cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrostatic interactions of colloidal particles at vanishing ionic strength.

Electrostatic interactions of colloidal particles are typically screened by mobile ions in the solvent. We measure the forces between isolated pairs of colloidal polymer microspheres as the density of bulk ions vanishes. The ionic strength is controlled by varying the concentration of surfactant (NaAOT) in a nonpolar solvent (hexadecane). While interactions are well-described by the familiar screened-Coulomb form at high surfactant concentrations, they are experimentally indistinguishable from bare Coulomb interactions at low surfactant concentration. Interactions are strongest just above the critical micelle concentration, where particles can obtain high surface potentials without significant screening, κa ≪ 1. Exploiting the absence of significant charge renormalization, we are able to construct a simple thermodynamic model capturing the role of reverse micelles in charging the particle surface. These measurements provide novel access to electrostatic forces in the limit where the particle size is much ...
Analytical estimates of radial segregation in Bridgman growth from low-level steady and periodic accelerations

Approximate analytical solutions are developed that are mathematically tractable but provide the elements of CFD models for estimating convective flows subjected to low-level accelerations. The estimates are applicable to dilute systems that have horizontal temperature gradients in the vertical Bridgman configuration. The Navier-Stokes momentum equation is solved in 1D and subsequently in 2D by the first-order perturbation method. The analysis used is the case of plane-front solidification of a dilute system in the vertical thermally stable configuration. The model is found to predict the degree of radial segregation within a factor of two for a range of material and processing parameters. The method provides detailed information on the effects of processing on solute distribution in the grown crystal which are of interest in the orbital experiments emphasizing the control of radial segregation.
Nomograms including nuclear matrix protein 22 for prediction of disease recurrence and progression in patients with Ta, T1 or CIS transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder

ABSTRACT Purpose: We developed and validated nomograms that accurately predict disease recurrence and progression in patients with Ta, T1, or CIS transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder using a large international cohort. Methods: Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models targeted histologically confirmed disease recurrence, and focused on 2,542 patients with bladder TCC from 10 participating centers. Variables consisted of pre-cystoscopy voided urine Nuclear Matrix Protein 22 (NMP22) assay, urine cytology, age and gender. Resulting nomograms were internally validated with bootstrapping. Nomogram performance was explored graphically with Loess smoothing plots. Results: Overall 957 patients had recurrent TCC. Tumor grade and stage was available for 898 patients, including 24% grade I, 43% grade II, and 33% grade III; 45% stage Ta, 32% T1 and/or CIS, and 23% T2 or greater. Bootstrap corrected predictive accuracy for any TCC recurrence was 0.842; grade III Ta/T1 or CIS was 0.869; and T2 or higher stage TCC of any grade was 0.858. Virtually perfect performance characteristics were observed for the nomograms predicting any TCC recurrence or grade III Ta/T1 or CIS. The nomogram predicting T2 or higher stage TCC overestimated the observed probability for predicted values greater than 45%. Conclusions: We developed and internally validated nomograms that incorporate urinary NMP22, cytology, age and gender to predict with high accuracy the probability of disease recurrence and progression in patients with Ta, T1, and/or CIS bladder TCC. These nomograms could provide a means for individualizing followup in patients with Ta, T1, CIS bladder TCC.
Mechanical Loading: Bone Remodeling and Cartilage Maintenance

Bone remodeling and cartilage maintenance are strongly influenced by biomechanical signals generated by mechanical loading. Although moderate loading is required to maintain bone mass and cartilage homeostasis, loading can cause deleterious effects such as bone fracture and cartilage degradation. Because a tight coupling exists between cartilage and bone, alterations in one tissue can affect the other. Bone marrow lesions are often associated with an increased risk of developing cartilage defects, and changes in the articular cartilage integrity are linked to remodeling responses in the underlying bone. Although mechanisms regulating the maintenance of these two tissues are different, compelling evidence indicates that the signal pathways crosstalk, particularly with the Wnt pathway. A better understanding of the complex tempero-spatial interplay between bone remodeling and cartilage degeneration will help develop a therapeutic loading strategy that prevents bone loss and cartilage degeneration.
Spin spectroscopy of Mn-acceptor complex in GaMnAs

The spin state of holes bound to Mn acceptors in GaMnAs is investigated by optical spectroscopy. Concentrations of Mn from 10 17 to 10 19 cm -3 were studied as a function of magnetic field and temperature. The photoluminescence from recombination of electrons with holes bound in the Mn-acceptor complex (MAC) displays multiple spectral peaks. The circular polarization of these peaks increases with increasing magnetic field and saturates at ρ ≈ 1/3. This value of polarization is expected from modeling the addition of spin angular momentum and interband optical transition matrix elements.
Couple stress theory for solids

By relying on the definition of admissible boundary conditions, the principle of virtual work and some kinematical considerations, we establish the skew-symmetric character of the couple-stress tensor in size-dependent continuum representations of matter. This fundamental result, which is independent of the material behavior, resolves all difficulties in developing a consistent couple stress theory. We then develop the corresponding size-dependent theory of small deformations in elastic bodies, including the energy and constitutive relations, displacement formulations, the uniqueness theorem for the corresponding boundary value problem and the reciprocal theorem for linear elasticity theory. Next, we consider the more restrictive case of isotropic materials and present general solutions for two-dimensional problems based on stress functions and for problems of anti-plane deformation. Finally, we examine several boundary value problems within this consistent size-dependent theory of elasticity.
Collaborative opportunities between fish nutrition and other disciplines in aquaculture: an overview

Abstract Demand for seafood currently exceeds wild harvest but increased production from aquaculture has so far supplied the difference between demand and supply. Seafood harvest from the oceans is unlikely to increase further, thus increasing demand for seafood must be supplied by increased aquaculture production. For aquaculture production to increase, many technological problems must be overcome including insufficient fish meal supplies, broodstock and seed stock production, and water resources. Slow growth rates of some fish species and losses due to disease are also major problems that currently limit expanded aquaculture production. Improvements in feed formulation, feed ingredient modification and agronomy, reproductive physiology, genetics and breeding, and health management made over the past 40 years in agriculture provide a guide for scientists working on the problems limiting higher aquaculture production. Based upon the experience of animal breeders, improving fish growth rates through selective breeding has tremendous potential. Another factor limiting expanded aquaculture production is its effect on the aquatic environment. Thus, reducing the environmental effects of aquaculture through improvements in nutrient utilization by fish and capture of waste products is critical for aquaculture production to increase. Fish nutritionists must improve fish feeds during a period of increasing world demand for the fish meal, traditionally the main protein source for fish feeds. Developing alternate protein sources for fish feeds which support rapid fish growth but do not increase pollution from aquaculture will require the combined efforts of all of the major scientific disciplines that collectively constitute aquaculture.
γ-Carboxyglutamic acid in eukaryotic and prokaryotic ribosomes

Abstract γ-carboxyglutamic acid (GLA) has been assayed in ribosomes of wheat germ and E. coli, and in E. coli ribosomal sub-units, by amino acid analysis of total protein. Results, as nMoles GLA/mg protein, were 18.1 (wheat germ), 58.4 (E. coli), 39.6 and 81.5 (E. coli 30S and 50S sub-units, respectively.) Results for wheat germ and previously reported mammalian ribosomes were highly similar. Hence the level of GLA in eukaryotic ribosomes appears to be approximately constant, but low compared to bacterial (E. coli) ribosomes.
An Amino Terminal Phosphorylation Motif Regulates Intranuclear Compartmentalization of Olig2 in Neural Progenitor Cells

The bHLH transcription factor Olig2 is expressed in cycling neural progenitor cells but also in terminally differentiated, myelinating oligodendrocytes. Sustained expression of Olig2 is counterintuitive because all known functions of the protein in expansion of neural progenitors and specification of oligodendrocyte progenitors are completed with the formation of mature white matter. How are the biological functions of Olig2 suppressed in terminally differentiated oligodendrocytes? In previous studies, we have shown that a triple serine motif in the amino terminus of Olig2 is phosphorylated in cycling neural progenitors but not in their differentiated progeny. We now show that phosphorylation of the triple serine motif regulates intranuclear compartmentalization of murine Olig2. Phosphorylated Olig2 is preferentially localized to a transcriptionally active “open” chromatin compartment together with coregulator proteins essential for regulation of gene expression. Unphosphorylated Olig2, as seen in mature white matter, is localized mainly within a transcriptionally inactive, chromatin fraction characterized by condensed and inaccessible DNA. Of special note is the observation that the p53 tumor suppressor protein is confined to the open chromatin fraction. Proximity ligation assays show that phosphorylation brings Olig2 within 30 nm of p53 within the open chromatin compartment. The data thus shed light on previously noted promitogenic functions of phosphorylated Olig2, which reflect, at least in part, an oppositional relationship with p53 functions.
Synthesis of Calixarenes and Thiacalixarenes

All journeys start with the first few steps. Those in the journey of calixarene chemistry have involved learning how to make the basic calixarene frameworks, their scaffolds. This has been the topic of discussion in this first chapter which has focused on single step syntheses, non-convergent stepwise syntheses, and convergent fragment condensation syntheses. Collectively, these procedures now provide a firm basis for moving on to the next steps of the journey which include learning how to add functional groups to the rims of the calixarenes, learning how to control and contour the shapes of these cyclo-oligomers, and learning how to employ these intriguing compounds in the great variety of applications for which they are being explored. Where the journey, whose margins change continually as we travel, are taking us provides the subject matter for the remaining chapters of this book.
Light and electron microscopy of the new born sagittal suture

Morphogenesis and maturation of the sagittal suture in newborn C57B1/6J strain mice were studied using light and electron microscopy. Morphodifferentiation of the murine parietal bones progresses radially with the interposed sagittal suture, assuming a greater level of maturity at birth at a midpoint along its length. The presumptive suture develops in a sulcus, deeper posteriorly, more shallow anteriorly. Cells at the osteogenic front (OF) are distinguished from the surrounding fibrocytic cells by a number of distinctive characteristics: 1. increased cytoplasmic density; 2. extensive endoplasmic reticulum; 3. dispersed nuclear chromatin aggregates; 4. extensive surface projections; 5. close approximation. Mineralization of the developing parietal bone occurs extracellularly with the initial deposits of apatite crystals exhibiting no oriented relationship to either cellular or extracellular fibrillar elements. The majority of collagen fibers lie superior and inferior to the presumptive suture, oriented anteroposteriorly with their long axes parallel to the ectocranial surface. Other fiber bundles more intimately associated with the developing suture display a more random orientation.
Cytochemical studies on chromosome ultrastructure.

This paper deals with the staining of nuclear proteins, presumably histones, in the meitoic chromosomes of the prophase nuclei of lily microsporocytes. In the pachytene chromosones the lateral element of the synaptinemal complex was particularly reactive with alcoholic PTA. The reactive material was extractable with dilute acid, and staining was inhibited by prior acetylation. Various in vitro quantative studies were performed on the PTA reactivity of isolated histones and deoxyribonucleohistones. These studies suggest that the lateral element of the synaptinemal complex may well contain a histone which may be synthesized in the early part of prophase.
Percutaneous angioplasty of stenotic outflow graft anastomosis of HeartMate II.

A 55-year-old man with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy who had undergone HeartMate II (HM2) (Thoratec, Pleasanton, California) implantation for destination therapy was readmitted 1.5 years later because of low-flow alarms with dizziness. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed decreased velocity
High-affinity binding of [3H]doxepin to histamine H1-receptors in rat brain: possible identification of a subclass of histamine H1-receptors

The binding of the radioactively labeled tricyclic antidepressant, [3H]doxepin, to rat brain tissue was examined. Scatchard plots of specific [3H]doxepin binding indicated the presence of two distinct binding sites. The equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of the high-affinity site was 0.020 nM with a maximal binding capacity (Bmax) of 13.7 fmol/mg protein. The corresponding values for the high-affinity site were 3.6 nM and 740 fmol/mg protein, respectively. The high-affinity site was sensitive to competition by pharmacologically relevant concentrations of histamine H1 antagonists such as pyrilamine (KD = 1.0 nM), diphenhydramine (KD = 20 nM), d-chlorpheniramine (KD = 1.7 nM), and 1-chlorpheniramine (KD = 97 nM). The Bmax for [3H]doxepin binding to the high-affinity H1-receptor, however, was approximately 10% of the Bmax obtained using [3H]pyrilamine to label the H1-receptor. Various tricyclic antidepressants were very potent inhibitors at the high-affinity [3H]doxepin site. Their potencies, however, did not correlate with their potencies previously reported for the H1-receptor. The regional distribution of [3H]doxepin high-affinity sites correlated with the known distribution of H1-receptors in the rat brain. These results suggest that [3H]doxepin is binding to a subclass of histamine H1-receptors.
Finnish adoptive family study: sample selection and adoptee DSM-III-R diagnoses.

Objective: To evaluate the genetic contribution to schizophrenia using an adoption design that disentangles genetic and environmental factors. Method: Finnish hospital diagnoses of schizophrenic/paranoid psychosis in a nationwide sample of adopting-away women are compared with DSM-III-R research diagnoses for these mothers. DSM-III-R diagnoses of their index offspring are blindly compared with adopted-away offspring of epidemiologically unscreened control mothers. Results: Primary sampling diagnoses of index mothers were confirmed using DSM-III-R criteria. Lifetime prevalence of typical schizophrenia in 164 index adoptees was 6.7% (age-corrected morbid risk 8.1%), significantly different from 2.0% prevalence (2.3% age-corrected morbid risk) in 197 control adoptees. When adoptees with diagnoses of schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, schizotypal disorder and affective psychoses were added, the contrast between the index and control adoptees increased. Conclusion: The genetic liability to ‘typical’ DSM-III-R schizophrenia is decisively confirmed. Additionally, the liability also extends to a broad spectrum of other psychotic and non-psychotic disorders.
Vitamin A inhibition of cortisol induction of HeLa alkaline phosphatase.

HELA 651, an aneuploid clone derived from a transformed human cervical carcinoma, has a low level of alkaline phosphatase that is elevated 10 to 15-fold by cultivating the cells with cortisol2–4. This enzyme “induction” occurs through synthesis of new alkaline phosphatase messenger RNA3 at a point in the cell cycle just after initiation of DNA synthesis5, but the result of these alterations is a more active (efficient) enzyme population, not an increase in the steady state level of control enzyme4. These findings have been interpreted as cortisol-effected alterations in the translation of recently synthesized alkaline phosphatase messenger RNA4,5. The present study shows that vitamin A inhibits this cortisol mediated increase in enzyme activity, suggesting a membrane component as a mutual cellular target for retinol and cortisol.
A Multisite Telemammography System for Remote Management of Screening Mammography: An Assessment of Technical, Operational, and Clinical Issues

This paper describes a high-quality, multisite telemammography system to enable “almost real-time” remote patient management while the patient remains in the clinic. One goal is to reduce the number of women who would physically need to return to the clinic for additional imaging procedures (termed “recall”) to supplement “routine” imaging of screening mammography. Mammography films from current and prior (when available) examinations are digitized at three remote sites and transmitted along with other pertinent information across low-level communication systems to the central site. Images are automatically cropped, wavelet compressed, and encrypted prior to transmission to the central site. At the central site, radiologists review and rate examinations on a high-resolution workstation that displays the images, computer-assisted detection results, and the technologist's communication. Intersite communication is provided instantly via a messaging “chat” window. The technologists recommended additional procedures at 2.7 times the actual clinical recall rate for the same cases. Using the telemammography system during a series of “off-line” clinically simulated studies, radiologists recommended additional procedures at 1.3 times the actual clinical recall rate. Percent agreement and kappa between the study and actual clinical interpretations were 66.1% and 0.315, respectively. For every physical recall potentially avoided using the telemammography system, approximately one presumed “unnecessary” imaging procedure was recommended. Remote patient management can reduce the number of women recalled by as much as 50% without performing an unreasonable number of presumed “unnecessary” procedures.
Annual internal growth banding and life history of the ocean quahog Arctica islandica (Mollusca: Bivalvia)

Internal growth bands visible in cross-sections of the valves and hinge plates of Arctica islandica Linne are deposited annually, possibly in response to the reproductive cycle. Growth rate and longevity, inferred from the bands, are surprising: A. islandica grows very slowly and lives to an advanced age. Individuals with more than 90 bands are not uncommon; the maximum number of bands discovered so far is 149. On the basis of average size for Middle Atlantic Bight specimens, modal age is estimated to range from 65 to 105 years.
Charles Bonnet syndrome: visual hallucination and multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a fairly common condition that affects approximately 350,000 people in the United States (1). It is associated with various neuropsychiatric symptoms including cognitive and behavioral symptoms. However, visual hallucinations are rare in multiple sclerosis without the presence of cognitive deficits (2). We are describing the case of a 40-year-old married white female with isolated complex visual hallucinations compatible with the Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS). The patient was successfully treated with the atypical antipsychotic olanzapine.
An alternation in arterial compliance associated with elevated aerobic fitness

Abstract Objective: To identify a nonpharmacologic method of enhancing arterial compliance, a correlate of atherogenesis; to determine the relationship between aerobic fitness levels and arterial compliance; and to identify a characteristic Doppler analog waveform associated with elevated levels of aerobic fitness. Design: A cross-sectional design was used to compare the Doppler studies of sedentary subjects and aerobically trained subjects. The trained subjects were divided into a moderately trained group and a highly trained group. Setting and Participants: One hundred subjects consisting of 50 sedentary control subjects and 50 aerobically trained subjects in a university-based setting. The mean age of the total group of subjects was 36.0 ± 8.6 years. Each group had an equal number of male and female subjects. Control subjects were sedentary, with normal vascular risk factor profiles and a mean aerobic capacity (maximum oxygen consumption) of 25.8 ± 3.0 mL · kg−1 · min−1. Trained subjects were divided into a moderately trained group and a highly trained group. The mean aerobic capacity for the moderately trained group was 46.0 ± 4.4 mL · kg−1 · min−1, and that for the highly trained group was 63.3 ± 6.7 mL · kg−1 · min−1. A standard Doppler examination, including ankle pressure index was performed on each subject. Main Outcome Measure: Arterial compliance measurements were recorded by using A-mode Doppler ultrasonography and analyzed by diastolic flow analysis. Results: Control subjects had a mean arterial compliance level of 21.1% ± 2.5%. The moderately trained subjects had a mean compliance level of 34.8% ± 4.9%, and the highly trained subjects had a mean compliance level of 46.0% ± 6.7%. An analysis of variance was used for this comparison and was significant at a P value of less than.01. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that elevated aerobic fitness levels are associated with an augmentation in arterial compliance. A linear relationship existed in our data between aerobic fitness levels and arterial compliance. This study suggests that enhanced arterial compliance is another beneficial cardioprotective effect associated with aerobic training. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000;23:27–31)
Bicyclo-[2.2.1]hept-7-yl p-bromo-benzoate.

The title compound, C14H15BrO2, contains a sterically unencumbered norbornyl group. The dihedral angle between the plane of the carboxyl­ate group and the mean plane of the adjacent benzene ring is 5.3 (2)°. The dihedral angle between the plane of the carboxyl­ate group and the norbornyl methano C—O bond is 4.5 (1)°, the methano C atom deviating by 0.141 (2) A from this plane. In the crystal, mol­ecules pack as pairs of enanti­omers, with a distance of 3.747 (1) A between the centroids of nearest parallel benzene rings.
Femtosecond Laser Fabrication of a Lab-on-a-Chip in Glass for Enhancing Detection Sensitivity

Lab-on-a-chip devices offer faster, cheaper, and better ways of doing chemical and biological analyses. In this paper, we will show that both 3D micro-fluidic and 3D micro-optical structures can be directly formed in photosensitive glass using a femtosecond laser and an annealing and etching process. Particularly, we will demonstrate the fabrication and examine the function of lab-on-a-chip biosensors integrated with micro-optical loops for enhancing detection sensitivity. The fabricated lab-on-a-chip biosensors are composed of a micro-fluidic channel into which sample under test will be injected. Five micro-optical mirrors are distributed on both sides of the micro-channel to form a zigzag optical path, which forces a micro-optical beam to cross the micro-fluidic channel three times before entering into a photodetector. This design can effectively extend the absorption path length and result in enhanced detection sensitivity of photoabsorption spectroscopic analysis. To examine the function of the micro-device, we filled the microfluidic channel with a dye solution (Rhodamine 640 dissolved in methanol) and shone a green laser beam (532nm) from a laser pointer into the microstructure. The fluorescence emission from the dye solution indicated that the light beam passed through the microchannel; however, due to the strong absorption, the output beam was not obvious. Quantitative characterization is under way for evaluating the detection limit of the lab-on-a-chip micro-device.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
The Moral Nature of Teacher Candidate Beliefs About the Purposes of Schooling and Their Reasons for Choosing Teaching as a Career

This study reports teacher candidate beliefs about the purposes of schooling and their reasons for choosing a career in teaching. The beliefs are analyzed in relation to the moral work of teaching, and the findings suggest that teacher candidates choose teaching as a career, in part, to engage in moral work, and that they believe that schooling has moral ends. The article concludes by providing implications for teacher education research and practice, suggesting that these implications have particular relevance in the current environment of high-stakes testing and accountability, as well as for constructivist teacher educators who seek to understand and meaningfully respond to their teacher candidates’ beliefs.
Determination of biologically significant hydrologic condition metrics in urbanizing watersheds: an empirical analysis over a range of environmental settings

We investigated the relations among 83 hydrologic condition metrics (HCMs) and changes in algal, invertebrate, and fish communities in five metropolitan areas across the continental United States. We used a statistical approach that employed Spearman correlation and regression tree analysis to identify five HCMs that are strongly associated with observed biological variation along a gradient of urbanization. The HCMs related to average flow magnitude, high-flow magnitude, high-flow event frequency, high-flow duration, and rate of change of stream cross-sectional area were most consistently associated with changes in aquatic communities. Although our investigation used an urban gradient design with short hydrologic periods of record (≤1 year) of hourly cross-sectional area time series, these five HCMs were consistent with previous investigations using long-term daily-flow records. The ecological sampling day often was included in the hydrologic period. Regression tree models explained up to 73, 92, and 79% of variance for specific algal, invertebrate, and fish community metrics, respectively. National models generally were not as statistically significant as models for individual metropolitan areas. High-flow event frequency, a hydrologic metric found to be transferable across stream type and useful for classifying habitat by previous research, was found to be the most ecologically relevant HCM; transformation by precipitation increased national-scale applicability. We also investigated the relation between measures of stream flashiness and land-cover indicators of urbanization and found that land-cover characteristic and pattern variables, such as road density, percent wetland, and proximity of developed land, were strongly related to HCMs at both a metropolitan and national scale and, therefore, may be effective land-use management options in addition to wholesale impervious-area reduction.
Clinical Supervision: Training that Works.

Teachers simply do not see themselves as profiting from instructional improvement dicta, says this writer, who offers a supervision model that is nonthreatening and collegial.
Contrast echocardiography: Current and future applications

Recent updates in the field of echocardiography have resulted in improvements in image quality, especially in those patients whose ultrasonographic (ultrasound) evaluation was previously suboptimal. Intravenous contrast agents are now available in the United States and Europe for the indication of left ventricular opacification and enhanced endocardial border delineation. The use of contrast enables acquisition of ultrasound images of improved quality. The technique is especially useful in obese patients and those with lung disease. Patients in these categories comprise approximately 10% to 20% of routine echocardiographic examinations. Stress echocardiography examinations can be even more challenging, as the image acquisition time factor is critically important for accurate detection of coronary disease. Improvements in image quality with intravenous contrast agents can facilitate image acquisition and enhance delineation of regional wall motion abnormalities at the peak level of exercise. Recent phase III clinical trial data on the use of Optison and several other agents (currently under evaluation) have revealed that for approximately half of patients, image quality substantively improves, which enables the examination to be salvaged and/or increases diagnostic accuracy. For the "difficult-to-image" patient, this added information results in (1) enhanced laboratory efficiency, (2) a reduction in downstream testing, and (3) possible improvements in patient outcome. In addition, substantial research efforts are underway to use ultrasound contrast agents for assessment of myocardial perfusion. The detection of myocardial perfusion during echocardiographic examinations will permit the simultaneous assessment of global and regional myocardial structure, function, and perfusion-all of the indicators necessary to enable the optimal noninvasive assessment of coronary artery disease. Despite the added benefit in improved efficacy of testing, few data exist regarding the long-term effectiveness of these agents. Currently under evaluation are the clinical and economic outcome implications of intravenous contrast agent use for daily clinical decision making in a variety of patient subsets. Until these data are known, this document offers a preliminary synthesis of available evidence on the value of intravenous contrast agents for use in rest and stress echocardiography. At present, it is the position of this guideline committee that intravenous contrast agents demonstrate substantial value in the difficult-to-image patient with comorbid conditions limiting an ultrasound evaluation of the heart. For such patients, the use of intravenous contrast agents should be encouraged as a means to provide added diagnostic information and to streamline early detection and treatment of underlying cardiac pathophysiology. As with all new technology, this document will require updates and revisions as additional data become available.
Mapping the core mass function to the initial mass function

It has been shown that fragmentation within self-gravitating, turbulent molecular clouds (‘turbulent fragmentation’) can naturally explain the observed properties of protostellar cores, including the core mass function (CMF). Here, we extend recently developed analytic models for turbulent fragmentation to follow the time-dependent hierarchical fragmentation of self-gravitating cores, until they reach effectively infinite density (and form stars). We show that turbulent fragmentation robustly predicts two key features of the initial mass function (IMF). First, a high-mass power-law scaling very close to the Salpeter slope, which is a generic consequence of the scale-free nature of turbulence and self-gravity. We predict the IMF slope (−2.3) is slightly steeper than the CMF slope (−2.1), owing to the slower collapse and easier fragmentation of large cores. Secondly, a turnover mass, which is set by a combination of the CMF turnover mass (a couple solar masses, determined by the ‘sonic scale’ of galactic turbulence, and so weakly dependent on galaxy properties), and the equation of state (EOS). A ‘soft’ EOS with polytropic index γ < 1.0 predicts that the IMF slope becomes ‘shallow’ below the sonic scale, but fails to produce the full turnover observed. An EOS, which becomes ‘stiff’ at sufficiently low surface densities Σgas ∼ 5000 M_⊙ pc^(−2), and/or models, where each collapsing core is able to heat and effectively stiffen the EOS of a modest mass (∼0.02 M_⊙) of surrounding gas, are able to reproduce the observed turnover. Such features are likely a consequence of more detailed chemistry and radiative feedback.
Distinct trends of pulsatility found at the necks of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms

Background Aneurysm hemodynamics has been shown to be an important factor in aneurysm growth and rupture. Although pulsatility is essential for blood flow and vascular wall function, studies of pulsatile flow properties in brain aneurysm disease are limited. Objective To investigate differences in pulsatility within a group of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms by implementing patient-specific pulsatile flow simulation. Methods 41 of 311 internal carotid artery aneurysms were selected from an aneurysm database (29 unruptured and 12 ruptured) and used for patient-specific hemodynamic simulations of pulsatile flow. Flow pulsatility changes in ruptured and unruptured groups were analyzed by comparing different components of blood flow. Pulsatility index (PI) was used to quantify the pulsatility of blood flow in each group at the aneurysm neck, body, dome, and parent artery. Results Within the parent artery, PI did not significantly differ between ruptured and unruptured groups (0.58). Within unruptured aneurysms, values of PI similar to that of the parent artery were found (0.61). Trends of significantly higher PI (1.99) were found within ruptured aneurysms (p Conclusions A trend towards a lower PI, similar to that in the parent artery, was found in unruptured aneurysms, while ruptured aneurysms followed a trend of higher pulsatility. The difference was significant at the aneurysm neck, indicating that pulsatility and this location may be important aspects of aneurysm rupture and a useful predictor of the risk of aneurysm rupture.
A fully integrated, single-chip handset power amplifier in SiGe BiCMOS for W-CDMA applications

A fully integrated, single-chip power amplifier has been designed to meet the requirements of W-CDMA mobile handsets. The circuit was designed in IBM's 47 GHz f/sub T/ SiGe BiCMOS process with all passive components and matching circuits included on-chip. The design achieves 24 dBm output power with 30% PAE and excellent linearity. The power amplifier draws 42 mA of quiescent current from a 3.3 V source. The fabricated circuit occupies a die area of 1.8 mm /spl times/ 1.25 mm, offering at least 10/spl times/ improvement in chip/board area over current designs, allowing for increased levels of transmitter integration.
Carbon and Sulfur Stable Isotopic Systems and Their Application in Paleoenvironmental Analysis

Stable isotope geochemistry has important applications for understanding past environments and should be incorporated, where appropriate, into paleontological research. This chapter aims to provide a basic introduction to the field of stable isotope geochemistry, highlight fundamental isotopic systems used in paleoenvironmental analysis, outline methods used to acquire isotopic data, explain common primary and secondary processes that can affect the interpretation of that data, and discuss the secular trends of carbon and sulfur isotopes through Earth history. In order to properly interpret stable isotope data, it is critical to understand the origin of the sample used in the geochemical analysis and use consistent sampling methodologies and preparation techniques. Careful attention should be made to assess the sample for diagenetic alteration and contamination prior to preparation for geochemical analysis, including the use of petrographic analysis, CL and SEM petrography, and spot sampling obvious diagenetic zones to compare against samples considered less diagenetically altered. Secular variation of carbon and sulfur isotopes has varied dramatically over geological history. Most isotopic excursions in the geological record appear to manifest from sudden imbalances carbon and sulfur cycles. Long-term variation has important implications on productivity, redox state of the atmosphere and oceans, and potentially the extinction and radiation of organisms. However, geochemists still struggle to understand the mechanisms, duration, and triggers of isotopic excursions. In many case studies, such as the Shuram anomaly, there are multiple scenarios that can produce isotopic excursions. The challenge for future research is to better address stable isotopic variation by integrating datasets across disciplines to improve our understanding of the complex interactions between environmental and biological systems.
Feminist Theory in Three Engineering Education Journals: 1995–2008

Background Women remain underrepresented in engineering despite decades of effort. Feminist theory may explain why some well-intentioned efforts actually reinforce the very conditions they seek to change. Purpose (Hypothesis) Our purpose is to understand and advance the use of feminist theory in engineering education research towards the goals of increasing gender diversity and equity in engineering. Specifically, we seek to address the following questions: How has feminist theory been engaged within engineering education scholar ship? And what opportunities exist for further engagement? Design/Method We analyzed articles from Journal of Engineering Education (JEE), European Journal of Engineering (EJEE), and International Journal of Engineering Education (IJEE) that had women or gender as a central part of their studies. Titles, keywords, and abstracts for every article in the journals were reviewed for the years 1995–2008. The 88 articles directly addressing gender or women in engineering were analyzed to determine their level of engagement with feminist theory. Result Feminist theory is not widely engaged or systematically developed in this scholarship. Most work rests upon implicitly liberal and standpoint feminist theories, but a minority of articles point to intersectional, interactional, and masculinity studies approaches. We identified several ways in which deeper engagement with a wider range of feminist theories can benefit engineering education scholarship. Conclusion Feminist theory is underutilized within engineering education scholarship. Further engagement with, and systematic development of, feminist theory could be one beneficial way to move the field forward.
Pyrimidine excretion by cultured fibroblasts: effect of mutational deficiency in pyrimidine salvage enzymes.

In cultured fibroblasts, a mutation resulting in deficiency of a pyrimidine salvage enzyme leads to excretion of related pyrimidines. For example, absence of thymidine kinase led to loss of thymidine and deoxyuridine, and absence of deoxycytidine kinase to loss of deoxyuridine. Both wild type and mutant cells excreted uracil; if established lines are representative in this respect, a fully adequate salvage system for uracil does not seem to be present in the fibroblast.
Consumers risk and quality control in a collaborative supply chain

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to provide a strategic collaborative approach to risk and quality control in a cooperative supply chain by using a Neyman–Pearson quantile risk framework for the statistical control of risks. The paper is focused on the statistical quality control of a supplier and a producer, applying the traditional Neyman–Pearson theory to the control of quality in a supply chain environment. In our framework, the risks assumed by the parties in the supply chain depend on the organizational structure, the motivations and the power relationships that exist between members of the supply chain.
Relaxin Gene and Protein Expression and Its Regulation of Procollagenase and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Human Endometrial Cells

Extensive evidence demonstrates pronounced effects of relaxin on the differentiation of human endometrial cells in vitro. In vivo data in rhesus monkeys suggest a role for relaxin in the development of endometrial vascular architecture. In women, pregnancy can be established and maintained in the absence of circulating relaxin. Thus, local synthesis by the endometrium is necessary if relaxin plays a physiological role in human endometrial function. Although relaxin protein and the prorelaxin C peptide have been localized to human endometrium, no data for relaxin synthesis have been provided to date. We therefore assessed relaxin mRNA and protein levels in cultured, defined human endometrial cells. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) techniques were used to demonstrate the presence of relaxin mRNA in human stromal and glandular epithelial cells. Secretion of the protein into the media of cultured cells of both types was also detected. Relaxin stimulated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in glandular epithelial and stromal cells that were isolated from tissue that had been taken during the secretory phase of the cycle. Relaxin inhibited the expression of procollagenase from both glandular epithelial cells, with a more marked inhibition demonstrated from cells that were isolated from tissue that had been taken during the secretory phase, and from stromal cells. These data demonstrate that human endometrial cells synthesize relaxin, and they support the concept that relaxin fosters endometrial conditions that are required for implantation in women.
The Housefly, Musca domestica Linnaeus, as an Exotic Species in the Western Hemisphere Incites Biological Control Studies

The significance of the housefly, Musca domestica Linnaeus, as a probably introduced species in the Western Hemisphere is pertinent to a search for more exotic natural enemies in the Eastern Hemisphere. Avenues of entry into this hemisphere are discussed. A list is provided of the principal larval and pupal parasites found by the authors attacking M. domestica in North, Central, and South America and this is compared to species from the Eastern Hemisphere.
New potential targets for treating myeloma bone disease.

Purpose: Myeloma bone disease results in severe pain and pathologic fractures in >80% of patients. Myeloma bone disease is characterized by both increased osteoclast activity and suppressed new bone formation. The basis for both the increased bone destruction and decreased bone formation has been a topic of extensive investigation during the last several years. Experimental Design: Marrow samples from patients with myeloma were screened by both molecular biological and gene expression profiling techniques to identify factors that may be responsible for the enhanced bone destruction and suppressed bone formation in patients with the disease. Results: Several novel factors have been identified that directly stimulate osteoclastic bone destruction in myeloma. These include receptor activator of NF-κB ligand, macrophage inflammatory peptide 1α, and interleukin (IL)-3. All of these factors are increased in most patients with myeloma. Furthermore, osteoprotegerin levels are markedly suppressed, further driving osteoclast formation. In addition, four novel inhibitors of osteoblast differentiation or activity have been identified. These include two inhibitors of the Wnt signaling pathway, DKK1 and soluble frizzled protein 2. The Wnt signaling pathway is critical for osteoblast differentiation. Two cytokines, IL-3 and IL-7, have also been reported that directly or indirectly inhibit osteoblast differentiation in patients with myeloma. Interestingly, increased macrophage inflammatory peptide 1α, IL-3, and IL-7 result from abnormal transcriptional regulation of these genes by increased levels of acute myelogenous leukemia-1 to acute myelogenous leukemia-1B transcription factors. Conclusions: The recent identification of novel stimulators of osteoclast activity and inhibitors of osteoblast differentiation provide new therapeutic targets for treating this devastating bone disease in patients with myeloma.
Environmental effects on experimental aerogenic tuberculosis in BCG-immunized and non-immunized guinea pigs.

SummaryBCG immunization confers immunity to guinea pigs under cold or high-altitude stress. Cold-exposed BCG-immunized animals had lower levels of immunity than controls, whereas those at high altitude were not significantly different from controls. Non-immunized animals at high altitude may be less susceptible to tuberculosis than those kept at −4°C. Moving boundary electrophoresis of serum samples showed an increase in the α1-globulin of all animals 28 days post infection, and the α1-globulin was greater in non-immunized than in immunized animals.
Size effects on the bending strength of fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites

This article investigates the size effects associated with length and width, on the bending strength of marine grade polymer matrix laminated composites. A new expression for predicting the strength size effect was developed and was verified using both laboratory testing and probabilistic finite element analysis (FEA). Woven [0/45/—45/0]5sf E-glass/vinyl ester material specimens with different lengths and widths and same thickness were evaluated to predict the effect of specimen size on the bending strength. In the probabilistic FEA models, elastic properties (E11, E22, G12, υ12), and strength parameters (F1t, F1c, F2t , F2c, F6, e1t, e 1c, e2t, e2c, e12) of the woven fabric E-glass/vinyl ester ASTM D6272 coupons were considered as random fields, and generated using Monte Carlo simulations. The relationship between the bending strength and specimen size of the [0/45/—45/0]5sf lay-up was also evaluated experimentally. Thirty-two material specimens were prepared and tested according to ASTM D6272 using comb...
Sphingomyelinase Converts Lipoproteins From Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice Into Potent Inducers of Macrophage Foam Cell Formation

Abstract —The apoE knockout (E0) mouse is one of the most widely used animal models of atherosclerosis, and there may be similarities to chylomicron remnant–induced atherosclerosis in humans. Although the lesions of these mice contain large numbers of cholesteryl ester (CE)-laden macrophages (foam cells), E0 plasma lipoproteins are relatively weak inducers of cholesterol esterification in macrophages. Previous in vivo work has suggested that arterial wall sphingomyelinase (SMase) may promote atherogenesis in the E0 mouse, perhaps by inducing subendothelial lipoprotein aggregation and subsequent foam cell formation. The goal of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the modification of E0 lipoproteins by SMase converts these lipoproteins into potent inducers of macrophage foam cell formation. When d f 100-400 hypertriglyceridemic VLDL, raising the possibility that a receptor that recognizes apoB-48 might be involved. In conclusion, SMase-modification of E0 lipoproteins, a process previously shown to occur in lesions, may be an important mechanism for foam cell formation in this widely studied model of atherosclerosis. Moreover, the findings in this report may provide important clues regarding the atherogenicity of chylomicron remnants in humans.