cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Insertion of an Abiomed Impella® Left Ventricular Assist Device Following Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Placement

Background Post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock is an infrequent devastating complication with few options for support. Materials and Methods We present a case highlighting use of the Impella 5.0 (ABIOMED; Danvers, MA) for postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock after coronary artery bypass and bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement. Results Support was maintained for 7 days before being successfully weaned with myocardial recovery and no damage to the bioprosthetic aortic valve. Conclusions This is the first published report of successful use of an Impella 5.0 (ABIOMED; Danvers, MA) for post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock through a new implanted bioprosthetic aortic valve. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12118 (J Card Surg 2013;28:469–471)
Pareto frontier of energy storage costs-fuel economies for a series HEY using bandwidth based control strategy

Due to marketability issues of the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) compared to the conventional vehicle, simultaneously optimizing the energy storage system (ESS) cost-a main contributor to overall cost- and Fuel Economy (FE) of the HEV is necessary. A Pareto Frontier of ESS cost and FE is a valuable design information which offers entire optimum designs, proportional to the customer requirements. The Pareto Frontier result is affected by the methodology of managing power flow between energy components in the power train. Hence, in this manuscript, the Pareto set is achieved using an advanced bandwidth-based control strategy for a Series HEV with limited All-Electric-Mode (AEM).
Knowledge Representation for Natural Language Processing

We give an overview of the typed predicate logic LLILOG which serves as the target language for translating the information provided in German texts into machine processible form. Being part of the natural language understanding system LEU/2, the knowledge representation system built around LLILOG serves different purposes. Its knowledge engineering environment has been used for modeling the semantical backgound knowledge for the application domain of LEU/2. The inference engine implementing LLILOG is a flexible theorem prover for processing the information extracted from natural language texts.
A Diophantine Equation

In accordance with the first motive I study the diophantine equation $$ \alpha k + \beta = xy $$ Here α, β are (large) integers of comparable size, and we look for solution triplets {k, x, y} in integers of smaller size.
The precursors of endometrial carcinoma.

Abstract For many years, a variety of abnormal endometrial lesions have been linked to endometrial cancer but have been designated as hyperplasia and classified by modifying adjectives such as cystic, adenomatous, atypical, moderate, and severe. Though descriptively distinctive, there are enough consistent histologic transitions between them to designate the entire group as belonging to a continuous spectrum from benign to malignant. Furthermore, because these epithelial lesions demonstrate not just hyperplasia but significant disorderly growth patterns, it has been suggested that they be referred to as dysplasias. In order to evaluate the association of these types of dysplasia to cancer, two groups of patients were studied. In one group, the histologic states of the endometrium of patients with endometrial cancer were retrospectively analyzed. In the second group of patients, who were selected for study because the endometria were diagnosed as belonging to the dysplastic groups, the subsequent endometrial histology was prospectively studied. The findings suggest: that there is a recognizable group of endometrial lesions with an association to endometrial cancer :strong enough to label and treat them as neoplastic.
Treatment of staphylococcal infections with cyclic lipopeptides

Daptomycin is the first of a new class of antibiotics, the cyclic lipopeptides, for which a novel mechanism of action is hypothesised. Owing to its mode of action, daptomycin is rapidly bactericidal without being bacteriolytic, is active against static- and growing-phase bacteria, and has a low resistance rate in vitro. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated that daptomycin is as effective as standard therapy for the treatment of complicated skin and soft-tissue infections associated with Gram-positive infections, and daptomycin-treated patients benefited from a reduced time to clinical resolution. Daptomycin has also been shown to be as effective as standard therapy in the treatment of bacteraemia associated with Staphylococcus aureus, with or without endocarditis. These results indicate that daptomycin is a useful therapeutic option for treating Gram-positive infections, particularly those caused by S. aureus.
Changes in the gene and protein expression of KATP channel subunits in the hippocampus of rats subjected to picrotoxin-induced kindling

ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels couple the intracellular metabolic state to electrical activity, which is important in the control of neuronal excitability and seizure propagation. In this study, we investigated the changes in the gene and protein expression of KATP channel subunits in the brain of picrotoxin (PTX)-kindled rats, which were daily administered with a subconvulsant dose of PTX for 20 days. At 14 days after the last administration of PTX, kindled rats were retreated with PTX and killed by decapitation at 12 h, 1 and 3 days, as well as retreated with vehicle and killed at 0 h after starting the retreatment. The abundance of Kir6.1, Kir6.2, SUR1 and SUR2A/B mRNAs was evaluated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using endogenous gene glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) as an internal control, and the level of Kir6.2 and SUR1 proteins was measured by Western blot. At 0 h, the brain showed decreasing expression of various subunit mRNAs, with the exception of the SUR2A mRNA. In contrast, from 12 h to 3 days, the amount of various subunit mRNAs was up-regulated dynamically, but SUR2A of which was not changed significantly both from cortical and hippocampal samples. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the levels of Kir6.1, Kir6.2, SUR1 and SUR2B mRNAs at 12 h and 3 days (excepting SUR1 at 3 days) from hippocampal samples, as well as Kir6.1 at 1 day and SUR1 at 3 days from cortical samples, were significantly higher than that detected at 0 h. In addition, low levels of Kir6.2 and SUR1 proteins were observed both from cortical and hippocampal samples at 0 h and also, from 12 h to 3 days, a marked up-modulation of Kir6.2 and SUR1 protein expressions especially from hippocampal samples was found. These results suggest that the PTX-induced changes in the KATP channels may play a key role in the induction and maintenance of kindling and the PTX-induced seizures might be important for the acute changes of KATP channels observed in kindled rat brain.
Adiponectin as a novel determinant of bone mineral density and visceral fat

Growing evidence suggests that positive associations between fat mass (FM) and bone mineral density (BMD) are mediated by not only biomechanical but also biochemical factors. Adiponectin is a novel adipocyte-derived hormone that regulates energy homeostasis and has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects. Unlike other adipokines such as leptin, adiponectin levels decrease in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The purpose of our study was to investigate associations of serum adiponectin with BMD (DXA and QCT), FM (DXA and QCT), and serum leptin and soluble leptin receptor levels in 38 women and 42 men (age 39-81, BMI 17-55, 86% with type 2 diabetes). After adjusting for age, gender, race, smoking, and diabetes status, serum adiponectin was inversely associated with areal BMD (r = -0.20 to -0.3, all P 0.1). These data suggest that adiponectin may play a role in the protective effects of visceral fat on BMD.
THEORETICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE USE OF L‐DOPA IN PARKINSONISM.

The production of all the major symptoms of parkinsonism is attributed chiefly to the loss of the normal dopaminergic input into the striatum. This loss of dopaminergic input is due to degeneration of the cell bodies of the substantia nigra. An analogous loss of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) may be of significance in the production of parkinsonian tremor. L-dopa ameliorates the symptoms of parkiusonism as a result of reinstitution of dopamine inhibition of the striatal neurons. L-dopa induced dyskinesias are felt to be related to denervation hypersensitivity of striatal neurons to dopamine produced by dopaminergic denervation. Failure to respond to L-dopa is related to degeneration of striatal dopaminergic receptors. The efficacy of amantadine hydrochloride is felt to be related to a block of the presynaptic reuptake of dopamine and thereby a prolongation of dopamine's effect at the receptor site.
A pilot study of twice-weekly exercise during hemodialysis in children

Few published studies have assessed the exercise capacity and/or the effect of exercise in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD). The aim of this study was to determine if twice-weekly exercise for 1 h during HD could improve exercise capacity in children receiving HD. We assessed lower extremity strength (Biodex; dominant extension peak torque in 60° per second, Newton-meters), grip strength (dynanometer, kilogram) and 6-min walk capacity (yards) in ten children (median age 13.6 years, range 8–25 years) at baseline and after 3 months of twice weekly exercise for 1 h during HD. Baseline assessment revealed a mean (1) Biodex of 70 ± 32 N-m/s, (2) 6-m walk test of 589 ± 90 yards and (3) grip strength of 23.2 ± 10 kg, which were 50% lower than the normal value for healthy controls. Patients demonstrated significant improvements in lower extremity strength and 6-min walk test after 3 months of exercise. Our data show that twice-weekly exercise of a moderate intensity during HD can lead to exercise capacity improvement in 3 months. We identified barriers to and strategies for the successful implementation of intradialytic exercise. We suggest that intradialytic exercise intervention may be effective to improve exercise capacity in children receiving maintenance HD.
The "Powers" to "Kraft" Humanist Endings to Posthumanist Novels: Galatea 2.2 as a Rewriting of Operation Wandering Soul

In Operation Wandering Soul, Richard Powers attempts to write a humanistic novel in which a pediatric resident (Richard Kraft) and a pediatric psychiatrist provide therapy for dying children by reading narratives to them. Galatea 2.2 also foregrounds narrativity, as character Richard Powers attempts to construct a coherent narrative out of his past through writing his autobiography. Both novels feature characters who cannot cope with the horrors of the twentieth century: Wandering Soul's Richard Kraft suffers a breakdown, while Galatea's Helen, an artificial intelligence, commits A. I. suicide. This essay argues that Powers's attempt in Wandering Soul to write a humanistic novel fails due to the psychotic breakdown of Kraft. However, whereas Powers is unable to sacrifice the human, he sacrifices the posthuman on the character Richard Powers's behalf, freeing him from his writer's block and allowing him (character and novelist) to write Galatea.
Direct experimental determination of laminar flame speeds

The stability of premixed flames at ultralow strain rates was assessed experimentally and numerically in the stagnation flow configuration. Results indicate that there are inherent limitations in establishing weakly strained planar flames, and that the accuracy of the laminar flame speeds obtained through linear extrapolations can, thus, be compromised. In view of these limitations, a new methodology is proposed for the direct experimental determination of laminar flame speeds. It includes the use of the stagnation flow configuration and large separation distances betwenn the nozzle and the stagnation plane, which allow for the establishment of Bunsen-type flames as the flow rate is reduced. The flow velocities are measured by using laser Doppler velocimetry. The proposed technique is based on the principle that whereas the planar, strained flames are positively stretched, the Bunsen flames are negatively stretched. Thus, by achieving a smooth, quasi-steady transition between planar and Bunsen flames, the flames pass through a near-zero strain-rate state. Real-time LDV measurements were obtained at numerous fixed spatial locations in the region within which transition occurs. The minimum velocity obtained in these measurements corresponds to the flame speed at the limit of near-zero stretch and is proposed as a representative value of the true laminar flame speed, SHo. Laminar flame speeds were obtained for atmospheric CH4/air, C2H6/air, and C3H8/air mixtures and for a wide range of equivalence ratios. The new Sno values were found to be systematically lower than the values that have been determined by using the traditional stagnation flow technique and linear extrapolations to zero strain rate.
Bayesian analysis of binary sequences

This manuscript details Bayesian methodology for ''learning by example'', with binary n-sequences encoding the objects under consideration. Priors prove influential; conformable priors are described. Laplace approximation of Bayes integrals yields posterior likelihoods for all n-sequences. This involves the optimization of a definite function over a convex domain-efficiently effectuated by the sequential application of the quadratic program.
Economic cost of Sri Lanka's ethnic conflict

Abstract Despite its low income per capita, Sri Lanka has achieved remarkable success in human development, largely due to appropriate government policies on health and education. However, Sri Lanka's economic performance has been below its potential, and the unresolved civil conflict poses one of the greatest obstacles to its long terms growth prospects. This article examines some indirect costs of Sri Lanka's civil war. It argues that the conflict has resulted in lower domestic and foreign investments, disruptions in trade and commerce, and lower revenues from tourism. As a consequence, economic growth has suffered. With no end in sight to the civil war, these costs are likely to mount, with pernicious effects on future living standards.
High-dose immunosuppressive therapy with stem cell transplantation for the treatment of autoimmune disease

Abstract There is a good rationale for using HDIT-SCT in autoimmune diseases, namely, removing an overactive autoimmune system and replacing it with a naive system (which recapitulates its maturation in the presence of the underlying disease) can result in an immune system which is not reactive to the causative stimuli for the autoimmune disease, allowing consequent improvement in the clinical manifestations of that disease.
Local and diffuse synaptic actions of GABA in the hippocampus

Abstract In the CNS, λ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) acts as an inhibitory transmitter via ligand-gated GABA A receptor channels and G protein-coupled GABA B receptors. Both of these receptor types mediate inhibitory postsynaptic transmission in the hippocampus. In addition to these direct postsynaptic actions, GABAB receptor agonists inhibit excitatory transmission through presynaptic receptors on excitatory afferent terminals. However, a physiological role for the GABA B receptors on excitatory nerve endings has not been established. In this study, we have found a brief, heterosynaptic depression of excitatory synaptic transmission in the CA1 region of the hippocampal slice following short-lasting repetitive stimulation and determined that this inhibition is mediated by presynaptic GABAB receptors. The inhibition of GABA uptake greatly enhanced both the presynaptic action of GABA and the slow GABA B -mediated inhibitory postsynaptic current. Transmitter uptake was also found to regulate the "spill-over" of GABA at conventional GABA A synapses. These results suggest that uptake mechanisms restrict the spatial range of both point-to-point synaptic transmission mediated by GABA and its action at a distance.
Substrate Channeling in Mammalian Base Excision Repair Pathways: Passing the Baton

The current model for base excision repair (BER) involves two general sub-pathways termed single-nucleotide BER and long patch BER that are distinguished by their repair patch sizes and the enzymes/co-factors involved. Both sub-pathways involve a series of sequential steps from initiation to completion of repair. The BER sub-pathways are designed to sequester the various intermediates, passing them along from one step to the next without allowing these toxic molecules to trigger cell cycle arrest, necrotic cell death, or apoptosis. Although a variety of DNA-protein and protein-protein interactions are known for the BER intermediates and enzymes/co-factors, the molecular mechanisms accounting for step-to-step coordination are not well understood. In the present study we designed an in vitro assay to explore the question of whether there is a channeling or "hand-off" of the repair intermediates during BER in vitro. The results show that when BER enzymes are pre-bound to the initial single-nucleotide BER intermediate, the DNA is channeled from apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 to DNA polymerase β and then to DNA ligase. In the long patch BER subpathway, where the 5'-end of the incised strand is blocked, the intermediate after DNA polymerase β gap filling is not channeled to the subsequent enzyme, flap endonuclease 1. Instead, flap endonuclease 1 must recognize and bind to the intermediate in competition with other molecules.
ABNORMAL REGULATION OF PROLACTIN SECRETION AFTER SUCCESSFUL SURGERY FOR PROLACTIN‐SECRETING PITUITARY TUMOURS

SUMMARY Patients with prolactin-secreting pituitary tumours have a diminished prolactin (PRL) response after administration of a variety of stimulatory agents, including thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH), chlorpromazine (CPZ) and insulin-induced hypoglycaemia. We examined responses to these agents in sixty-seven women with PRL-secreting tumours before and after trans-sphenoidal surgery. Twenty-nine of the women were cured as denned by restoration of normal serum PRL concentrations and resumption of regular menses. One year following trans-sphenoidal surgery, patients with normal PRL concentrations and regular menses had normal PRL responses to TRH, while the responses to CPZ and insulin hypoglycaemia were not improved. The reversible impairment of PRL response to TRH reflects suppressed function of normal PRL-secreting cells, and the persistence of abnormal PRL responses to provocative stimuli after successful tumour removal may reflect some fundamental defect in the regulation of PRL secretion in patients with PRL-secreting adenomas. When growth hormone (GH) reserve after insulin hypoglycaemia was represented as the mean absolute increment above the basal concentration and compared with normal subjects, women with PRL-secreting tumours had a diminished response that returned to normal after successful surgery. This reversible impairment of GH secretion is not adequately reflected by standard criteria for GH response and suggests that PRL may have a role in the regulation of GH secretion.
Immunocytochemical staining for islet amyloid polypeptide in pancreatic endocrine tumors.

Aims/hypothesis: Islet amyloid polypeptide is originally identified as the chief constituent of amyloid in insulinomas and type 2 diabetic islets. This study aimed to identify islet amyloid polypeptide by immunocytochemical staining in pancreatic endocrine tumors including 30 cases of insulinomas and non-β-cell pancreatic endocrine tumors. Results: In normal islets, 62% of islet cells and 52% of insulin cells were granularly positive for insulin and IAPP, respectively, with more insulin positive cells than IAPP positive cells and some densely positive staining for insulin and IAPP in irregularly shaped a nuclear, degenerating islet β-cells. In pancreatic endocrine tumors, all 10 insulinomas were positive for islet amyloid polypeptide but 2 glucogonomas, 1 somatostatinoma, 6 of 7 pancreatic polypeptidomas, all 7 gastrinomas and all 3 non-functioning pancreatic endocrine tumors were negative for islet amyloid polypeptide whereas one pancreatic polypeptidoma was positive for islet amyloid polypeptide. Method...
Seasonal and temporal patterns of NDMA formation potentials in surface waters.

Abstract The seasonal and temporal patterns of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) formation potentials (FPs) were examined with water samples collected monthly for 21 month period in 12 surface waters. This long term study allowed monitoring the patterns of NDMA FPs under dynamic weather conditions (e.g., rainy and dry periods) covering several seasons. Anthropogenically impacted waters which were determined by high sucralose levels (>100 ng/L) had higher NDMA FPs than limited impacted sources (
AN EMERGENT ALBEDO PREFERENCE IN TURTLE

The current experiment sought to determine whether the turtle (Chrysemys), during and following extended pre-exposure to two black or two gray maze arms, would show alternation or response to stimulus change. The results indicated an overwhelming preference for the black arm which was highly resistant to modification in a subsequent black-gray choice situation.
Pediatric firearm-related fatalities. Not just an urban problem.

Objective: To examine medical and demographic factors associated with the firearm-related deaths among children in Kentucky. Design: Retrospective review and multiple regression analysis. Data Source: All firearm-related deaths among children younger than 20 years reported to the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics, Frankfort, from 1988 to 1993. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: All 320 pediatric firearm-related deaths that occurred in Kentucky from 1988 to 1993 were analyzed. Death rates were calculated for each county in the state. While the overall death rate from firearms was not significantly different between African-American and white children (relative risk [RR], 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98-1.98), the pattern of the types of events was markedly different. African American children were much more likely to have been involved in a homicide; suicides were more frequent in white children. Multiple Poisson regression analysis, controlling for age, race, and gender, identified only 1 variable that was significantly associated with deaths due to firearms. Children in rural Kentucky were at significantly more risk for a firearm-related death than children in urban areas (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.01-1.62) even after controlling for medical system variables (availability of a hospital with 24-hour emergency services, availability of prehospital advanced life support, and availability of 911 service). Conclusions: Children in rural areas of Kentucky are at an increased risk for firearm-related mortality. Prevention and intervention programs that focus only on urban areas may not produce optimum results in the Kentucky setting. Further research is needed to determine factors that are important in rural areas so that interventions specific to them can be planned. (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1996;150:583-587)
Intraoperative radiotherapy: current thinking

Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) refers to the delivery of irradiation at surgery. A large single dose of irradiation is delivered to a surgically defined area, while uninvolved and dose-limiting tissues are displaced, the final goal of IORT being enhanced locoregional tumour control. IORT is used in most modern protocol studies as a boost radiation component of multidisciplinary treatment approaches. More recently, high activity radiation sources or mobile operating room treatment machines are used to facilitate the IORT procedure. Clinical experiences have shown that IORT may improve local control and disease-free survival, especially when used in adjuvant setting, combined with external beam irradiation in some neoplasms such as cancer of the stomach, pancreas, colorectum, and soft tissue sarcoma.
Effect of pH on the base-mispairing properties of 5-bromouracil during DNA synthesis.

The authors have utilized an electrophoretic assay of misincorporation and autoradiography to investigate the possibility that ionization of 5-bromouracil (BU) may play a role in its mispairing during DNA synthesis in vitro. They examined the effects of increasing pH on the relative rates of formation of BU x G and T x G mispairs during chain elongation catalyzed by various DNA polymerases. For the Klenow fragment of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I, increasing pH facilitated BU x G mispair formation (relative to T x G mispairing) when BU was present in the template strand. This effect showed a strong dependence on sequence context. Increasing pH had little effect on the relative rate of misincorporation of BrdUMP versus dTMP (at template G) by the Klenow polymerase. Misincorporation opposite template BU residues catalyzed by Maloney murine leukemia virus DNA polymerase and DNA polymerase ..beta.. (Novikoff hepatoma) also increased with pH, but for these two enzymes, there was no apparent dependence on sequence context. With T4 DNA polymerase and E. coli DNA polymerase III holoenzyme, a similar occurrence of BU x G and T x G mispairing during polymerization was observed, whether BU was present in the template or in the incoming nucleotide,more » and there was little effect of pH. The results reported here are consistent with a mispairing mechanism for template BU wherein the anionic form of the base mispairs with G.« less
Quality tests of CsI(Tl) scintillators

Abstract We have tested a large number of cylindrical CsI(Tl) scintillators of 38 mm diameter and 102 mm length manufactured by BICRON corporation. Crystals grown with a newly developed process show considerably better uniformity of scintillation efficiency than crystals grown by a previous technique.
Doherty Power Amplifier Design in Gallium Nitride Technology Using a Nonlinear Vector Network Analyzer and X-Parameters

This paper presents a complete Doherty power amplifier design that has been developed entirely inside the circuit simulator, but using nonlinear vector network analyzer data and measured X-parameter models. A high-power nonlinear measurement setup with active load-pull capabilities is presented and used to extract X-parameters of a commercially available Gallium Nitride power transistor. From fundamental and harmonic impedance tuning of the measured X-parameter models, main and auxiliary amplifier matching networks are designed and proper splitter/combiner circuitry is developed to achieve optimum Doherty output power and power added efficiency. A first-pass design success (only one fabrication build is required to meet design specifications) is confirmed by measurements of the fabricated power amplifier.
Initial Treatment Success Followed By Failure: How Do We Deal With Toxic Core Beliefs in the Context of Comorbid Major Depression With Psychotic Features, Social Phobia, and Axis II Pathology?

This article presents a diagnostically complicated case involving comorbid major depressive disorder with psychotic features, social phobia and personality pathology (including avoidant, paranoid, and obsessive compulsive traits). “Mr. X” was a 45-year-old single White male who was unemployed and living with his parents at the time of treatment. He presented with severe anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory = 43) and depression (Beck Depression Inventory = 41) as well as active psychotic symptoms (e.g., self-depreciating auditory hallucinations). Although a cognitive case formulation and treatment plan led to initial success in terms of improvements in symptomatology and functional impairment, we speculate that failure to adequately address core toxic beliefs (e.g., “I am inadequate”) ultimately contributed to a precipitous return of symptomatology, followed by a suicide attempt and premature treatment termination. We discuss the challenges of working within a cognitive framework with this client and suggest al...
Navier-Stokes Solutions for Flow Past a Class of Two-Dimensional Semi-Infinite Bodies

The complete Navier-Stokes equations have been used to analyze the symmetric laminar incompressible flow past a class of two-dimension al semi-infinite bodies including the family of parabolas and rectangular slabs as special cases. The problem is formulated in terms of coordinates obtained from the Cartesian coordinates by a conformal transformation. Similarity-type variables are used for the vorticity and stream functions. In these variables, the solution approaches the Blasius solution far downstream and the correct inviscid flow transversely far from the body surface. The formulation also produces the correct starting solution along the stagnation streamline. An alternating direction implicit finite-difference method is used to obtain the numerical solution. Results are presented for the skin-friction function and the surface pressure distributions for various values of the problem parameters. For the rectangular slab with a sharp shoulder, the wall shear is unbounded at the shoulder; however, the vorticity function employed remains bounded. For large Reynolds number, separation and reattachment are observed aft of the region of the shoulder, resulting in a separation bubble of finite, sometimes quite large extent. The flow structure in the separation region is carefully analyzed. Finally, it is shown that a certain boundary-layer-type simplified form of the vorticity equation may be used in separation studies if the displacement effects are correctly accounted for through the complete stream function equation.
Controlled access of p53 to the nucleus regulates its proteasomal degradation by MDM2.

The tumor suppressor p53 can be sent to the proteasome for degradation by placing its nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling under ligand control. Endogenous p53 is ubiquitinated by MDM2 in the nucleus, and controlling the access of p53 to the nuclear compartment regulates its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. This was accomplished by the use of a “protein switch” that places nuclear translocation under the control of externally applied dexamethasone. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that sending protein switch p53 (PS-p53) to the nucleus produces a distinct punctate distribution in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. The nuclear role in accessing the proteasome was investigated by inhibiting classical nuclear export with leptomycin B. Trapping PS-p53 in the nucleus only allows this punctate staining in that compartment, suggesting that PS-p53 must translocate first to the nuclear compartment for cytoplasmic punctate staining to occur. The role of MDM2 binding was explored by inhibiting MDM2/p53 binding with nutlin-3. Inhibition of this interaction blocked both nuclear export and cytoplasmic and nuclear punctate staining, providing evidence that any change in localization after nuclear translocation is due to MDM2 binding. Further, blocking the proteolytic activity of the proteasome maintained the nuclear localization of the construct. Truncations of p53 were made to determine smaller constructs still capable of interacting with MDM2, and their subcellular localization and degradation potential was observed. PS-p53 and a smaller construct, construct containing the two MDM2 binding regions of p53 (Box I+V) were indeed degraded by the proteasome as measured by loss of enhanced green fluorescent protein that was also fused to the construct. The influence of these constructs on p53 gene transactivation function was assessed, and revealed that PS-p53 decreased gene transactivation, while PS-p53(BoxI+V) did not significantly change baseline gene transactivation.
Kv1.3 channels regulate synaptic transmission in the nucleus of solitary tract

The voltage-gated K+ channel Kv1.3 has been reported to regulate transmitter release in select central and peripheral neurons. In this study, we evaluated its role at the synapse between visceral s...
Basic State Energy Budget Analysis for Phases 1, 2 and 3 of GATE

Abstract A diagnostic study of the budget of zonal and eddy components of available potential and kinetic energy is presented for the large-scale basic (time-averaged) state of the atmosphere for Phases 1, 2 and 3 of GATE. The Final Validated Data Set (FVDS) is applied to a modified set of approximate-form energy equations that were originally developed by Lorenz (1955). Geopotential height, temperature, relative humidity, and wind direction and speed were subjectively analyzed at mandatory pressure levels for an area bounded by 20°N, 10°E, 10°S and 40°W. Gridpoint values were extracted at intervals of 2° latitude and longitude. Since basic state data were used, an eddy content or an exchange involving an eddy content represents only the standing eddy component of energy. Results indicate that zonal kinetic energy (KZ) is the most abundant content and is maximum in the region of the upper tropospheric easterly jet. Both KZ and zonal available potential energy (AZ) decrease from phase-to-phase, whereas the...
Management of paediatric tibial fractures using two types of circular external fixator: Taylor spatial frame and Ilizarov circular fixator.

Background The use of circular fixators for the treatment of tibial fractures is well established in the literature. The aim of this study was to compare the Ilizarov circular fixator (ICF) with the Taylor spatial frame (TSF) in terms of treatment results in consecutive patients with tibial fractures that required operative management.
Surface fractal dimension of rice hull‐derived charcoal from a fluidized‐bed reactor

Disposal of or energy recovery from rice hull can be accomplished by pyrolysis, a heterogeneous reaction whose rate tends to depend on the area of the solid reactant surface. In the present work, the surface fractal dimension, dSF an intrinsic quantitative measure for characterizing irregular particle surfaces, has been determined for rice hull as 2.42. The values of dSF of hull-derived charcoal particles at a retention time of 30 s in a fluidized bed have been determined to be 2.79 at 848 K and 3.00 at 973 and 1173 K, thereby indicating the development of a highly porous network with increasing temperature. L'elimination ou la recuperation de l'energǐe venant de l'enveloppe de riz peut l'effectuer par pyrolyse, une reaction heterogene dont la vitesse tend a dependre de la region de la surface du reactif solide⇂. Dans le present travail, on a determine la dimension fractale de surface des enveloppes, dSF, une mesure quantitative intrinseque servant a caracteriser les surfaces de particules irregulieres; la valeur obtenue est de 2,42. On a trouve que les valeurs de dSF des particules de charbon venant de l'enveloppe a un temps de retention de 30 s dans un lit fluidise est de 2.79 a 848 K et de 3.00 a 973 et 1173 K, ce qui indique le developpement d'un reseau hautement poreux avec l'augmentation de la temperature.
Two-Level Early Stopping Algorithm for LTE Turbo Decoding

The design of LTE turbo coding chain suitable for flexible parallel and pipelined hardware implementations is presented. The hierarchical data structure further offers an opportunity to design an efficient two-level early stopping algorithm. An analytical model is developed to compute the distribution of actual decoding iterations performed by the proposed algorithm. It is then shown the scheme can reduce both the total hardware requirement at the design phase as well as the average power consumption at run-time of turbo decoders.
A finite element approach for predicting nozzle admittances

A finite element method is used to predict the admittances of axisymmetric nozzles. It is assumed that the flow in the nozzle is isentropic and the disturbances are small so that linear analyses apply. An approximate, two dimensional compressible model is used to describe the steady flow in the nozzle. The propagation of acoustic disturbances is governed by the complete linear wave equation. The differential form of the acoustic equation is transformed to an integral equation by using Galerkin's method, and Green's theorem is applied so that the acoustic boundary conditions can be introduced through the boundary residuals. The boundary conditions are described for both straight and curved sonic lines. A two dimensional FEM with linear elements is used to solve the acoustic equation. A one dimensional FEM is also used to solve the reduced equation of Crocco, and the solution verifies the sufficiency of the boundary residual formulation. Comparison between computed admittances and experimental data is shown to be quite good.
On the Application of Geometric Singular Perturbation Theory to Some Classical Two Point Boundary Value Problems

In this tutorial, we illustrate how geometric singular perturbation theory provides a complementary dynamical systems-based approach to the method of matched asymptotic expansions for some classical singularly-perturbed boundary value problems. The central theme is that the criterion of matching corresponds to the criterion of transverse intersection of manifolds of solutions. This theme is studied in three classes of problems, linear: ∊y″+αy′+βy=0, semilinear: ∊y″+αy′+f(y)=0, and quasilinear: ∊y″+g(y) y′+f(y)=0, on the interval [0,1], where t∈[0,1], ′=d/dt, 0<∊≪1, and general boundary conditions y(0)=A, y(1)=B hold. Chosen for their relatively simple structure, these problems provide a useful introduction to the methods of geometric singular perturbation theory that are now widely used in dynamical systems, from reaction-diffusion equations with traveling waves to perturbed N-degree-of-freedom Hamiltonian systems, and in applications to a variety of fields.
Modelling and control of crystallizers

Abstract This paper provides an overview of modelling, measurement, identification and control issues arising in crystallizers. The crystal size distribution is modelled with a population balance. The remaining reactor states, such as concentrations temperature, are modelled with integro-differential equations. The models are solved numerically with global orthogonal collocation for continuous reactors and orthogonal collocation on finite elements for batch reactors. The ill-conditioned problem of estimating crystal size distribution from laser light scattering data is examined. The estimation of crystallization kinetic constants from supersaturation data and light scattering data is also discussed. Finally control problems are discussed and an optimal batch crystallization temperature profile is computed.
Markets: a paradigmatic look

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show that knowledge in general, and knowledge of markets in particular, is ultimately a product of the researcher's paradigmatic approach to a multifaceted phenomenon and therefore it is as much an ethical, moral, social, ideological, and political activity, as it is a technical one.Design/methodology/approach – Any adequate analysis of markets necessarily requires fundamental understanding of the worldviews underlying the views expressed with respect to the nature and role of markets. This paper starts with the premise that any worldview can be associated with one of the four basic paradigms: functionalist, interpretive, radical humanist, and radical structuralist.Findings – It shows that any view expressed with respect to markets is based on one of the four paradigms or worldviews and is equally scientific and informative.Research limitations/implications – The paper's discussion is limited to only four paradigms.Originality/value – The paper notes that there ar...
Characterization and dry deposition of carbonaceous aerosols in a wet tropical forest canopy

[1] Carbon aerosol concentration was measured using an impactor on a 42 m tower over a wet tropical forest in northeast Costa Rica. Samples were collected at three different heights, 42, 21, and 2 m, for 2 months during the wet season in 1998. Winds originated from two directions, southeast from the Caribbean Sea and west from the continental isthmus. Concentrations were normalized by the fraction of dry sampling time during the collection. The distribution was negatively skewed for the range of aerodynamic diameter aerosols measured. The main size constituent was in the class 4.7–3.3 μm, accounting for ∼0.70 μg C mol−1. No significant difference was found in the distribution of aerosol carbon with height, suggesting a well-mixed column of air, minimal resuspension, and that the source was from surrounding land use types. Functional relationships were developed to describe the loading of aerosols to the atmosphere and the removal by precipitation. Deposition was estimated using these relationships, combined with three different estimates of velocity deposition derived from (1) aerodynamic and canopy conductance, (2) aerodynamic and momentum conductance, and (3) traditional estimates of gravitational settling diffusion, impaction, and interception. Annual deposition estimates were 2.9, 5.0, and 9.6 kg ha−1 yr−1, respectively. Concentrations of carbon aerosols reported here are as much as two orders of magnitude higher than those reported elsewhere. Annual dry deposition estimates, however, were within the range of other estimates but were likely underestimated. Potential effects on deposition caused by seasonal burns and El Nino–Southern Oscillation are discussed.
Effects of chronic and intermittent cold exposure on metabolic capacity of Peromyscus and Microtus

The effect of 30 days of acclimation at 5°C and of a semiweekly series of short severe cold exposures (Tb → 20–30°C) on metabolic capacity (Mmax) was measured in Alaskan meadow voles(Microtus pennsylvanicus tananaensis) and Wisconsin deer mice(Peromyscus maniculatus bairdii). Meadow voles, with an Mmax of 12–14 ml/(g.h) or 8–9 met (Mmax/Mst), showed little response to either treatment. In deer mice, however, acclimation at 5°C increased Mmax by about half (from 11.0 to 15.4 ml/(g.h) or from 6.0 to 9.1 met). In 25°C-acclimated deer mice 7 severe cold exposures produced a similar increase of which about half was seen with the first 2 exposures. In 5°C-acclimated deer mice, Mmax averaged a 0.3 ml/(g.h) increase for each cold exposure to reach a level of 19 ml/(g.h) or 11 met after 6 weeks.
Telescoping in dating naturally occurring events

Telescoping effects in date estimation were examined in four diary studies. The data show that substantial telescoping can begin as soon as 8 weeks after an event occurs. These studies also found a slight, but typically nonreliable, tendency to make time expansion errors for recent events. Analyses of these data showed that telescoping cannot be attributed to the clarity-of-memory hypothesis proposed by Bradburn, Rips, and Shevell (1987) or to an artifact produced by guessing. An implicit strategy involving estimation of the number of intervening events was proposed to account for the results.
Fast food and unnatural experiments: Another perspective on the New Jersey minimum wage

We have argued that the difference-in-differences method of examining the effects of the New Jersey minimum wage, especially when the differences in differences are measured shortly after the change, is questionable. That being the case, if we nonetheless take this method seriously, and if following Card and Krueger we look at the data shortly before and after the New Jersey minimum was imposed, then the only statistically significant evidence we can find supports the conclusion that the New Jersey minimum reduced employment of young workers.
Applying Gradient Projection and Conjugate Gradient to the Optimum Operation of Reservoirs

The recent versions of nonlinear programming techniques such as the conjugate gradient and the gradient projection algorithms are used to obtain the optimal operating conditions of a multiple reservoirs system with multiple purposes. These algorithms are compared with other techniques in the literature. The conjugate gradient method incorporates the advantages of both the generalized Newton-Raphson, also known as the quasilinearization technique, and the gradient approach while avoiding their major drawbacks. To illustrate the technique, a water resources system with three reservoirs and a tabular objective function is solved by the two algorithms.
Benzylimidazolines as h5-HT1B/1D Serotonin Receptor Ligands: A Structure−Affinity Investigation

Benzylimidazolines may represent a class of 5-HT1D ligands that has yet to be exploited. On the basis of a previous report that the 2-(substituted-benzyl)imidazoline α-adrenergic agonist oxymetazoline (8) binds with high affinity at calf brain 5-HT1D receptors, we explored the structure−affinity relationships of a series of related derivatives. Each of the aromatic substituents was removed and then reinstated in a systematic manner to determine the influence of the individual substituents on binding. It was found that all of the aromatic substituents of 8 act in concert to impart high affinity. However, although the 3-hydroxy group could be removed without significantly reducing affinity for h5-HT1D (i.e., human 5-HT1Dα) receptors, this modification reduced h5-HT1B (i.e., human 5-HT1Dβ) receptor affinity by nearly 50-fold. The 2,6-dimethyl groups also contribute to binding but seem to play a greater role for h5-HT1B binding than h5-HT1D binding. With the appropriate structural modifications, several compo...
A Comparative Perspective on the Ethnic Enclave: Blacks, Italians, and Jews in New York City.

This article contributes to the growing literature maintaining that the ethnic enclave represents a distinct, third alternative to a dual economy. The data are interviews with 45 elderly, immigrant blacks, Jews and Italians from New York City. Two facets of the enclave are explored: determinants of job outcomes for employees and factors responsible for entrepreneurial viability. With regard to employees, the analysis shows enclave workers obtain job security and job status equivalent to openings in the primary sector. Investigation of the organization of ethnic entrepreneurship reveals that the mobilization of several factors
Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex with Mottled Pigmentation Due to a Rare Keratin 5 Mutation: Cutaneous Findings in Infancy

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex with mottled pigmentation (EBS-MP) is an autosomal dominant inherited blistering skin disease characterized by nonscarring blistering and reticulated hyperpigmentation. It is most commonly due to a heterozygous point mutation, P25L, in the nonhelical V1 domain of keratin 5 (KRT5). Here we present a case of EBS-MP with early onset of reticulated hyperpigmentation during infancy due to a rare 1649delG mutation in the V2 domain of KRT5.
Development of an in-field cattle finishing system for the tropics

Abstract An in-field cattle finishing system that takes advantage of the year long growing season in the tropics is described. This system exploits the interrelationships of the feed production and cattle feeding components to increase the cost and energy efficiency of the system in tropical environments. The system is based on regulated feeding of mature zones of standing corn crop to cattle. The corn crop is planted at weekly intervals year round in continual rotation. When the first planting gets to the dough-dent stage of maturity, cattle are put in the cornfield within a movable cattle pen. The feeding is regulated by moving the pen a fixed distance twice a day. This system may reduce the cost of fattening an animal from 250 to 475 kg by about 26%. To test the practicality and engineering feasibility of this program, an exploratory experiment was conducted using three steers, a 6 m × 6 m movable cattle pen and 0·23 ha land area. It was observed that the trampling loss of corn ears by the cattle was minimal after the initial learning period of 2 to 3 weeks. The cattle also utilized about 50% to 80% of the leaves and 20% to 65% of the cornstalks. The uneaten stalks provided an excellent bedding material during wet periods. The animal weight gain performance was similar to that of feedlot cattle of the same age, weight and breed. No major health or disease problem was observed. The performance of the movable cattle pen was satisfactory during normal weather periods, but a more positive locomotion system is needed for wet conditions.