cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Infant Safe Sleep Interventions, 1990–2015: A Review

Sleep-related infant deaths remain a major public health issue. Multiple interventions have been implemented in efforts to increase adherence to safe sleep recommendations. We conducted a systematic review of the international research literature to synthesize research on interventions to reduce the risk of sleep-related deaths and their effectiveness in changing infant sleep practices. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed articles published between 1990 and 2015 which described an intervention and reported results. Twenty-nine articles were included for review. Studies focused on infant caregivers, health care professionals, peers, and child care professionals. Targeted behaviors included sleep position, location, removing items from the crib, breastfeeding, smoke exposure, clothing, pacifier use, and knowledge of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Most articles described multi-faceted interventions, including: one-on-one or group education, printed materials, visual displays, videos, and providing resources such as cribs, pacifiers, wearable blankets, and infant t-shirts. Two described public education campaigns, one used an educative questionnaire, and one encouraged maternal note taking. Health professional interventions included implementing safe sleep policies, in-service training, printed provider materials, eliciting agreement on a Declaration of Safe Sleep Practice, and sharing adherence data. Data collection methods included self-report via surveys and observational crib audits. Over half of the studies utilized comparison groups which helped determine effectiveness. Most articles reported some degree of success in changing some of the targeted behaviors; no studies reported complete adherence to recommendations. Future studies should incorporate rigorous evaluation plans, utilize comparison groups, and collect demographic and collect follow-up data.
Robust Output Feedback Stabilization of Uncertain Dynamic Systems with Bounded Controllers

This paper proposes a new class of infinitely many bounded output feedback controllers for uncertain dynamic systems with bounded uncertainties. No statistical information about the uncertainties is assumed. A variable structure systems approach is employed in the synthesis of the proposed output feedback controllers. The role of the system zeros in the output feedback stabilization using the variable structure approach is discussed. The proposed controllers guarantee the practical stability of the closed-loop system and we give estimates of the regions of practical stability.
Spatially Resolved Hubble Space Telescope Spectra of the Chromosphere of α Orionis

Spatially resolved UV spectra of the supergiant α Orionis (Betelgeuse) obtained in 1995 March with the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph (GHRS) on board the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) show that the chromospheric emission in the Mg II h and k (around 280 nm) lines reaches a diameter of at least ~270 milliarcseconds, about twice the size of ultraviolet continuum images obtained at the same time with the HST Faint Object Camera (FOC), and about 5 times the star's optical diameter. The signature of the unresolved bright spot observed in the 1995 March FOC images occurs in the spectrum as an asymmetry in the intensity measured across the disk at constant wavelength. Because the spectra were obtained scanning across the stellar image, it is possible to measure a differential line shift across the disk of the star that can be interpreted as being due to rotation. If this interpretation is correct, we can determine the axis of rotation of Betelgeuse and estimate its rotational speed to be 1.2 × 10-8 rad s-1, corresponding to a rotation period of 17 yr. In addition, it is plausible that the 1995 March bright spot is congruent with the pole of the star, suggesting that star's angle of inclination is ~20° to the line of sight. Considering the small number of bright spots that are present at any one time on the surface of Betelgeuse, and the signature of the 1995 March spot in the Mg II resonance lines as observed with the GHRS, it appears that such spots are not the consequence of convective flows. Differences in the spatial distribution of the flux emerging from different layers of the atmosphere and the line asymmetries of the Mg II h and k lines suggest that the spot is the signature of an outwardly propagating shock wave in an atmosphere modified by rotation.
Reverse antenna effect due to process-induced quasi-breakdown of gate oxide

It was found that wafer charging during processing can cause the quasi-breakdown of gate oxide and lead to more than four orders of magnitude increase in gate leakage current. Gate oxides that have experienced this quasi-breakdown display minimal transistor parameter shifts under constant gate current stress because the stress field sustained across the oxide is low. As a result, large antenna devices, which experience significant wafer charging, have a greater percentage of oxides which have experienced quasi-breakdown and therefore display smaller than expected parameter shifts. To avoid misleading conclusions, an appropriate interpretation of the characterization results is necessary especially for thin gate oxides.
The paradox of the contrasting roles of chronic magnesium deficiency in metabolic disorders and field cancerization

Magnesium (Mg(2+)) deficiency is common in metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance. These disorders are also associated with a high incidence of cancer. Mg(2+) is the regulator par excellence of metabolism, largely through its role as a cofactor for all phosphoryl transfers in the cell. Because Mg(2+) deficiency inhibits energy production it might be expected to inhibit tumor production. However, the high incidence of cancer in metabolic disorders makes that seem unlikely. In order to understand this seeming paradox, it is important to understand the regulatory role of Mg(2+) in normal and neoplastic cells. Free Mg(2+) is the primary regulator of glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. It also acts as a second messenger for growth factors in regulating protein synthesis. Varying Mg(2+) concentrations result in the same set of coordinated responses as varying serum concentrations. Selection by serial rounds of high cell density or reduced serum concentration at low cell density results in progressive stages of field cancerization. Highly transformed cells proliferate in much lower concentrations of Mg(2+) and grow to much higher saturation densities than normal cells. It remains to be seen whether reduction in Mg(2+) in sparse, exponentially proliferating cultures selects for increases in saturation density and transformed foci.
Speech-perception training for older adults with hearing loss impacts word recognition and effort

The current pupillometry study examined the impact of speech-perception training on word recognition and cognitive effort in older adults with hearing loss. Trainees identified more words at the follow-up than at the baseline session. Training also resulted in an overall larger and faster peaking pupillary response, even when controlling for performance and reaction time. Perceptual and cognitive capacities affected the peak amplitude of the pupil response across participants but did not diminish the impact of training on the other pupil metrics. Thus, we demonstrated that pupillometry can be used to characterize training-related and individual differences in effort during a challenging listening task. Importantly, the results indicate that speech-perception training not only affects overall word recognition, but also a physiological metric of cognitive effort, which has the potential to be a biomarker of hearing loss intervention outcome.
The effect of ion-scale dynamics on electron-temperature-gradient turbulence

This work reports on numerical studies of small-scale electron-temperature-gradient (ETG) turbulence embedded in large-scale turbulence driven by both ion-temperature-gradient (ITG) modes and trapped-electron modes. To begin with, we find that the simplified adiabatic-ion model of ETG turbulence does not always saturate nonlinearly, suggesting that corrections to the purely adiabatic ion response are required for robust saturation. Our results also qualitatively confirm a prediction of Holland and Diamond that the back-reaction of ETG on ITG turbulence is insignificant. For the parameters studied, we find that ETG turbulence levels are reduced as ion driving gradients are increased. This result is at least partially explained by linear physics. An important practical result of this work is the finding that most of the electron energy transport arises from ion scales (kθρi 1.0.
Phosphorylation of CDK9 at Ser175 enhances HIV transcription and is a marker of activated P-TEFb in CD4(+) T lymphocytes.

The HIV transactivator protein, Tat, enhances HIV transcription by recruiting P-TEFb from the inactive 7SK snRNP complex and directing it to proviral elongation complexes. To test the hypothesis that T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling induces critical post-translational modifications leading to enhanced interactions between P-TEFb and Tat, we employed affinity purification–tandem mass spectrometry to analyze P-TEFb. TCR or phorbal ester (PMA) signaling strongly induced phosphorylation of the CDK9 kinase at Ser175. Molecular modeling studies based on the Tat/P-TEFb X-ray structure suggested that pSer175 strengthens the intermolecular interactions between CDK9 and Tat. Mutations in Ser175 confirm that this residue could mediate critical interactions with Tat and with the bromodomain protein BRD4. The S175A mutation reduced CDK9 interactions with Tat by an average of 1.7-fold, but also completely blocked CDK9 association with BRD4. The phosphomimetic S175D mutation modestly enhanced Tat association with CDK9 while causing a 2-fold disruption in BRD4 association with CDK9. Since BRD4 is unable to compete for binding to CDK9 carrying S175A, expression of CDK9 carrying the S175A mutation in latently infected cells resulted in a robust Tat-dependent reactivation of the provirus. Similarly, the stable knockdown of BRD4 led to a strong enhancement of proviral expression. Immunoprecipitation experiments show that CDK9 phosphorylated at Ser175 is excluded from the 7SK RNP complex. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry studies carried out using a phospho-Ser175-specific antibody demonstrated that Ser175 phosphorylation occurs during TCR activation of primary resting memory CD4+ T cells together with upregulation of the Cyclin T1 regulatory subunit of P-TEFb, and Thr186 phosphorylation of CDK9. We conclude that the phosphorylation of CDK9 at Ser175 plays a critical role in altering the competitive binding of Tat and BRD4 to P-TEFb and provides an informative molecular marker for the identification of the transcriptionally active form of P-TEFb.
Luteal progesterone production and regulation in the viviparous dogfish, Squalus acanthias

Although vertebrate viviparity has evolved in parallel on several occasions, the endocrine function of the post-ovulatory follicle (corpus luteum) is only well understood in eutherian mammals. In this report we present evidence that the corpus luteum is a phylogenetically ancient endocrine organ, which secretes progesterone in response to pituitary hormones in a representative of the oldest extant jawed vertebrate (the dogfish, Squalus acanthias). Corpora lutea from pregnant aplacental viviparous spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias, were removed, weighed and incubated in Eagle's Basal Medium supplemented with glutamine and urea for between 4 and 8 h at 18°C in 95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide. Corpora lutea decreased in weight from early to late pregnancy. Using radioisotopic methods, progesterone was definitively identified as a product of stage C corpora lutea. Basal progesterone synthesis, measured by radiommunoassay, increased from 301 ± 11.8 pg/mg/ corpus luteum/4 h in stage A of pregnancy to 1,881 ± 162.7 at stage B, and decreased markedly as corpora lutea decreased in size (stage C, 179 ± 19.2; stage D, 12 ± 3.2). An aqueous extract equivalent to one twenty-fifth of the gonadotropic ventral lobe of the pituitary markedly stimulated progesterone in the incubates of stage C corpora lutea but not other stages. Corpus luteum function as an endocrine organ appears to be an ancient mechanism which antedates the appearance of terrestrial vertebrates.
Monitoring of biofilm formation on different material surfaces of medical devices using hyperspectral imaging method

Contamination of the inner surface of indwelling (implanted) medical devices by microbial biofilm is a serious problem. Some microbial bacteria such as Escherichia coli form biofilms that lead to potentially lifethreatening infections. Other types of medical devices such as bronchoscopes and duodenoscopes account for the highest number of reported endoscopic infections where microbial biofilm is one of the major causes for these infections. We applied a hyperspectral imaging method to detect biofilm contamination on the surface of several common materials used for medical devices. Such materials include stainless steel, titanium, and stainless-steeltitanium alloy. Potential uses of hyperspectral imaging technique to monitor biofilm attachment to different material surfaces are discussed.
Using White Light Interferometry for Mesoscale Part Inspection

Measurement of LIGA parts is critical for characterization and understanding of process variables. Traditionally, measurement using coordinate metrology consists of collecting data points from all of the surfaces of a part (e.g., three dimensional data) and comparing these points with target geometry as defined in a CAD file. Systems such as coordinate measurement machines and laser scanners are often used to collect the data. Unfortunately, three dimensional data collection has proven to be quite difficult for mesoscale parts, such as those created using the LIGA process. The inspection techniques used for larger parts cannot be used for parts of this scale because of physical limitations or poor resolution. This paper targets the use of white light interferometry for the analysis of micro-components produced using the LIGA and stereolithography processes. Both of these processes often create parts that are designed to have a constant cross section with planar top and bottom surfaces. Assuming this geometric relationship holds true, the analysis of just the top or bottom surface of the part can provide useful information pertaining to process capability and part geometry. White light interferometry is well-suited to the measurement of these planar surfaces. This paper will discuss techniques used to analyze two dimensional part parameters using white light interferometry in combination with image processing techniques. Several case studies are included to show the abilities of the measurement and processing methods.© 2003 ASME
Numerical methods for coupled super-resolution

The process of combining, via mathematical software tools, a set of low-resolution images into a single high-resolution image is often referred to as super-resolution. Algorithms for super-resolution involve two key steps: registration and reconstruction. Most approaches proposed in the literature decouple these steps, solving each independently. This can be effective if there are very simple, linear displacements between the low-resolution images. However, for more complex, nonlinear, nonuniform transformations, estimating the displacements can be very difficult, leading to severe inaccuracies in the reconstructed high-resolution image. This paper presents a mathematical framework and optimization algorithms that can be used to jointly estimate these quantities. Efficient implementation details are considered, and numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Erythrolic acids A-E, Meroterpenoids from a Marine-Derived Erythrobacter sp

Erythrolic acids A-E (1-5) are five unusual meroterpenoids isolated from the bacterium Erythrobacter sp. derived from a marine sediment sample collected in Galveston, TX. The structures were elucidated by means of detailed spectroscopic analysis and chemical derivatization. The erythrolic acids contain a 4-hydroxybenzoic acid appended with a modified terpene side chain. The side-chain modifications include oxidation of a terminal methyl substituent and in the case of 1-4 addition of a two-carbon unit to give terpene side chains of unusual length: C22 for 1 and 2, C17 for 3, and C12 for 4. The relative and absolute configurations of the meroterpenoids were determined by coupling constant, NOE, and Mosher's analysis. In vitro cytotoxicity toward a number of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines revealed only modest activity for erythrolic acid D (4) (2.5 μM against HCC44). The discovery of these unusual diterpenes, along with the previously reported erythrazoles, demonstrates the natural product potential of a previously unstudied group of bacteria for drug discovery. The unusual nature of the terpene side chain, we believe, involves an oxidation of a terminal methyl group to a carboxylic acid and subsequent Claisen condensation with acetyl-CoA.
Information communication technologies for gender and development in Africa The case for radio and technological blending

The information communication technologies for development literature (ICT4D) has identified information communication technologies (ICTs) as a significant tool for economic and social development ...
A two-species competition model on Zd

Abstract We consider a two-type stochastic competition model on the integer lattice Z d . The model describes the space evolution of two “species” competing for territory along their boundaries. Each site of the space may contain only one representative (also referred to as a particle) of either type. The spread mechanism for both species is the same: each particle produces offspring independently of other particles and can place them only at the neighboring sites that are either unoccupied, or occupied by particles of the opposite type. In the second case, the old particle is killed by the newborn. The rate of birth for each particle is equal to the number of neighboring sites available for expansion. The main problem we address concerns the possibility of the long-term coexistence of the two species. We have shown that if we start the process with finitely many representatives of each type, then, under the assumption that the limit set in the corresponding first passage percolation model is uniformly curved, there is positive probability of coexistence.
Middle Management and Information Systems Strategy: The Role of Awareness and Involvement

Top management involvement is important to the success of IS strategy. However, it is not typically within top management's role to implement strategy, rather, strategy implementation falls under the purview of middle management. This study investigates the importance of middle management involvement in and awareness of IS Strategy. Using a survey of 100 middle managers, the study discovers that the importance of middle management involvement and awareness depends on the underlying IS strategy. It is more important for middle managers to be aware of and involved in the IS strategy when it is innovative than when it is conservative. In fact, middle managers prefer to not be involved when the strategy is conservative. The results have theoretical implications for the theory of IS strategy and practical implications for the relationship of CIOs with business units.
Base of skull chordoma. A correlative study of histologic and clinical features of 62 cases

Background. Chordomas are uncommon primary malignant tumors of bone that typically occur in the axial skeleton including the sacrum, vertebrae, and skull base. The base of skull tumors usually are not amenable to complete surgical resection, and most require postoperative radiotherapy. The natural history of skull base chordoma is typified by slow locally invasive tumor progression and eventual death, although few parameters are known that allow stratification of patients into prognostic groups. Methods. Sixty-two patients with skull base chordomas treated at the Massachusetts General Hospital by proton beam irradiation therapy with at least 2 years of follow-up information were reviewed in an attempt to identify clinical and pathologic parameters that predicted outcome. Results. Female sex, tumor necrosis in preradiation treatment biopsy, and tumor volume in excess of 70 ml were each independent predictors of shortened overall survival after radiation therapy for skull base chordoma. Conclusions. Stratification of patients with skull base chordoma into poor and good outcome groups can be performed using the three parameters identified in our study. In addition, the striking difference in survival between the sexes suggests that further investigations of these tumors should include determination of their hormonal receptor status and consideration of hormonal manipulation in their management.
Evaporation of Methanol/Water Mixtures in Microchannels

This paper presents research on the evaporation of methanol/water mixtures in uniformly heated, constant cross-section silicon serpentine microchannels. The phase change of a variety of mixtures of methanol and water was observed, characterized and compared to the phase change both of pure water and pure methanol. Seven fluids were tested: pure water, pure methanol and five different molar fractions of methanol mixed with water. Flow rates were varied from Reynolds number five to ten. In the microscale system, it is shown that the flow boiling characteristics of the methanol/water mixtures are markedly different from those of pure liquids. Specifically, for the binary system there is a lack of a clear meniscus that spans the microchannel, which is seen in the pure fluid systems. Rather, the phase change of binary mixtures appears to occur over a much greater length of microchannel than for pure fluids. Unstable, intermittent evaporation fronts were also observed within the channels for moderate levels of superheat that are most likely dictated by the local temperature and pressure variations along the channel. Furthermore, at no time was bubble formation observed, despite the fact that several of the mixtures were subject to superheats as great as 20°C.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
The influence of thyroid deficiency on the structure and epinephrin content of the adrenal gland of the albino rat (Mus norvegicus albinus)

It was found that thyroid deficiency in the albino rat (Mus norvegicus albinus) is followed by a trend to increased concentration of epinephrin in the suprarenals. The basis of this lies in the relatively greater retrogression of the cortex as contrasted with the medulla which becomes a relatively greater proportion of the organ as a whole. Confirmatory evidence is found in cell counts per unit area and the part of the disappearance of lipoid from the cortical cells of the suprarenals of thyroidless animals.
Enthalpies of formation of the p-xylene + carbon tetrachloride and the benzene + hexafluorobenzene solid addition compounds

Abstract A Perkin Elmer DSC-2 differential scanning calorimeter was used to measure the enthalpies of fusion of benzene, hexafluorobenzene, p -xylene, carbon tetrachloride, and the solid addition compounds which form between p -xylene + carbon tetrachloride and benzene + hexafluorobenzene. The enthalpies of fusion are corrected to 291.15 K and combined with liquid-phase enthalpies of mixing to calculate the enthalpies of formation of the two solid addition compounds from the solid molecular components. The results are −(10.09±0.20) kJ mol −1 and −(0.08±0.20) kJ mol −1 , for p -xylene + carbon tetrachloride and benzene + hexafluorobenzene, respectively. These results support the conclusions drawn indirectly from the study of phase equilibria that the CCl 4 addition compounds with aromatic hydrocarbons are considerably more stable than the analogous C 6 F 6 compounds.
A model on the influence of age on immunity to infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Increasing susceptibility of the elderly to many infectious diseases is highly associated with the loss or delay in the generation of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells. For Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, where antigen-specific CD4+ T cell derived IFN-γ is essential, such a loss can lead to a significant failure to control infection. The present paper develops a mathematical model of infection with M. tuberculosis in old mice. The model includes an early resistance to infection which is mediated by CD8+ T cells. A subsequent reversal of this phenotype results from the slow generation of CD4+ T cell mediated immunity in old age. The model simulations corroborate experimental data and hence, the model was used to test whether immunity to infection could be improved in old mice, if CD4+ T cell responses were enhanced. Our simulations indicate that boosting antigen presentation and T cell proliferation can decrease the M. tuberculosis burden in the lung.
Moderating effects of goal orientation on the negative consequences of gender-based preferential selection

Two studies examined the moderating effect of situationally induced goal orientation on the negative effects of gender-based preferential selection for women and the extent to which ability perceptions mediate the impact of selection method. Study 1 found that under a performance orientation women selected on the basis of gender evaluated their performance less favorably and reported less desire to remain in the task than women selected on the basis of merit. Under a learning orientation women's responses were not affected by selection method. Study 2 generalized this effect to task performance, examining both males and females. As hypothesized, men did not experience negative effects of preferential selection. Negative effects of preferential selection on performance for women were found only under a performance orientation. Both studies suggested that ability perceptions do not fully mediate the effects of preferential selection.
A higher-order shear deformation theory of laminated elastic shells

A higher-order shear deformation theory of elastic shells is developed for shells laminated of orthotropic layers. The theory is a modification of the Sanders' theory and accounts for parabolic distribution of the transverse shear strains through thickness of the shell and tangential stress-free boundary conditions on the boundary surfaces of the shell. The Navier-type exact solutions for bending and natural vibration are presented for cylindrical and spherical shells under simply supported boundary conditions.
Demonstrating attainment of the air quality standards: integration of observations and model predictions into the probabilistic framework.

ABSTRACT This paper introduces an integrated observational-modeling approach to transform the deterministic nature of attainment demonstrations of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) into the probabilistic framework. While the methods presented here can be used to address any air quality standard that is based on extreme values, this paper focuses on the application to the 1-hr and 8-hr NAAQS for ozone. Extreme value statistics and resampling techniques are applied to estimate the probability of exceeding the NAAQS for both 1-hr and 8-hr ozone concentrations. Within the integrated observation-modeling analysis approach, we show that the model-to-model differences in the predicted responses to emission reductions are smaller than the model-to-model differences in predicted absolute ozone concentrations. We illustrate that the emission reductions stemming from a real-world emission control strategy would substantially reduce the probability of exceeding the NAAQS over a large portion of the ea...
Divorce and the elite household in late medieval Cairo.

This article examines the rate and causes of divorce among the elite households of late fifteenth-century Cairo. By using a unique contemporary chronicle, it is possible to estimate that a third of all marriages ended in divorce. Wives initiated divorces at least as often as their husbands. They did so by reaching a divorce settlement with their husbands for a financial compensation, or, in the case of desertion, by using the courts to impose a judicial divorce. In the vast majority of the cases, the causes for the divorce were grounded in marital relations. In spite of the importance of marriage alliances for the elite household, these marriages did eventually hinge on the mutual consent of the two individuals concerned.
Malignant monotypic epithelioid angiomyolipoma of the retroperitoneum.

Monotypic epithelioid angiomyolipoma (EAML) is an uncommon variant of angiomyolipoma, occurring primarily in the kidney and characterized by a predominance of HMB-45-positive epithelioid cells. EAML is generally considered a benign neoplasm, though rare cases exhibiting malignant behavior have been reported. We describe a patient with a primary retroperitoneal monotypic EAML, composed exclusively of atypical epithelioid cells, which metastasized to the liver and the mediastinum. This case represents, to our knowledge, the first description of metastatic disease occurring in an EAML of this particular site
Mining the Web for Reciprocal Relationships

In this paper we address the problem of identifying reciprocal relationships in English. In particular we introduce an algorithm that semi-automatically discovers patterns encoding reciprocity based on a set of simple but effective pronoun templates. Using a set of most frequently occurring patterns, we extract pairs of reciprocal pattern instances by searching the web. Then we apply two unsupervised clustering procedures to form meaningful clusters of such reciprocal instances. The pattern discovery procedure yields an accuracy of 97%, while the clustering procedures indicate accuracies of 91% and 82%. Moreover, the resulting set of 10,882 reciprocal instances represent a broad-coverage resource.
In Vitro Evaluation of Radioprotective and Radiosensitizing Effects of Rituximab

UNLABELLED Clinical radioimmunotherapies with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies involve administering a predose of unlabeled anti-CD20 antibodies to favorably alter the biodistribution profile of the subsequently administered radiolabeled antibodies and mediate antitumor effects. Prior in vitro data suggested that unlabeled anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies radiosensitize lymphoma cells as well. We assessed the antiproliferative and possible radiosensitizing capabilities of an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab. METHODS Luciferase-transfected (via a lentivirus vector) CD20+ human Raji lymphoma cells in log-phase growth were incubated with or without rituximab (20 microg/mL) for either 1 or 24 h before external-beam radiation exposure. Cell counts were measured with a luciferase assay at 24-h intervals. Subsets of these cells were also analyzed for cell cycle status by flow cytometry. RESULTS Rituximab pretreatment and irradiation were found to significantly inhibit tumor cell growth compared with irradiation alone (by a factor of 0.40 at 1 Gy [P < 0.01]). One hour of rituximab pretreatment modestly radiosensitized tumor cells at a radiation dose of 1 Gy (by a factor of 1.03 compared with the results for nonirradiated cells). At higher radiation doses (2 and 12 Gy), 1 h of rituximab pretreatment paradoxically radioprotected tumor cells by factors of 0.25 (P < 0.01) and 0.54 (P < 0.05), respectively. Rituximab predosing for 24 h was found to be radiosensitizing at a radiation dose of 4 Gy (by a factor of 2.84 [P < 0.01]) but radioprotective at radiation doses of 1, 8, and 12 Gy (by factors of 0.10 [P < 0.01], 2.50 [P < 0.01], and 2.07 [P < 0.05], respectively). These results correlated with retardation of the cell cycle at 6 d after rituximab administration, as determined by flow cytometry. CONCLUSION Rituximab demonstrated a direct tumor antiproliferative effect in the absence of radiation. At lower levels of radiation exposure, rituximab radiosensitized Raji lymphoma cells. At higher doses of radiation, rituximab paradoxically protected tumor cells against ionizing radiation, possibly through effects on the cell cycle. These radiobiologic effects of rituximab should be carefully considered in the design of radioimmunotherapeutic trials.
Creation of gap solitons in Bose-Einstein condensates

We discuss a method to launch gap solitonlike structures in atomic Bose-Einstein condensates confined in optical traps. Bright vector solitons consisting of a superposition of two hyperfine Zeeman sublevels can be created for both attractive and repulsive interactions between the atoms. Their formation relies on the dynamics of the atomic internal ground states in two far-off-resonance counterpropagating $({\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{+}\ensuremath{-}{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}})$-polarized laser beams that form the optical trap. Numerical simulations show that these solitons can be prepared from a one-component state provided with an initial velocity.
SCF ab-initio ground state potential energy surfaces for HCN and HCN−

Abstract SCF computations for the ground state potential surfaces of HCN and HCN− are performed. These calculations predict that the ground state geometry of the radical anion is Re(CH) = 2.12 bohr, Re(CN) = 2.33 bohr and the bond angle θ = 121.7°. The calculations also show that the CH bond in HCN− is much weaker than in HCN and is similar to the CH bond in HCO. The computed electron affinity is −1.95 eV. Since the minimum on the potential energy curve for the anion is above the neutral curve rapid auto-ionization should occur to HCN and an electron.
Peripheral CGRP release as a marker for neurogenic inflammation: a model system for the study of neuropeptide secretion in rat paw skin

The local release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides in the periphery has been associated with the development of neurogenic inflammation. However, there is an increasing number of reports demonstrating tissue-dependent differences regarding the mechanisms engaged by these neuropeptides to initiate and maintain the inflammatory response in the target tissue. Since skin is often involved in tissue injury, the present studies were designed to develop a model for assessing cutaneous peptide secretion as a marker for neurogenic inflammation in skin tissue. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), as one of several neuropeptides known to be involved in neurogenic inflammation, was chosen to study capsaicin-induced effects on peripheral neurosecretion. The corial surface of the hairy skin of a rat hindlimb was superfused in vitro, and the basal and capsaicin-evoked peripheral release of immunoreactive CGRP (iCGRP) was measured using a radioimmunoassay. The main objectives of these studies were to characterize the various properties of this release including dose-dependency, exocytosis and receptor-mediation as well as the effects of acute and long-term capsaicin desensitization. Capsaicin significantly and dose-dependently increased the release of iCGRP at concentrations ranging from 3 to 300 microM. Omission of calcium ions or treatment with the competitive capsaicin receptor antagonist capsazepine completely inhibited the capsaicin-induced iCGRP release. Superfusion of the skin with 100 microM capsaicin following a conditioning stimulation with capsaicin at concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 100 microM led to an acute, dose-dependent desensitization of the CGRP response. In addition, chronic desensitization following the neonatal injection of capsaicin completely abolished the acute iCGRP response to capsaicin. The method described here should prove to be a valuable tool for the evaluation of the processes regulating the peripheral, cutaneous release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides. This strategy, therefore, may lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development and maintenance of neurogenic inflammation, particularly in the skin.
Single-shot subpixel response measurement with an aperture array pixel mask

We first point out that the subpixel response function is another kernel function in digital imaging. Then we show that the subpixel response function of CMOS imaging sensor pixels can be measured with an aperture array pixel mask in a single-shot image capture. Our technique permits high-resolution subpixel response function measurement of imaging pixels for superresolution imaging applications.
Quantitation of basal dyssynchrony and acute resynchronization from left or biventricular pacing by novel echo-contrast variability imaging.

Abstract Objectives This study sought to test a novel echocardiographic method based on contrast variability imaging (CVI), to quantify cardiac dyssynchrony and magnitude of resynchronization achieved by left ventricular (LV) and biventricular (BiV) pacing therapy. Background Left ventricular or BiV pacing is a promising new therapy for patients with heart failure and intraventricular conduction delay. However, precise quantitation of the extent of resynchronization achieved remains scant. Methods Ten patients treated with BiV or LV pacing therapy were studied. Echo-contrast was infused slowly, and gated images were acquired before and during contrast appearance. The temporally normalized variance derived from 30 to 50 sequential beats was determined at each pixel to yield the CVI image—displaying improved wall delineation. Systolic regional fractional area of radial sectors was calculated with active and temporarily suspended (AAI) pacing. All analyses were performed blinded to both patient and treatment. Results Pacing increased septal inward motion from −20.4 ± 9.6% to −30.5 ± 14.0%, whereas lateral wall motion occurred earlier with no net magnitude change. Both spatial and temporal dyssynchrony in the LV declined nearly 40% with LV or BiV pacing (p ≤ 0.001), and this correlated with increasing ejection fraction (31% to 39%; p Conclusions The new imaging and regional dyssynchrony analysis methods provide quantitative assessment of resynchronization analogous to that previously obtained only by tagged magnetic resonance imaging. This could provide a useful noninvasive method for both identifying candidates and following long-term therapy.
Expression of human plasma protein genes in ageing transgenic mice.

Introduction of human plasma protein genes into the mouse genome to produce transgenic mice furnishes an in vivo model for correlating chromosomal DNA sequences with developmental and tissue-specific expression. The liver produces an array of plasma proteins that circulate throughout the body contributing to homeostasis. Non-hepatic tissue sites of synthesis have been identified where a local provision of plasma proteins is needed. Analysis of expression of human plasma protein genes in ageing transgenic mice appears especially promising in identifying DNA sequences that respond to environmental adversities such as inflammatory factors, hormonal changes and metal toxicity. The results indicate that human genes encoding and controlling liver plasma proteins serve as useful models for studying genetic regulation in the background of development and ageing.
Failure of maternal vitamin A depletion to produce congenital anomalies in the young of rats.

Summary1. Lack of vitamin A failed to induce congenital anomalies in the young of rats. 2. Very severely depleted female rats refuse to mate. In order of decreasing severity of depletion, they will: mate but fail to conceive; conceive but resorb their fetuses; give birth to dead fetuses with difficult and protracted labor after a prolonged gestation; show only prolonged gestation.
Ensifer adhaerens gen. nov., sp. nov.: A Bacterial Predator of Bacteria in Soil†

A bacterial predator of bacteria in soil is described. This gram-negative predator was previously designated strain A. It is not an obligate predator, for it grows in the absence of host cells on a variety of media, including a medium composed of Noble agar in distilled water. It does not hydrolyze agar. The presence of host cells causes an overall increase in the growth of strain A on Noble agar but, except for tracking, does not do so on nutritionally richer media. During growth on most media in the presence of host cells, such as cells of Micrococcus luteus, strain A attaches in a picket fence arrangement to the host cells. Lysis of the host cells ensues if the pH of the environment remains approximately in the range from 6.0 to 6.5. At higher pH values, tracking and attachment occur, but without lysis of the host cells. A factor that diffuses through agar and causes lysis was detected emanating from strain A during growth on a nutritionally dilute medium. Strain A was shown to multiply by budding at one pole of the cell, followed by asymmetric polar growth and binary fission. Additional morphological and biochemical characteristics of strain A are presented. A new genus, Ensifer, is proposed for this bacterium. The type species is Ensifer adhaerens sp. nov., and strain A (= ATCC 33212) is the type strain of this species.
Hera: the HEASARC web-based data analysis environment

Hera is a new experiment at the HEASARC (High Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center) at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center to provide a complete data analysis environment over the Internet for archival researchers. This new facility complements the existing Browse database search facility that is available on the Web. With Hera, users can search the HEASARC data archives with a Web browser and save any selected data set to their Hera disk space area. This only takes a few seconds compared to the many minutes or hours that it could take to down load large data sets to the user's local machine. The user can then immediately log into one of the available Hera server machines and begin analyzing the data without having to install any local software except for a very small Hera client application program that runs on the user's local machine. Hera is currently most useful for expert users who are already familiar with analyzing high energy data sets with the HEASARC software. In the future we intend to make Hera more useful for the novice scientific user by providing more on-line help features to guide the user through the data analysis process.
Meningocerebral hemangiomatosis resembling Sturge-Weber disease in a horse

A 3-year-old horse presented with intermittent generalized seizures of 2-month duration. During interictal periods, the horse appeared normal and a cause for the seizures could not be identified. Necropsy revealed opacity of the leptomeninges, covering most of one cerebral hemisphere along with thinning and collapse of the cortex in the ipsilateral pyriform lobe. Histopathology demonstrated leptomeningeal vascular proliferation and meningothelial hyperplasia. Prominent tortuous vessels of the gyri and sulci extended into some regions of the subjacent cortex, where there was neuronal loss, ectopia, and disorganization. Clusters of prominent arterioles were found in the sclerotic choroid plexus of the lateral and fourth ventricles. Milder vascular lesions were present in the leptomeninges of the ventral brain stem, right cerebrum, spinal cord, and in the eye. The left trigeminal nerve was distorted by swollen fasicles containing onion bulb-like structures. Most bulbs contained central axons surrounded by myelin sheaths of variable thickness. Electron microscopy demonstrated concentrically arranged cells with continuous basal laminae and rare pinocytotic vesicles. S-100 immunohistochemistry showed strong positive staining in these cells. This is an unusual combination of lesions to which analogies can be drawn with the human neuroectodermal dysplasias, specifically Sturge-Weber disease. The relationship of the neuropathy to the leptomeningeal hemangiomatosis is unclear, but a compound anomaly in embryological development resulting in dysplasia and neoplasia may be involved.
Newer Monitoring Techniques to Determine the Risk of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis affects up to 10% of neonates who are born weighing less than 1500 g. It has a high rate of morbidity and mortality, and predicting infants who will be affected has so far been unsuccessful. In this article, a number of new methods are discussed from the literature to determine if any currently available techniques may allow for the identification of patients who are at increased risk for developing this potentially lethal disease.
Equality FOR the labor market: An appreciation of W. H. Hutt

I am optimistic about the future of labor economics. The socialist world-view, and the sentimentality that made that world-view so attractive to so many well inten-tioned people, has collapsed. Eventually even pro-union labor economists will have to accept that fact. The impulse to treat labor as a special case was, I believe, based on socialist sentiments. Private sector unionism is declining throughout the devel-oped world. According to Leo Troy (1994), American private sector union density will be 7 percent by the year 2000 — exactly what it was in 1900. Troy calls this the symmetry of history. Labor economists who focus on the private sector will come increasingly to regard unionism as irrelevant to contemporary analysis. They will come increasingly to believe, as Hutt always did, that labor economics should be nothing more or less than the application of economic principles to the labor market. More than most other economists of the twentieth century, Hutt has made straight the path to such a reconstruction of labor economics.
Simulation of Martian chaotic terrain and outflow channels

Abstract Outflow channeling and associated chaotic terrain were created under temperature and pressure conditions suggested for a diluvian period on Mars 3.5 to 0.5 by ago. Pressures under which both features were formed ranged from 130 to 34 mbar at a constant ambient temperature of 266°K. Analogs of the collapse structures and channels evolved in a high-altitude/low-temperature chamber are found on the Martian surface. Similarities exist not only in their overall morphology but in the finer details of the megastructures themselves. The critical factor that allowed channelized flow to occur was the sudden release of liquid water derived from melting of subsurface ground ice and ice layers under the low atmospheric pressure and temperature conditions within the chamber. Experimentation may indicate the existence of substantially thick water ice layers beneath the Martian regolith prior to the outflow channeling episode.
High-speed binary optic microlens array in GaAs

We report the development of binary optic microlens arrays in GaAs. The application of this microlens array is for (gamma) -hardening of HgCdTe focal plane arrays. We intend to reduce the effective spot size of the picture elements and provide significant nuclear hardening for the focal plane array by considerable volume reduction of the detector elements. The microlens design is an eight-phase level approximation to an ideal kinoform lens. The lenses are designed to focus into the GaAs or air with a focal length of 480 micrometers or 148 micrometers respectively, at (lambda) equals 9 micrometers . Arrays of square lenses and individual circular lenses were fabricated. The square lens dimensions and f-numbers are 120 micrometers X 120 micrometers , f/1.23; 240 micrometers X 240 micrometers , f/0.62; and 480 micrometers X 480 micrometers , f/0.31, respectively. Designs include correction for spherical aberration. A set of four 10X projection masks was designed using graphic language (GPL) interfaced to computer-generated binary optics elements. The binary optic pattern was etched into the 3'' diameter GaAs substrate by reactive ion etching. Highly anisotropic etch profiles were obtained with feature heights in excess of 2 micrometers . Measured microlens efficiency for f/1.23 microlenses was as high as 60. The average measured value for a whole array was 55. Measurement of the point spread function at (lambda) equals 10.6 micrometers demonstrates optical concentration. This demonstration of binary optic microlenses in GaAs is of considerable importance to the future integration of purely optical and optoelectronic functions on a single wafer.