cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling the effective complex permittivity of heterogeneous breast tissue and comparison with relaxation models at millimeters wave frequencies

The contrast in dielectric properties between normal and malignant tissues is a basis for diagnostic applications using microwave devices. The study of normal tissues has been widely reviewed. Experimentally determined permittivity values tend to have larger inaccuracies as frequency increases due to the increased complexity of the measurement. Furthermore, it is anticipated that most tissues, especially those of high water content, will be increasingly lossy at the mm (millimeter) wave band. The goal of this paper is to model the heterogeneity of breast tissues using computer aided design so that dielectric properties at higher frequencies could be compared to the measurements. This goal will be achieved by designing and simulating a model that mimics the human breast tissue. The proposal is timely because of recent advances in software for finite element modeling of any system, coupled with greatly improved computing speeds and hence accurate results. We will start by introducing an electromagnetic model for the human breast tissue based on water content and compute its effective dielectric permittivity followed by a comparison of our results with prediction of relaxation models and available experimental results.
Immunohistochemical localization of tissue factor pathway inhibitor-1 (TFPI-1), a Kunitz proteinase inhibitor, in Alzheimer's disease

Senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are composed principally of A beta, a 4 kDa fragment of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Longer forms of APP which contain a Kunitz proteinase inhibitor (KPI) domain are elevated in aged and in AD brains. Tissue factor pathway inhibitor-1 (TFPI) contains three tandem KPI domains and has been well characterized for its role as a natural anticoagulant in the extrinsic coagulation pathway. Functionally, the first two KPI domains of TFPI bind and inhibit the activity of factor Xa and VIIa respectively. In addition, TFPI and APP-KPI share a common clearance mechanism through the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP). As part of an ongoing study of the role of KPI-containing proteins in AD, the current study examines TFPI localization in the brain. We report here that TFPI is immunohistochemically localized to microglia in both AD and non-AD individuals and is localized to some senile plaques in AD. Western blot analyses indicate that the amount of TFPI is elevated in frontal cortex samples from AD brains. We propose that TFPI may play a cell specific role in proteinase regulation in the brain.
Black and White Chains of Risk for Hospitalization Over 20 Years

Drawing from the life course perspective, racial disparities in hospitalization are considered in light of a chain of risk. We ask whether race influences admission to, length of stay in, and mortality following hospitalization. Analyses address these questions with data from a national longitudinal sample of adults to assess racial disparities in the hospitalization experience (n = 6,833). Survey data were merged with hospital records abstracted over 20 years of observation. Multivariate analyses revealed that there were no racial differences in admission, but that black adults generally had longer stays. When isolating each stay prospectively, black adults had longer stays during the first, third, and fourth hospitalizations. Post-hospital mortality after the first stay was also higher for black adults than for their white counterparts, even after controlling for morbidity and status resources. The findings suggest that the racial disparities in hospital length of stay and mortality are explained by the cumulative effects of social and health inequalities over the life course.
Scale-Up of the Preparation of (1R,2R,4S)-1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-2-(4-morpholinyl)cyclohexanol§

Chiral β-amino alcohols are widely recognized as effective chiral auxiliaries for a variety of asymmetric organic transformations. Recently, (1R,2R,4S)-1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-2-(4-morpholinyl...
Effect of in vitro ketoconazole on steroid production in rat testis.

Abstract In an attempt to confirm where in the testosterone (T) biosynthetic pathway of the rat testis ketoconazole (KTZ) inhibits T production, rat testicular mince was incubated with either 10 μg/ml or 100 μg/ml KTZ in the presence and absence of hCG (1 IU), and intratesticular pregnenolone (Δ 5 P), progesterone (P), 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17α-HP), androstenedione (A) and testosterone (T) were assayed. In the absence of hCG, 10 μg/ml KTZ was sufficient to reduce intratesticular T by 80%. At this concentration of KTZ, intratesticular 17α-HP (ng/g testis, mean ± SEM) increased from 0.3 ± 0.1 to 1.3 ± 0.2 (p
Multivariate Statistical Analysis for Detection and Identification of Faulty Sensors Using Latent Variable Methods

In this paper, three latent variable methods are implemented in a multivariate statistical analysis scheme for detecting and identifying faults in a multi-sensor network. The proposed methods are applied to a sensor network monitoring a MDOF dynamical system and the results are presented, compared and discussed.
Traffic-aware channel assignment in wireless LANs

Campus and enterprise wireless networks are increasingly characterized by ubiquitous coverage and high traffic demands. An efficient channel assignment of access points (APs) in these networks has the potential to greatly improve wireless LAN performance. Therefore, previous studies have investigated methods for determining effective channel assignments. Existing approaches, however, do not adapt to prevailing traffic conditions in the network. An analysis of wireless traces (e.g. [2]) shows that traffic volume in a wireless LAN can vary significantly across APs. Motivated by this observation, we investigate whether the quality of a channel assignment can be improved by incorporating observed traffic demands at APs and clients in wireless networks. Our results show that being traffic-aware can substantially improve the effectiveness of a channel assignment: in some cases it nearly doubles performance. We further apply traffic demand prediction algorithms to make traffic-aware assignment practical.
Accuracy of the Edgeworth Approximation for Lolp Calculations in Small Power Systems

Because they speed numerical calculations and exhibit functional dependences, Edgeworth-type series are increasingly used to approximate and calculate LOLP's. They are usually sufficiently accurate for large power systems (> 15 000 MW), but can be very inaccurate for small systems or those with low forced outage rates. This is because the approximating Edgeworth-type series are appropriate only for continuous probability densities, while discrete lattice-type density functions describe a typical power systems's probability properties. This paper investigates these inaccuracies for small systems (< 5000 MW), working out specific examples in a numerical approach and examining underlying functional dependences in an analytic approach.
"Chromosome kissing" and modulation of replication termination.

Previously, inter-chromosomal interactions called “chromosome kissing” have been reported to control tissue-specific transcription and cell fate determination. Using the fission yeast as a model system we have shown that physiologically programmed replication termination is also modulated by chromosome kissing. The published report reviewed here shows that a myb-like replication terminator protein Reb1 of S. pombe and its cognate binding sites (Ter are involved in chromosome kissing that promotes a cooperative mechanism of replication termination. We also suggest that at least one other replication terminator protein namely Sap1, which is also an origin binding protein, is likely to be involved in a similar mechanism of control not only of fork arrest but also of replication initiation and in possible ori-Ter interaction. We discuss the roles of chromatin remodeling and other proteins in this novel mechanism of replication control.
Stakeholder participation in evaluation design: Is it worth the effort?

Abstract Using a utilization-oriented participatory evaluation case study methodology, this research project is investigating (a) the hypothesized link between participation and evaluation use, (b) the theoretical and operational dimensions of participatory evaluation, and (c) the possible conflicts between use and quality within participatory approaches to evaluation. This paper reports on the design phase of two case study evaluations being conducted in cooperation with two small local human service agencies. The participatory design process used is described, and the nature and meaningfulness of stakeholder participation in this process is reviewed. A concluding assessment of the value of stakeholder participation in evaluation design yields a qualified “yes.”
Schiff base protonation changes in Siberian hamster ultraviolet cone pigment photointermediates.

Molecular structure and function studies of vertebrate ultraviolet (UV) cone visual pigments are needed to understand the molecular evolution of these photoreceptors, which uniquely contain unprotonated Schiff base linkages between the 11-cis-retinal chromophore and the opsin proteins. In this study, the Siberian hamster ultraviolet cone pigment (SHUV) was expressed and purified in an n-dodecyl-β-d-maltoside suspension for optical characterization. Time-resolved absorbance measurements, over a spectral range from 300 to 700 nm, were taken for the purified pigment at time delays from 30 ns to 4.64 s after photoexcitation using 7 ns pulses of 355 nm light. The resulting data were fit globally to a sum of exponential functions after noise reduction using singular-value decomposition. Four exponentials best fit the data with lifetimes of 1.4 μs, 210 μs, 47 ms, and 1 s. The first photointermediate species characterized here is an equilibrated mixture similar to the one formed after rhodopsin’s Batho intermedia...
Behavioral and developmental effects in suckling mice following maternal exposure to the mycotoxin secalonic acid D.

Pregnant mice (dams) were gavaged once on gestational day 13 with 4 ml/kg of dimethylsulfoxide vehicle containing 0 (groups 15, 25 and negative control) or 25 (positive behavioral teratogenic control group) mg/kg of secalonic acid D (SAD). While nursing their offspring, dams were gavaged on postgestational days 1 to 10 with vehicle containing 0 (negative and positive control groups), 15 (group 15) or 25 (group 25) mg/kg/day of SAD. Gestational lengths, maternal pregnancy weights, litter sizes, neonatal sex ratios, neonatal physical appearance and female birth weights were unaffected by prenatal treatment, but male pups born to positive control dams weighed less (p<0.05) than negative control group. Compared to negative control, the positive control dams gained significantly more weight while nursing their offspring. Prenatal (positive control) and postnatal (15,25) SAD exposure delayed ontogeny of surface righting, olfactory discrimination and hindlimb grip behaviors in males and females, and testes descent in males. Negative geotaxis in male and female offspring of group 25 and male offspring of positive control group, as well as times of incisor eruptions of both sexes in groups 15 and 25 were delayed. A significant dose-response effect in olfactory discrimination existed between the groups exposed to postnatal SAD. SAD was behaviorally teratogenic following both prenatal and early postnatal exposure.
Interdiffusion in Polyimide Thin Films

The interdiffusion in thin films of polyimide has been investigated using the forward recoil spectrometry (FRES) technique. Films 5–10 µm in thickness of polyamic acid spin coated onto a silicon substrate were imidized at a temperature TI. A second film, ∼300A in thickness of perdeuterated polyamic acid was spin-coated onto the first layer and heated to a temperature TD to allow interdiffusion of the two films and imidization of the second coating. Depth profiling of the deuterated polymer by FRES showed that no interdiffusion occurred if TI>TD and TI>200°C. Substantial interdiffusion occurred if TD>TI and TI 2.5× 10−14 cm2/sec) which decreases to a negligible value as the molecule is fully converted to the corresponding polyimide.
Interaction of drive and incentive motivation under deprivation and satiation

Two groups of rats were trained to run a straight alley under food deprivation (D) with reward being 2 or 10 food pellets (K). Subsequently, both groups were tested under relative food satiation. No D by K interaction was observed, but a significant K effect also failed to occur. A progressive reduction in consummatory behavior was associated with a decline in running during satiation which was interpreted as indicating the extinction of K.
Oncolytic viruses for the treatment of malignant glioma

Malignant glioma is the most common primary malignancy of the human CNS. Despite decades of research, the current therapeutic strategy consists of a multimodal regimen of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. This course of therapy yields a median survival after diagnosis of ∼ 1 year. This dismal prognosis inspires the ongoing development of novel oncolytic agents targeting glioma, which include gene therapy, immunomodulatory therapy and oncolytic viruses. Oncolytic viruses are defined by their ability to target, replicate in and lyse tumour cells without critically damaging surrounding non-cancerous tissue. Although some viruses are naturally oncolytic and tumour-selective, the advent of modern recombinant DNA technology has allowed the engineering of additional viruses with improved therapeutic indices. This technological advance has enabled rapid growth in the field of viral therapy. Reovirus, Newcastle disease virus (NDV), measles virus, adenovirus, poliovirus and herpes simplex virus-1 are in preclini...
Mercury Exposure in Young Adulthood and Incidence of Diabetes Later in Life: The CARDIA trace element study

OBJECTIVE Laboratory studies suggest that exposure to methylmercury at a level similar to those found in fish may induce pancreatic islet β-cell dysfunction. Few, if any, human studies have examined the association between mercury exposure and diabetes incidence. We examined whether toenail mercury levels are associated with incidence of diabetes in a large prospective cohort. RESEACH DESIGN AND METHODS A prospective cohort of 3,875 American young adults, aged 20–32 years, free of diabetes in 1987 (baseline), were enrolled and followed six times until 2005. Baseline toenail mercury levels were measured with instrumental neutron-activation analysis. Incident diabetes was identified by plasma glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance tests, hemoglobin A1C levels, and/or antidiabetes medications. RESULTS A total of 288 incident cases of diabetes occurred over 18 years of follow-up. In multivariate analyses adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, study center, education, smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, family history of diabetes, intakes of long-chain n-3 fatty acids and magnesium, and toenail selenium, toenail mercury levels were positively associated with the incidence of diabetes. The hazard ratio (95% CI) of incident diabetes compared the highest to the lowest quintiles of mercury exposure was 1.65 (1.07–2.56; P for trend = 0.02). Higher mercury exposure at baseline was also significantly associated with decreased homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function index ( P for trend CONCLUSIONS Our results are consistent with findings from laboratory studies and provide longitudinal human data suggesting that people with high mercury exposure in young adulthood may have elevated risk of diabetes later in life.
Normal pharmacological and morphometric parameters in the noradrenergic hyperinnervated mutant mouse, "tottering".

Pharmacological and anatomical analyses of central monoaminergic and cholinergic neurons were performed in the “tottering” mouse, an autosomal recessive neurologic gene mutation that results in an overproduction of axons of the locus coeruleus and an increase in norepinephrine content in specific terminal fields. Except for the previously reported increase in norepinephrine content, all pharmacological parameters measured, including tyrosine hydroxylase activity, norepinephrine turnover, serotonin content, and choline acetyltransferase activity, in targets hyperinnervated by the locus coeruleus were normal. Immunocytochemical staining for tyrosine hydroxylase demonstrated the pronounced hyperinnervation in the “tottering” brain, whereas both serotonin and choline acetyltransferase immunostaining were similar between “tottering” and wild type. The volume of 3 target areas that are hyperinnervated by the locus coeruleus in the “tottering” mouse, the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cochlear nuclei, were normal. In addition, neuronal number and somal size in the locus coeruleus were found to be unchanged in the mutant genotype. These data demonstrate several features of the effects of the “tottering” gene: 1) compensatory changes in several adrenergic pharmacological parameters do not occur in response to the hyperinnervation of targets by locus coeruleus axons; 2) neither direct effects of the “tottering” gene on, nor compensatory changes in, the extent of cholinergic or serotonergic innervation of several targets of the locus coeruleus appear to occur; and 3) the lack of changes in size of the targets of the locus coeruleus suggest that the hyperinnervation in the “tottering” mouse is due to a direct genetic alteration of axonal growth by the locus coeruleus neurons, rather than to selective shrinkage of targets in the presence of normal terminal arbors.
Earthmover-simulation tool for earthwork planning

The paper presents EarthMover, a discrete event special purpose simulation modeling tool for earthwork planning, geared towards practitioners. The paper explores the capabilities of the system by modeling an earth moving operation of moderate complexity. The operation is initially modeled with default parameters and is sucessively improved based on insights obtained from the static and dynamic outputs of the previous model. The paper also describes the tools and techniques that were used to develop the simulator.
Constrained best approximation in Hilbert space III. Applications to n -convex functions

This paper continues the study of best approximation in a Hilbert spaceX from a subsetK which is the intersection of a closed convex coneC and a closed linear variety, with special emphasis on application to then-convex functions. A subtle separation theorem is utilized to significantly extend the results in [4] and to obtain new results even for the “classical” cone of nonnegative functions. It was shown in [4] that finding best approximations inK to anyf inX can be reduced to the (generally much simpler) problem of finding best approximations to a certain perturbation off from either the coneC or a certain subconeC F. We will show how to determine this subconeC F, give the precise condition characterizing whenC F=C, and apply and strengthen these general results in the practically important case whenC is the cone ofn-convex functions inL 2 (a,b),
Function of the htrB High Temperature Requirement Gene of Escherichia coli in the Acylation of Lipid A: HtrB CATALYZED INCORPORATION OF LAURATE (∗)

By assaying lysates of Escherichia coli generated with the hybrid λ bacteriophages of an ordered library (Kohara, Y., Akiyama, K., and Isono, K.(1987) Cell 50, 495-508), we identified two clones (λ232 and λ233) capable of overexpressing the lauroyl transferase that functions after 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonic acid (Kdo) addition in lipid A biosynthesis (Brozek, K. A., and Raetz, C. R. H.(1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 15410-15417). The E. coli DNA inserts in λ232 and λ233 suggested that a known gene (htrB) required for rapid growth above 33°C might encode the lauroyl transferase. Using the intermediate (Kdo)2-lipid IVA as the laurate acceptor, extracts of strains with transposon insertions in htrB were found to contain no lauroyl transferase activity. Cells harboring hybrid htrB+ plasmids overproduced transferase activity 100-200-fold. The overproduced transferase was solubilized with a non-ionic detergent and purified further by DEAE-Sepharose chromatography. With lauroyl acyl carrier protein as the donor, the purified enzyme rapidly incorporated one laurate residue into (Kdo)2-lipid IVA. The rate of laurate incorporation was reduced by several orders of magnitude when either one or both Kdos were absent in the acceptor. With a matched set of acyl-acyl carrier proteins, the enzyme incorporated laurate 3-8 times faster than decanoate or myristate, respectively. Transfer of palmitate, palmitoleate, or R-3-hydroxymyristate was very slow. Taken together with previous studies, our findings indicate that htrB encodes a key, late functioning acyltransferase of lipid A biosynthesis.
Systemic yoyo model and applications in Newton's, Kepler's laws, and others

Purpose – This paper aims to show that systemic methods and thinking can be used to develop useful tools to address problems open in traditional science, such as Newtonian physics, universal gravitation, planetary motions, and the three‐body problem.Design/methodology/approach – Expanded on the yoyo model introduced earlier for general systems, a new figurative analysis method is introduced in this paper.Findings – After establishing its theoretical and empirical foundations, this method is used to generalize Newton's laws of mechanics by addressing several unsettled problems in the history. Through the concept of equal quantitative effects, it is argued that this new method possesses some strength not found in pure quantitative methods. After studying the characteristics of whole evolutions of converging and diverging fluid motions, the concept of time is revisited using the new model. As further applications of the new method, one covers Kepler's laws of planetary motion, Newton's law of universal gravi...
Cape Wrath: a New Kemerovo Group Orbivirus from Ixodes Uriae (Agari: Ixodidae) in Scotland

Cape Wrath virus is a new member of the Kemerovo serogroup of orbiviruses, isolated from an engorged female Ixodes uriae collected from a Common Murre ( Una aalge ) colony in northern Scotland during June 1973. This agent cross-reacts by complement-fixation, but not by neutralization, with other viruses of the Kemerovo-Tribec complex that have been recovered from I. uriae in other parts of the world. Cape Wrath virus is sensitive to acidic pH (3.0), partially sensitive to sodium deoxycholate, and relatively resistant to ether and chloroform. The virus kills suckling, but not weanling, mice by intracerebral and intraperitoneal inoculation. No evidence of infection was detected in baby chicks inoculated intracerebrally or subcutaneously. Virus did not multiply in Aedes aegypti, Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus , or Anopheles quadrimaculatus following intrathoracic inoculation. Little, if any, specific neutralizing antibody against Cape Wrath virus was detected in sera from Fratercula arctica, Oceanodroma leucorhoa, Larus argentatus , and Larus marinus collected in Newfoundland, Canada.
Building an Information System Design Theory for Vigilant EIS

This paper defines an information system design theory ISDT to be a prescriptive theory which integrates normative and descriptive theories into design paths intended to produce more effective information systems. The nature of ISDTs is articulated using Dubin's concept of theory building and Simon's idea of a science of the artificial. An example of an ISDT is presented in the context of Executive Information Systems EIS. Despite the increasing awareness of the potential of EIS for enhancing executive strategic decision-making effectiveness, there exists little theoretical work which directly guides EIS design. We contend that the underlying theoretical basis of EIS can be addressed through a design theory of vigilant information systems. Vigilance denotes the ability of an information system to help an executive remain alertly watchful for weak signals and discontinuities in the organizational environment relevant to emerging strategic threats and opportunities. Research on managerial information scanning and emerging issue tracking as well as theories of open loop control are synthesized to generate vigilant information system design theory propositions. Transformation of the propositions into testable empirical hypotheses is discussed.
Intestinal inflammatory cytokine response in relation to tumorigenesis in the Apc(Min/+) mouse

The etiology of colon cancer is a complex phenomenon that involves both genetic and environmental factors. However, only about 20% have a familial basis with the largest fraction being attributed to environmental causes that can lead to chronic inflammation. While the link between inflammation and colon cancer is well established, the temporal sequence of the inflammatory response in relation to tumorigenesis has not been characterized. We examined the timing and magnitude of the intestinal inflammatory cytokine response in relation to tumorigenesis in the Apc(Min/+) mouse. Apc(Min/+) mice and wildtype mice were sacrificed at one of 4 time-points: 8, 12, 16, and 20 weeks of age. Intestinal tissue was analyzed for polyp burden (sections 1, 4 and 5) and mRNA expression and protein concentration of MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α (sections 2 and 3). The results show that polyp burden was increased at 12, 16 and 20 weeks compared to 8 weeks (P<0.05). Gene expression (mRNA) of MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α was increased in sections 2 and 3 starting at week 12 (P<0.05), with further increases in MCP-1, IL-1β and IL-6 at 16 weeks (P<0.05). Protein concentration for these cytokines followed a similar pattern in section 3. Similarly, circulating MCP-1 was increased at 12 weeks (P<0.05) and then again at 20 weeks (P<0.05). In general, overall polyp number and abundance of large polyps were significantly correlated with the inflammatory cytokine response providing further support for a relationship between polyp progression and these markers. These data confirm the association between intestinal cytokines and tumorigenesis in the Apc(Min/+) mouse and provide new information on the timing and magnitude of this response in relation to polyp development. These findings may lead to the development of inflammatory mediators as important biomarkers for colon cancer progression. Further, these data may be relevant in the design of future investigations of therapeutic interventions to effectively target inflammatory processes in rodent models.
Chiral symmetry, quenched fermions, non-relativistic quarks, η's and glueballs

It is suggested that spontaneous chiral symmetry breaking, occuring prior to confinement, accounts for the successes of the non-relativistic quark model and quenched fermion Monte Carlo calculations. The validity and shortcomings of the latter are discussed, particularly with respect to glueballs and flavor-neutral mesons.
Message and conceptual confounds in fear appeals: The role of threat, fear, and efficacy

While many scholars “know” a fear appeal when they hear one, few can define exactly what causes a message to be categorized as a fear appeal. This lack of specificity in operationalizations of fear appeals may have contributed to the diverse empirical literature. This essay attempts to identify the methodological and conceptual confounds in the literature. First, the structural, style, and extra‐message features of fear appeals are defined. Then, study design issues are discussed. Finally, the empirical literature is analyzed. Recommendations are offered for those conducting research.
Urethral atresia and anhydramnios at 18 weeks of gestation can result in normal development

Abstract Introduction Second-trimester anhydramnios is incompatible with survival unless amniotic fluid volume is restored. We describe the long-term outcome of a child with documented anhydramnios at 17 weeks. Case report A 28-year-old gravida II had anhydramnios at 17 weeks. At 19 weeks, the bladder measured 12 cm, and karyotype was XY. At 21 weeks, a fistula between the bladder and the amniotic space developed. At 36 weeks, a 2800 g boy with prune belly phenotype was delivered. The urachus was patent and drained urine. There was a completely obstructing membrane below the veru montanum and a hypoplastic urethra distal to it. The right kidney had no function and the left had grade V reflux. A P.A.D.U.A. (progressive augmentation by dilatating the urethra anterior) procedure was performed and the urachal fistula closed. At 6 months of age abdominoplasty, bilateral orchidopexy, right nephrectomy and left to right transuretero-ureterostomy were performed. At age 30 months he was toilet trained, with creatinine 0.5 mg/dl and normal growth. At 10 years of age he continues to be continent, with serum creatinine 0.9 mg/dl. Conclusion Resolution of anhydramnios at 21 weeks of gestation can result in normal pulmonary function and acceptable renal and bladder function in childhood. Efforts to develop effective methods of fetal bladder decompression should continue.
Effects of pinealectomy and melatonin treatment on liver and plasma metabolites in the goldfish, Carassius auratus.

Abstract The effects of pineal removal on daily variations and levels of some liver and plasma metabolites were examined in the goldfish, Carassius auratus . Pinealectomy abolishes the liver glycogen daily variation and decreases hepatic glycogen levels in goldfish maintained on specific photoperiod regimes during spring and summer. Neither the daily variation nor the levels of hepatic glycogen are affected by pinealectomy during the fall. Pinealectomy alters the plasma glucose daily variation and increases the levels of this metabolite in fishes maintained on long photoperiods during the summer. During the fall the daily variation of plasma glucose is abolished by pinealectomy and blood sugar levels are decreased. The diurnal fluctuation of plasma lipid is altered by pinealectomy during the summer. Plasma lipid levels are elevated in pinealectomized fishes during winter, spring, and summer. The daily variation of liver lipid levels is altered by pinealectomy during the autumn. Melatonin treatment increases liver glycogen reserves in goldfish maintained on a long, but not a short, photoperiod during the spring. Plasma glucose levels are also elevated by melatonin treatment. Therefore, the pineal organ participates in regulating levels and daily variations of some metabolites. The influence of the pineal on metabolites varies with season and day length.
The immobilization of whole cells: Engineering principles

Abstract The immobilization of whole cells involves the retention of catalytically active cells within a restricted region of a bioreactor. Techniques which have been used to immobilize whole cells include adsorption, aggregation, confinement and entrapment. These techniques can be applied to essentially all of the viable or non-viable whole cell systems of potential interest: microorganisms, animal and plant cells. The fact that immobilized cells may be living leads to unique effects in this form of heterogeneous catalysis. These include the impact of immobilization on cell physiology and cell mobility, physical interactions of immobilized cells with the support, and the creation of a microenvironment. The theory of mass-transfer and reaction in these types of systems is well understood, but schemes capable of predicting substrate and product diffusivities and the intrinsic kinetics in the aggregate must still be developed. New experimental approaches are being used to elucidate the basic mechanisms that determine these physical and metabolic properties of immobilized cells. Several reactor configurations have been successfully used with immobilized cells, and many more have been proposed. The choice of a particular design for a given process depends on the requirements for mass-transfer, the growth behaviour of the cells, and the structural properties of the aggregate.
Effect of varying pH on the susceptibility of Campylobacter pylori to antimicrobial agents.

The susceptibility of 22 clinical isolates ofCampylobacter pylori to eight antimicrobial agents was studied under varying pH conditions. Macrolides (erythromycin, dirythromycin), clindamycin and to a lesser extent quinolones lost efficacy at lowered pH. The activity of ampicillin and metronidazole remained relatively stable throughout the pH range tested. The effect of pH an antimicrobial efficacy may warrant consideration when selecting an antibiotic to clearCampylobacter pylori in vivo, since the pH of the gastric submucous environment is not known for certain.
Growth Rings in d-Sorbitol Spherulites: Connection to Concomitant Polymorphs and Growth Kinetics

d-Sorbitol spherulites developed concentric rings in response to changes of crystallization temperature. Unlike extinction rings of polymer spherulites, these growth rings were linked to the concomitant crystallization of polymorphs (E and E‘) in temperature-dependent ratios. The growth rings provided a convenient way to measure the kinetics of crystal growth, similar to the use of tree rings in dendrochronology to determine the climatic effect on a tree's growth. The observed growth kinetics spanned 4 orders of magnitude and conformed approximately to the theory of interface-controlled growth parametrized with a viscosity-derived diffusion coefficient and thermodynamic driving force of crystallization. Near the glass transition temperature, however, the observed growth rate was faster than predicted, a discrepancy observed previously with other materials and attributed to the breakdown of the Stokes−Einstein relation between diffusion coefficient and viscosity. The same theory predicted a faster growth r...
Modulation of calcium oxalate crystallization by linear aspartic acid-rich peptides.

Calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) kidney stone formation is prevented in most humans by urinary crystallization inhibitors. Urinary osteopontin (OPN) is a prototype of the aspartic acid-rich proteins (AARP) that modulate biomineralization. Synthetic poly(aspartic acids) that resemble functional domains of AARPs provide surrogate molecules for exploring the role of AARPs in biomineralization. Effects of linear aspartic acid-rich peptides on COM growth kinetics and morphology were evaluated by the combination of constant composition (CC) analysis and atomic force microscopy (AFM). A spacer amino acid (either glycine or serine) was incorporated during synthesis after each group of 3 aspartic acids (DDD) in the 27-mer peptide sequences. Kinetic CC studies revealed that the DDD peptide with serine spacers (DDDS) was more than 30 times more effective in inhibiting COM crystal growth than the DDD peptide with glycine spacers (DDDG). AFM revealed changes in morphology on (010) and (−101) COM faces that were gener...
Fundamentals of ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) thin films as biomaterials for developmental biology: Embryonic fibroblasts growth on the surface of (UNCD) films

Ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) films possess numerous valuable good physical, chemical and mechanical properties, making UNCD an excellent material for implantable biodevices. However, one very important property required for biomaterials i.e., biocompatibility has not been studied for UNCD. In this research, biocompatible UNCD films were synthesized. It was found that UNCD film coated substrates can dramatically promote the growth of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), while the uncoated substrates inhabit cell attachment. Through analyzing the microstructure and the surface chemistry of UNCD, the mechanisms of cell growth on UNCD were investigated. Given the unique properties of UNCD on inertness and toughness, the results consolidate UNCD film as the leading coating candidate for the next generation of medical implanted devices.
Spectral Dependence of the Attenuation of Brightness Contrast by the Atmosphere.

Abstract A study has been made of the effect of wavelength on the attenuation of brightness contrast by the atmosphere. The results of the study have been expressed in terms of the variation in meteorological range with wavelength and indicate a linear relation between meteorological range and wavelength rather than a fourth power law, which might be expected on the basis of Rayleigh scattering. This linear relation has been found to hold for black objects and white objects for a wide range of transparencies of the atmosphere. From this result, it is concluded that even on the clearest of days there is in the atmosphere always an abundance of scattering nuclei of a size greater than molecular dimensions.
Validation of wind turbine generator stability models for wind generation interconnection studies

The paper discusses validation of vendor-specific wind turbine generator (WTG) stability models being developed by WTG manufacturers. Considered are qualitative and quantitative approaches to the validation and related metrics and criteria. Rather than proposing a concrete validation framework and specific metrics and criteria for the assessment of the adequacy of a model, the paper considers the philosophy of validation and essential aspects of its process as they are seen from the perspective of wind generation interconnection studies. Recommendations are made on how the validation process can be enhanced, with an emphasis on representativeness and comprehensiveness of validation tests and on what data can be considered to be a proof of the adequacy of a WTG model.
A working hypothesis explaining the maintenance of the transformed state by SV40 and polyoma.

Abstract A model is presented that attempts to explain how SV40 or polyoma maintains the transformed state or phenotype. It is proposed that SV40 or polyoma codes for a protein involved in the initiation of cellular DNA synthesis (positive control element). This viral directed cellular DNA synthesis is different in some way from normal cellular DNA synthesis. This difference, in addition to other factors (possibly a second viral coded protein), results in a permanent cell surface alteration. This same cell surface alteration is observed transiently (only during mitosis) in the normal cell cycle. The permanent cell surface change permits the synthesis or activation of the viral positive control element for cellular DNA replication by-passing the normal cellular control for the initiation of DNA synthesis and allowing the cell to enter a new S period. This results in loss of density growth and expression of the transformed phenotype. The model is presented as a working hypothesis that makes specific predictions for new experiments.
Smoking and women‚s health: opportunities to reduce the burden of smoking during pregnancy

Smoking cessation is one of the most important actions a woman can take to improve the outcome of her pregnancy, and most women who stop smoking during pregnancy do so on their own. Because women know about the adverse effects of smoking on their health and that of their fetuses, pregnancy may be a
“That's Gay”: Sexual Prejudice, Gender Identity, Norms, and Homophobic Communication

This multi-study investigation employed social identity theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979) to explain the use of derogatory terms about gay men by heterosexual men (nStudy1 = 225; nStudy2 = 334). This investigation extends research on sexual prejudice by demonstrating how homophobic communication by men often serves a self-presentation function that is mediated through group norms. Using structural equation modeling, the extent to which communication norms mediated attitudes toward gay men, gender identity, hetero-identity concern, and homophobic communication was explored. Results from both studies revealed that these data were consistent with a revised model where both descriptive communication norms and endorsement of prescriptive communication norms were mediators of gender identity and sexual prejudice in predicting men's homophobic communication and partially mediated hetero-identity concern.
Millisecond timescale fluctuations in dihydrofolate reductase are exquisitely sensitive to the bound ligands

Enzyme catalysis can be described as progress over a multi-dimensional energy landscape where ensembles of interconverting conformational substates channel the enzyme through its catalytic cycle. We applied NMR relaxation dispersion to investigate the role of bound ligands in modulating the dynamics and energy landscape of Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase to obtain insights into the mechanism by which the enzyme efficiently samples functional conformations as it traverses its reaction pathway. Although the structural differences between the occluded substrate binary complexes and product ternary complexes are very small, there are substantial differences in protein dynamics. Backbone fluctuations on the micros-ms timescale in the cofactor binding cleft are similar for the substrate and product binary complexes, but fluctuations on this timescale in the active site loops are observed only for complexes with substrate or substrate analog and are not observed for the binary product complex. The dynamics in the substrate and product binary complexes are governed by quite different kinetic and thermodynamic parameters. Analogous dynamic differences in the E:THF:NADPH and E:THF:NADP(+) product ternary complexes are difficult to rationalize from ground-state structures. For both of these complexes, the nicotinamide ring resides outside the active site pocket in the ground state. However, they differ in the structure, energetics, and dynamics of accessible higher energy substates where the nicotinamide ring transiently occupies the active site. Overall, our results suggest that dynamics in dihydrofolate reductase are exquisitely "tuned" for every intermediate in the catalytic cycle; structural fluctuations efficiently channel the enzyme through functionally relevant conformational space.
The application of constrained mathematics in probabilistic uncertainty analysis

Safety and reliability analyses often depend on Boolean logic combinations of input variables that have uncertainty (imperfect knowledge) or variability (probabilistically described outcomes). Calculating safety and reliability probabilities with functions of uncertain variables can yield incorrect or misleading results if some precautions are not taken. One important consideration is the application of constrained mathematics for calculating probabilities for functions that contain repeated variables. An example of a constraint is that an uncertain variable that appears multiple times in a Boolean expression must always have the same value, although the value cannot be exactly specified. It has been recognized that using interval-based computations such as interval arithmetic and fuzzy or possibilistic mathematics in an unconstrained mode (applied by sequentially parsing equation solutions), and even Monte Carlo analysis can significantly misrepresent extreme values. This phenomenon, its ramifications, and a solution for the problem are discussed.
On the calculation of fuel savings through lightweight design in automotive life cycle assessments

Background, aim, and scope Lightweight design is a common means of reducing a passenger car's fuel consumption. In order to calculate the resulting fuel savings, one has to estimate the total energy that is needed to move a certain weight over a defined distance in a distinct way, and express this energy in liter of gasoline or diesel. This can be accomplished by the so-called fuel reduction value (FRV) and based on a standardized driving cycle, e.g., the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The aim of this paper is to explain the theoretical background of the calculation of fuel savings in automotive lightweight life cycle assessments (LCAs) of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in greater detail than it has been done before, to describe the resulting factors and their different applications, and to point out some notable particularities that need to be taken into account when conducting this type of LCA study.
Application of intermediate biomarkers to studies of cancer prevention in the gastrointestinal tract: introduction and perspective.

In this article, abnormalities in the proliferation and differentiation of gastrointestinal cells are described in dis- eases that increase predisposition to gastrointestinal cancer. Re- cent findings related to the effects ofcalcium on gastrointestinal cell proliferation, differentiation, and tumor occurrence in rodent models and in human subjects are summarized. Am J Gun Nutr 199 1;54:188S-92S.
Trichomonas Muris , Parasitic in the Oxyurid Nematodes, Aspicularis tetraptera and Syphacia obvelata , from White Mice

Trichomonas muris infections were encountered in the oxyurid nematodes Aspicularis tetraptera and Syphacia obvelata parasitic in laboratory white mice. More rarely infections with other protozoa were encountered in the helminths. The distribution of both protozoan and helminth infections was studied, and the incidence of infected helminths determined. Dividing forms of Trichomonas muris occurred in the intestine of the worm as well as free in the lumen of the intestine of the mouse. An interpretation of certain findings in dividing forms is offered.
On the half-range orthogonality theorem appropriate to the scattering of polarized light

Abstract A half-range orthogonality theorem relevant to the normal modes of a two-vector equation of transfer is proved. All appropriate normalization integrals are evaluated so that required expansion coefficients may be expressed concisely in terms of inner products.
Victims' and observers' perceptions of sexual harassment: implications for employers' legal risk in North America

The way in which victims and observers perceive potentially harassing behaviours and employers' responses to sexual harassment complaints significantly affect organizations' liability risk under sexual harassment law in North America. This article examines studies in the sexual harassment literature that focus on the perceptions of sexual harassment victims and observers, and identifies legal and extra-legal factors that influence their harassment judgments. The implications of research findings for employer liability and future research are discussed.
Isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis by Use of 5-Iodo-2-Deoxyuridine—Treated Cells

Irradiated McCoy cells have provided a useful technique for the isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis strains, among which are found the etiological agents of trachoma, inclusion conjunctivitis, and lymphogranuloma venereum. Because irradiation is not always readily available, 5-iodo-2-deoxyuridine (IUDR) treatment of cells was investigated as a substitute procedure. IUDR-treated cells were found to be as sensitive to C. trachomatis infection as were irradiated McCoy cells. Stock chlamydial strains gave similar titers of iodine-stained inclusions in either system. When cells treated with IUDR were compared with irradiated cells for the isolation of C. trachomatis from clinical specimens, 5 of 138 specimens yielded isolates in IUDR-treated cells not found in irradiated ones, and one isolate was obtained from irradiated but not from IUDR-treated cells. In those 56 cases where inclusions were seen in both systems, there were significantly more inclusions in IUDR-treated than in irradiated cells. Although this series of cultures is too small to determine whether IUDR-treated cells are superior to irradiated ones for the isolation of C. trachomatis, the data indicate that IUDR treatment is at least equally effective.