranging from about 1200 to 1400°C and stresses ranging from 50 to 540 MPa. A phenomenological creep equation describing the creep strength of this material was derived.
Myocardial Infarction and Ventricular Aneurysm in a Patient with Normal Coronary Arteries

A 64-year-old man is reported with a clinical history and electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial infarction. He was found to have a ventricular aneurysm and normal coronary arteries at cardiac catheterization.
Mechanisms of chromation hematoxylin stains.

In chromation hematoxylin sequence stains of Weigert-Smith-Dietrich type an exploration is presented of the nature of chromium binding tissue end groups, of the valency of the bound chromium and of the mechanisms and conditions of its binding.