cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Framework for Analyzing Observation Data in Patient-Centered Registries: Case Study for Patients With Depression.

BACKGROUND Patient-centered registries are essential in population-based clinical care for patient identification and monitoring of outcomes. Although registry data may be used in real time for patient care, the same data may further be used for secondary analysis to assess disease burden, evaluation of disease management and health care services, and research. The design of a registry has major implications for the ability to effectively use these clinical data in research. OBJECTIVE This study aims to develop a systematic framework to address the data and methodological issues involved in analyzing data in clinically designed patient-centered registries. METHODS The systematic framework was composed of 3 major components: visualizing the multifaceted and heterogeneous patient-centered registries using a data flow diagram, assessing and managing data quality issues, and identifying patient cohorts for addressing specific research questions. RESULTS Using a clinical registry designed as a part of a collaborative care program for adults with depression at Mayo Clinic, we were able to demonstrate the impact of the proposed framework on data integrity. By following the data cleaning and refining procedures of the framework, we were able to generate high-quality data that were available for research questions about the coordination and management of depression in a primary care setting. We describe the steps involved in converting clinically collected data into a viable research data set using registry cohorts of depressed adults to assess the impact on high-cost service use. CONCLUSIONS The systematic framework discussed in this study sheds light on the existing inconsistency and data quality issues in patient-centered registries. This study provided a step-by-step procedure for addressing these challenges and for generating high-quality data for both quality improvement and research that may enhance care and outcomes for patients. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/18366.
Understanding productivity effects of hydraulic fracturing in unconventional natural gas deposits and implications for adoption in the developing world

Hydraulic fracturing (HF) has transformed the North American oil and gas industry, leading to increased consumer surplus and reduced carbon emissions. While HF may have similar potential for the developing world, adoption has been limited to date, plausibly because of perceptions of potential local costs and the need to develop technical proficiency. We empirically evaluate the incremental contribution of HF in the United States. We find considerable evidence of differences in application and productivity across operating firms and vertical pairings of firms, suggesting intellectual property and learning by doing may both play important roles. At the same time, secrecy regarding the chemical composition of fluids used in HF is a potential deterrent to its application for fear of local costs. Developing countries must accommodate these characteristics if adoption of HF is to help meet energy demands and achieve climate policy goals.
Regulation of the NMDA receptor by its cytoplasmic domains: (How) is the tail wagging the dog?

Abstract Excitatory neurotransmission mediated by N-methyl- d -aspartate receptors (NMDARs) is critical for synapse development, function, and plasticity in the brain. NMDARs are tetra-heteromeric cation-channels that mediate synaptic transmission and plasticity. Extensive human studies show the existence of genetic variants in NMDAR subunits genes (GRIN genes) that are associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD), epilepsy (EP), intellectual disability (ID), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia (SCZ). NMDAR subunits have a unique modular architecture with four semiautonomous domains. Here we focus on the carboxyl terminal domain (CTD), also known as the intracellular C-tail, which varies in length among the glutamate receptor subunits and is the most diverse domain in terms of amino acid sequence. The CTD shows no sequence homology to any known proteins but encodes short docking motifs for intracellular binding proteins and covalent modifications. Our review will discuss the many important functions of the CTD in regulating NMDA membrane and synaptic targeting, stabilization, degradation targeting, allosteric modulation and metabotropic signaling of the receptor. This article is part of the special issue on ‘Glutamate Receptors - NMDA Receptors'.
Patterns of rescue following reversal with neostigmine and sugammadex: A longitudinal observational study

Abstract Background Sugammadex is approved for reversal of rocuronium and vecuronium induced Neuromuscular Blockade (NMB). The need for rescue agent for patients with Residual Neuromuscular Blockade (rNMB) following attempted antagonism with neostigmine versus sugammadex has not been widely reported. Methods We analyzed retrospective data from electronic anesthesia records to identify surgical cases utilizing non-depolarizing NMB and subsequently received two or more doses of reversal agent. We assessed reversal rescue rates over time following the introduction of sugammadex and compared rescue rates for patients receiving neostigmine vs sugammadex. Results A total of 24,027 cases using cisatricurium, rocuronium, and vecuronium were analyzed. Reversal with neostigmine decreased from 79% to 5% (p Conclusions As sugammadex utilization increased and neostigmine declined, the percentage of patients receiving rescue reversal after neostigmine increased. Possible explanations include greater awareness of weakness and increased willingness to give rescue sugammadex when rNMB is suspected, or there may indeed be higher rates of rNMB when neostigmine is used due to improper administration of this medication.
Decentralization, Local Governance, and Social Wellbeing in India: Do Local Governments Matter?

1. The Promise of Decentralization 2. Decentralization in India - Rooting the State 3. Karnataka - Advances with the Help of Competitive Local Governments 4. West Bengal - Continuity and Domination at a Cost 5. Uttar Pradesh - Fractionalized Power and Local Governments 6. Political Power, Local Governments, and Social Welfare Appendix A: Powers to be Delegates to Panchayats by State Governments Appendix B: Methodology Appendix C: Field Research Questionnaire
Eigenrhythms: Drum pattern basis sets for classification and generation

We took a collection of 100 drum beats from popular music tracks and estimated the measure length and downbeat position of each one. Using these values, we normalized each pattern to form an ensemble of aligned drum patterns. Principal Component Analysis on this data set results in a set of basis ‘patterns’ that can be combined to give approximations and interpolations of all the examples. We use this low-dimension representation of the drum patterns as a space for classification and visualization, and discuss its application to generating continua of rhythms. Our classification results were very modest – about 20% correct on a 10-way genre classification task – but we show that the projection into principal component space reveals aspects of the rhythm that are largely orthogonal to genre but are still perceptually relevant.
Modeling and generation tools for large-scale, real-time embedded systems

High energy physics experiments require very large, real-time computation. Furthermore, the computers that implement on-line processing must be very reliable, due to the large cost of operating the facilities and the potential for loss of irreplaceable data. Standard, redundant fault tolerance approaches are not appropriate due to system costs (Fault handling is limited to 10% overhead). Adaptive, fault-mitigation approaches must be used instead. In this paper, we describe a set of tools for specifying and implementing user-defined adaptation algorithms, using model-based representation for specification and software synthesis for implementation.
Comparison of virtual microscopy and glass slide microscopy among dermatology residents during a simulated in-training examination

Background Virtual microscopy is increasingly being used in dermatopathology educational settings. Objective The objective is to evaluate diagnostic accuracy and attitudes between virtual microscopy and traditional glass slide microscopy among dermatology residents. Methods A 48-question dermatopathology examination was administered to 35 dermatology residents at three different dermatology residency training sites during the 2011–2012 academic year with half (n = 24) of the questions using the gold standard of glass slide microscopy and half (n = 24) using whole, scanned virtual slides. Correct number of questions using glass slides and virtual slides was evaluated. Participants were surveyed regarding previous experience with digital slide imaging; quality, ease of use, and speed of slide review; and overall microscopy preferences. Results Overall, diagnostic accuracy was better with glass slides than virtual slides (p = 0.01). However, no statistically significant difference was found in diagnostic accuracy of first-year trainees (p > 0.99) or trainees with exposure to virtual microscopy greater than two times per month (p = 0.27). There was no overall personal preference for glass slide vs. virtual microscopy. Limitations Different cases and questions were used for glass slides and virtual microscopy. Conclusions Diagnostic accuracy with virtual microscopy is dependent on year of residency training and prior experience with virtual microscopy.
Digital Inclusion as Public Policy: Disputes in the Human Rights Field

The main objective of this study is to examine digital inclusion as a field of State activity and public policies. We first examine some of the meanings attributed to digital inclusion and the public policy dilemmas that arise from them. We do this by referring to the discussions present in human rights literature, understanding the right to communication as one aspect of the issue. We subsequently defend the importance of approaching digital inclusion as a social right through the establishment of a dialogue with the field of education. We then present the concept of digital literacy, which looks far beyond access to ICTs, requiring that the social skills and practices necessary for society’s current technological juncture be defined in order for them to become the focus of new public policies.
Specific increase in pyrimidine deoxynucleoside transport at the time of deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in 3T3 mouse cells.

Abstract Initiation of division of density-inhibited 3T3 mouse fibroblasts by fresh serum brought about increased uptake of thymidine and deoxycytidine which coincided closely in time with initiation of DNA synthesis. This increase was specific, for transport of deoxyadenosine, deoxyguanosine and orthophosphate did not change at the time of DNA synthesis. Although similar increases occurred for thymidine and deoxycytidine, kinetic studies indicated that they were taken up by different transport systems. The increased transport of thymidine represented an increase in net uptake, since uptake was stimulated more than efflux. Increased thymidine uptake was not caused by increased rates of DNA synthesis, since inhibition of DNA synthesis did not prevent the transport increase. In addition, it did not require thymidine kinase, since 3T3 cells lacking this enzyme showed the transport increase. Kinetic studies revealed that the increase was accompanied by an increased Vmax with no change in Km, indicating activation and/or increased amount of the same rather than a new transport system. Uptake of thymidine at both the basal and stimulated levels occurred by facilitated diffusion below about 5 µm and by passive diffusion above this concentration. Increased uptake of thymidine was prevented by cycloheximide and further increased by actinomycin D, suggesting that the increase required newly made protein(s) whose synthesis might be controlled at the post-transcriptional level.
Choosing to have Less Choice

This paper investigates choice between opportunity sets. I argue that individuals may prefer to have fewer options for two reasons: First, smaller choice sets may provide information and reduce the need for the agent to contemplate the alternatives. Second, contemplation costs may be increasing in the size of the choice set, making smaller sets more desirable even when they do not provide any information to the agent. I identify which of these reasons drives individual behavior in a laboratory experiment. I find strong support for both the information and cognitive overload arguments. The effects do not disappear as participants gain experience with the task. Applications of these results include firms' choices of product variety, as costs increase with the number of products offered, and the design of government policies, such as the Medicare Drug Discount Card Program, in which older citizens can choose among numerous cards for discounts in prescription drugs.
l-Asparaginase from Escherichia coli B PHYSICOCHEMICAL STUDIES OF THE DISSOCIATION PROCESS

Abstract l-Asparaginase from Escherichia coli B has a fluorescence maximum at 320 nm in addition to shoulders at 307 and 325 nm. Reversible dissociation of the tetrameric aggregate in 3.2 m urea is accompanied by the loss of the 320 nm emission band and the appearance of a band at 305 nm due to tyrosine and one at 345 nm characteristic of tryptophan in aqueous solution. Shifts in the ultraviolet absorption spectrum also accompany dissociation into subunits. The rate of dissociation was monitored by the absorption and emission properties. The rate was found to be independent of enzyme concentration and is roughly dependent on the twelfth power of the urea concentration. Enhancement of the rate of dissociation by alcohols was related to the length of the alkyl chain. The tetramer is rapidly and irreversibly dissociated by 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate into monomeric subunits. Changes in the emission and absorption spectra indicate that detergent binds in the vicinity of tyrosyl and tryptophyl residues.
An energy efficient framework for mobile target tracking in sensor networks

Most existing work on sensor networks concentrates on finding efficient ways to forward data from the information source to the data center, and not much work has been done on collecting local data and generating the data report. This paper studies this issue by proposing techniques to track a mobile target and monitor its surrounding region. We introduce a framework called dynamic convoy tree-based collaboration (DCTC), and formalize it as a multiple objective optimization problem which needs to find a convoy tree sequence with high tree coverage and low message complexity. We propose an optimal solution which achieves 100% coverage and minimizes the message complexity under certain ideal situations. Considering the real constraints of sensor networks, we propose two practical solutions: the conservative scheme and the prediction-based scheme. Extensive simulations are conducted to compare these schemes, and the results show that the prediction-based scheme outperforms the conservative scheme, and it can achieve a relatively high coverage and low message complexity close to the optimal scheme.
Fabrication and Performance of a Lithium X-Ray Lens

Compound refractive lenses (CRLs) are arrays of concave lenses whose simple design and ease in implementation and alignment make them an attractive optic to focus x‐rays. Factors considered in designing CRLs include lens material, fabrication, and assembly. Lithium is a desirable material because it provides the largest index of refraction decrement per unit absorption length of any solid elements. Lithium is a difficult material to handle and fabricate because it is rather malleable and more importantly, it reacts with moisture, and to a lesser extent, with oxygen and nitrogen in air. It also tends to adhere to molds and dies.We report on the fabrication and performance of a parabolic lithium lens consisting of 32 lenslets. Lenslets are fabricated in a precision press using an indenter with a parabolic profile and a 100 μm tip radius. The indenter is made of stainless steel and is figured using a computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine. The lens is designed to have a 1.7 m focal length at 10 keV en...
Crystallization of ammonium nitrate from nonaqueous solvents

Although ammonium nitrate is at best sparingly soluble in typical organic solvents, it may be readily solubilized through the addition of chelating agents such as crown ethers and polyethylene glycols. With suitable choice of solvent and chelating agent, addition of a precipitating solvent leads to the crystallization of uncomplexed ammonium nitrate from such solutions. Crystalline ammonium nitrate obtained through this process of “complexation-mediated crystallization” displays a variety of morphologies, with the crystal form dependent on the nature of both the solvent and the chelating agent.
Do Students Want Web 2.0? An Investigation into Student Instructional Preferences

The critical literature abounds with examples of possible educational uses of Web 2.0 technology in which students become active participants in the production of knowledge through blogging, social networking, creation of podcasts, and other forms of constructivist education. At the same time, teachers, whom the data indicate are somewhat apprehensive to utilize Web 2.0 in their classrooms, are starting to integrate eLearning into their curriculum more and more often, recognizing the pedagogical implications of the new technology. However, though millennial students (those aged 18–33) are connected to social networks and are aware of many Web 2.0 applications, the data from a survey of 1,847 millennial-aged students at the University of California, Riverside paint a more complicated picture. This study is an explication of a survey that was administered in December of 2010 to three levels of developmental writing students at UC Riverside. The data indicate—despite ESL or EFL language backgrounds or class ...
A small library of synthetic di-substituted 1, 4-naphthoquinones induces ROS-mediated cell death in murine fibroblasts.

Synthesis of compound libraries and their concurrent assessment as selective reagents for probing and modulating biological function continues to be an active area of chemical biology. Microwave-assisted solid-phase Dotz benzannulation reactions have been used to inexpensively synthesize 2, 3-disubstituted-1, 4-naphthoquinone derivatives. Herein, we report the biological testing of a small library of such compounds using a murine fibroblast cell line (L929). Assessment of cellular viability identified three categories of cytotoxic compounds: no toxicity, low/intermediate toxicity and high toxicity. Increased levels of Annexin-V-positive staining and of caspase 3 activity confirmed that low, intermediate, and highly toxic compounds promote cell death. The compounds varied in their ability to induce mitochondrial depolarization and formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Both cytotoxic and non-cytotoxic compounds triggered mitochondrial depolarization, while one highly cytotoxic compound did not. In addition, all cytotoxic compounds promoted increased intracellular ROS but the cells were only partially protected from compound-induced apoptosis when in the presence of superoxide dismutase, catalase, or ascorbic acid suggesting utilization of additional pro-death mechanisms. In summary, nine of twelve (75%) 1, 4-naphthoquinone synthetic compounds were cytotoxic. Although the mitochondria did not appear to be a central target for induction of cell death, all of the cytotoxic compounds induced ROS formation. Thus, the data demonstrate that the synthesis regime effectively created cytotoxic compounds highlighting the potential use of the regime and its products for the identification of biologically relevant reagents.
Confocal laser scanning microscopy reveals voltage‐gated calcium signals within hippocampal dendritic spines

The induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) is generally assumed to be triggered by Ca2+ entry into dendritic spines via NMDA receptor-gated channels. A previous computational model proposed that spines serve several functions in this process. First, they compartmentalize and amplify increases in [Ca2+]i. Second, they augment the nonlinear relationship between synaptic strength and the probability or magnitude of LTP induction. Third, they isolate the metabolic machinery responsible for LTP induction from increases in [Ca2+]i produced by voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the dendritic shaft. Here we examine this last prediction of the model using methods that combine confocal microscopy with simultaneous neurophysiological recordings in hippocampal brain slices. Either of two Ca2+-sensitive dyes were injected into CA1 pyramidal neurons. Direct depolarization of the neurons via the somatic electrode produced clear increases in Ca2+ signals within the dendritic spines, a result that was not predicted by the previous spine model. Our new spine model suggests that some of this signal could theoretically result from Ca2+-bound dye diffusing from the dendritic shaft into the spine. Dye diffusion alone cannot, however, explain the numerous cases in which the Ca2+ signal in the spine was considerably larger than that in the adjacent dendritic shaft. The latter observations raise the possiblity of voltage-gated Ca2+ entry directly into the spine or else perhaps via Ca2+-dependent Ca2+release. The new spine model accommodates these observations as well as several other recent experimental results. 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Recent advances in the application of X-ray computed tomography in the analysis of heap leaching systems

Abstract Heap leaching technology is moving forward rapidly as it satisfies most techno-economic considerations and provides several benefits such as low cost, cleaner environment and product, flexibility, and diversified process conditions. Factors such as proper feed preparation, adequate mineralogical analysis, implementation of eco-comminution, and the precise use of characterization tools should be undertaken in order to provide for a successful heap leach process. In view of the important role of comminution and agglomeration in heap leaching systems, both of which have to do with particle size distribution (PSD), improved characterization methods have become of significance in the design and operation of heap leaching systems. An increase in fundamental understanding using advanced characterization tools such as X-ray computed tomography (CT) will make heap leach technology even more adaptable to ever-increasing complex ores in the foreseeable future. High pressure grinding rolls (HPGRs) may become more popular in heap leach operations since they offer several advantages over conventional crushing technologies such as lower energy consumption and increased particle damage. The potential applications of X-ray CT to heap leaching technology and future directions are reported.
Agar-gel and acrylamide-disc electrophoresis of coral snake venoms.

Coral snake venoms from thirteen species and subspecies of the genus Micrurus and one subspecies of Micruroides were characterized by Lowry protein analysis, agar-gel electrophoresis and acrylamide-disc electrophoresis. Electrophoretic patterns were presented and the application of these techniques as aids in taxonomy and establishing purity of venom was discussed.
EFFECT OF ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION ON HYPERPROLACTINAEMIA IN URAEMIC MEN

Zinc and prolactin levels were measured in 32 male haemodialysis patients; 12 were receiving 50 mg zinc per day as zinc acetate and 20 were not. Zinc-treated patients had significantly higher plasma zinc levels (134 +/- 10 micrograms/dl v 88 +/- 2 micrograms/dl) and lower serum prolactin levels (11 +/- 4 ng/ml v 29 +/- 7 ng/ml) than untreated patients. Plasma zinc and serum prolactin were inversely related in zinc-treated and untreated patients (r = -0.79, p less than 0.001).
Interventional cardiology in 2012: We are 'shocked', 'frozen', and 'freed' by new data

In 2012, results from three studies in interventional cardiology have enhanced our knowledge on the best practices to improve clinical outcomes. These trials were focused on treatment safety as well as efficacy. The optimal therapeutic strategy for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention continues to evolve.
Optimal Nonlinear Estimation of Linear Stochastic Systems: The Multivariable Extension

This paper extends to multi-input multi-output (MIMO) systems a nonlinear method of simultaneous parameter and state estimation that appeared in the ASME JDSMC nor about relative degree, except that the system transfer functions must be strictly proper. In the earlier paper, proofs of optimality and convergence were given. Extensions of those proofs to the MIMO case are also given here.
An automatic add-subtract mode switch for use with response averagers

Summary A prototype of a mode switch for automatically programming a summing computer into “add” and “subtract” modes of operation on electrical command is described. The instrument occupies little space and is relatively inexpensive. In addition to providing add-subtract programming, the unit also is capable of short-circuiting the input to a computer channel so that reference response to a single stimulus can be obtained. Manual operation of the “add” and “subtract” computer functions remains unhampered.
Validation of the BIACORE 3000 platform for detection of antibodies against erythropoietic agents in human serum samples

Objective: To develop a validated BIACORE immunoassay for the detection and characterization of serum antibodies with specificity for erythropoietic molecules (e.g. darbepoetin alfa).Methods: New Z...
Strength of Hot‐Pressed Silicon Nitride After High‐Temperature Exposure

L'exposition a court terme de Si 3 N 4 a des temperatures superieures a 800°C dans une atmosphere oxydante accroit la resistance mecanique a temperature ambiante et elimine la distribution de resistance tronquee provoquee par l'essai a temperature ambiante. L'attaque acide des echantillons testes retablit la distribution tronquee originelle. On montre que ces modifications de la resistance sont liees a la formation d'une phase vitreuse superficielle qui aplanit les defauts d'usinage preexistants. Une oxydation poussee a plus long terme produit des piqures superficielles qui conduisent a une modification irreversible de la resistance
Exposure to Low-Dose Trichloroethylene Alters Shear Stress Gene Expression and Function in the Developing Chick Heart

Trichloroethylene is an organic solvent used as an industrial degreasing agent. Due to its widespread use and volatile nature, TCE is a common environmental contaminant. Trichloroethylene exposure has been implicated in the etiology of heart defects in human populations and animal models. Recent data suggest misregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in H9c2 cardiomyocyte cell line after TCE exposure. We hypothesized that misregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis alters myocyte function and leads to changes in embryonic blood flow. In turn, changes in cardiac flow are known to cause cardiac malformations. To investigate this hypothesis, we dosed developing chick embryos in ovo with environmentally relevant doses of TCE (8 and 800 ppb). RNA was isolated from control and treated embryos at specific times in development for real-time PCR analysis of blood flow markers. Effects were observed on Endothelin-1 (ET-1), Nitric Oxide Synthase-3 (NOS-3) and Kruppel-like Factor 2 (KLF2) expression relative to TCE exposure and consistent with reduced flow. Further, we measured function in the developing heart after TCE exposure by isolating cardiomyocytes and measuring half-width of contraction and sarcomere lengths. These functional data showed a significant increase in half-width of contraction after TCE exposure. These data suggest that perturbation of cardiac function contributes to the etiology of congenital heart defects in TCE-exposed embryos.
Mutations associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis convert superoxide dismutase from an antiapoptotic gene to a proapoptotic gene: studies in yeast and neural cells.

Abstract Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) is associated with mutations in SOD1, the gene encoding copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD). However, the mechanism by which these mutations lead to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is unknown. We report that FALS mutant SODs expressed in yeast lacking CuZnSOD are enzymatically active and restore the yeast to the wild-type phenotype. In mammalian neural cells, the overexpression of wild-type SOD1 inhibits apoptosis induced by serum and growth factor withdrawal or calcium ionophore. In contrast, FALS-associated SOD1 mutants promote, rather than inhibit, neural apoptosis, in a dominant fashion, despite the fact that these mutants retain enzymatic SOD activity both in yeast and in mammalian neural cells. The results dissociate the SOD activity of FALS-associated mutants from the induction of neural cell death, suggesting that FALS associated with mutations in SOD1 may not be simply the result of a decrease in the enzymatic function of CuZnSOD. Furthermore, the results provide an in vitro model that may help to define the mechanism by which FALS-associated SOD1 mutations lead to neural cell death.
The world in 2010: the all fibre scenario

Creates a future history of the evolution of the US telecommunications network infrastructure, by combining a scenario approach with the tool of concept mapping to explain how optical fibre technologies became the dominant technologies in that infrastructure.
Review of: “ TIME ”: Towards a Consistent Theory, by C.K. Raju. Kluwer, Dordrecht (The Netherlands) and Norwell (Mass.), 1994. xi + 259 pages, ISBN 0-7923-3103-6.

(1999). Review of: “ TIME ”: Towards a Consistent Theory, by C.K. Raju. Kluwer, Dordrecht (The Netherlands) and Norwell (Mass.), 1994. xi + 259 pages, ISBN 0-7923-3103-6. International Journal of General Systems: Vol. 27, No. 4-5, pp. 427-428.
Photochemistry of flavoprotein light sensors.

Exposure to blue light promotes changes in the protein conformation of flavin photosensors. A review of recent advances in these light sensors discusses key questions in the field and their application to engineer light-mediated molecular switches.
Enduring Land-Use Planning Lessons from the 1971 San Fernando Earthquake

Abstract Recommendations contained in the report of the Joint Committee on Seismic Safety of the California Legislature on the 1971 San Fernando Earthquake serve as a basis for reviewing progress in reducing seismic hazards through land use planning in California during the last twenty‐five years. Progress since 1971 in the use of normal planning tools to increase seismic safety is summarized. Finally, as a statement of remaining needs, recommendations for improvement of land use planning at state and local levels, as contained in the California Seismic Safety Commission's report on the Northridge Earthquake, are presented.
Critical-point universality in adsorption: the effect of charcoal on a mixture of isobutyric acid and water near the consolute point.

The mixture of isobutyric acid and water has a consolute point at a temperature of 25.75 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C and mole fraction 0.1148 isobutyric acid. When charcoal is added to this mixture, the concentration of isobutyric acid is reduced by adsorption. We have measured the action of charcoal on solutions of isobutyric acid and water as a function of isobutyric acid mole fraction at temperatures of 25.85 and 32.50 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. At the higher temperature, the specific adsorption density $({y}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/m)$ satisfies the Freundlich equation $({y}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/m)={\mathit{KX}}_{2}^{1/n}$, where ${y}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$ is the mass of isobutyric acid adsorbed, $m$ is the mass of charcoal, ${X}_{2}$ is the equilibrium mole fraction of isobutyric acid, $n$ is the Freundlich index, and $K=K(T)$ is an amplitude that depends upon the temperature $T$. At 25.85 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, a critical endpoint is located at an isobutyric acid mole fraction ${X}_{2}^{\mathit{ce}}=0.09$. When compared with the Freundlich equation at this temperature, a plot of the specific adsorption density as a function of ${X}_{2}$ in the vicinity of the critical-endpoint composition assumes a shape which is reminiscent of the derivative of a Dirac delta function. Using critical-point scaling theory, we show that this divergent pattern is consistent with the principle of critical point universality.
Rogadius fehlmanni, a new flathead fish (Scorpaeniformes: Platycephalidae) from Somalia

Abstract Three species of Rogadius Jordan & Richardson, 1908, with antrorse preopercular spines have been previously known from the western Indian Ocean (WIO). A new species, Rogadius fehlmanni, is described from eight specimens taken at three localities off Somalia. It is distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: lower edge of preopercle developed as a stout antrorse spine; preocular spines 2–4, usually with accessory spines on base of the largest; 5–6 diagonal scale rows between second dorsal fin and lateral line; pelvic fins blackish, lacking individual dark spots. A key separating the four species is provided.
Intracellular concentrations and the efflux kinetics of sodium and calcium from frog skeletal muscles.

Abstract 1. 1. Two interpretations of the relations between intracellular Na + concentration and efflux have been given; that efflux is a function of a power of the cellular concentration or that it is an exponential function of the cellular concentration. 2. 2. The power function seems to fit data for 24 Na and for 45 Ca efflux from frog rectus and sartorius muscles. 3. 3. We suggest that the efflux kinetics come about because a fraction of the Na + and Ca 2+ are bound in the cells and are not in free solution.
Recent Conclusions Regarding the Structures of a Number of Small Molecules: A Rebuttal

Abstract A number of papers of K. Hamada and H. Morishita have appeared in this journal which have proposed novel structures for a range of organic compounds. These authors concluded that the linkages C-C-C, C-N-C, C-CO-C, C-C-X, C-Y-C and C-Y-Y-C, where X=C1, Br and I and Y=O, S, Se and Te, are all linear, whereas it has previously been held that these linkages are bent in nature. It is shown herein that these conclusions were based on poor quality data, and that no account was taken of previous experimental data from which detailed molecular structures have been calculated with a high level of confidence. Thus the conclusions of Hamada and Morishita are untenable and should be disregarded.
Corrugated plasmonic structures for biomedical applications

In this work we developed new type of biosensors based on nanolayered metal-dielectric structure. It was found that using the combination of nano-size (from 15 to 25 nm) layers of gold and dielectric support a new type of plasmon modes: bulk plasmon-polariton (BPP). In this work the role of corrugation for different nano-layers has been investigated. Thus, it was found that even corrugation of one 25 nm nano-layer results in effective coupling of BPP modes. The coupling efficiency as a function of corrugation depth, corrugation profile has been investigated. Diffraction gratings were fabricated by hot embossing technology.
Abstract C250: The pericyte as a novel stromal element and therapeutic target in sarcoma

Background: Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have been proposed as the cell of origin of sarcoma. In soft tissues, the microvascular pericyte has been recently shown to have MSC properties (Crisan et al, Cell Stem Cell 3:301). We have previously reported the isolation of benign mesenchymal cultures from sarcoma surgical samples. These cells have the immunophenotype (CD45‐CD31‐ CD73+CD105+CD90+) and in vitro differentiation potential characteristic of MSCs. We hypothesized that these sarcoma‐associated MSCs (SA‐MSCs) are derived from pericytes associated with the sarcoma vasculature. Methods: We examined whether benign SA‐MSCs have surface markers characteristic of pericytes and cooperate with endothelial cells in tube formation assays. We also examined expression of CD146, a pericyte marker, and CD105, an MSC marker, in sarcoma archived tissue by IHC. Results: Benign SA‐MSCs indeed demonstrated properties of pericytes, such as characteristic cytoplasmic projections at low density, surface expression of pericyte markers (CD146, PDGFR‐beta, NG2 and endosialin) and cooperation with endothelial cells in tube formation assays in matrigel. To demonstrate the existence of pericytes in sarcoma archived tissue, we used CD146 that has been shown to be restricted to the vasculature in sarcoma, but thought to be an endothelial marker (Shih et al, CCR 2:569). We demonstrate for the first time the existence of CD146+ pericytes in diverse sarcoma subtypes. In addition, we examined sarcoma archived material for expression of CD105 (endoglin), an MSC marker and a known tumor‐specific endothelial marker in carcinoma. We found that CD105 was expressed in sarcoma endothelium similarly to its expression on carcinoma endothelium. In addition, by three‐color immunofluorescence, CD105 was expressed in a subset of sarcoma pericytes. It was not expressed in normal surrounding tissues. Conclusion: We show that SA‐MSC cultures have properties of pericytes. Using a novel combination of markers we demonstrate that pericytes are abundant in sarcoma. Being in contact with both the endothelial cells and the malignant sarcoma cells, pericytes represent a novel stromal element in sarcoma and a potential therapeutic target. Based on these findings we are evaluating endosialin (CD248) and CD105 antibodies, both of which are in clinical development, for effectiveness in preclinical models of sarcoma. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):C250.
Immunoglobulin M determinations in neonates and infants as an adjunct to the diagnosis of infection.

Immunoglobulin gamma-M levels and C-reactive protein were studied in 613 neonates and infants. A high correlation between high IgM levels and infection was found. However, C-reactive protein was not found to be of value as a parameter of infection. Cord blood did not contain C-reactive protein, while IgM levels among healthy newborns were normal. Both typical and atypical sudden death cases yielded high IgM levels, but the results were inconclusive because of the small number of cases tested. Determination of IgM levels by a simple radial diffusion method is recommended, provided specific reference standard sera is used with commercially prepared immunoglobulin plates.
A nuclear magnetic resonance study of decomposition in neutron-irradiated LiF

Abstract The decomposition of LiF produced by neutron irradiation in a reactor has been studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. Several sets of crystals and powdered samples have been irradiated at a variety of temperatures for total neutron doses between 1015 and 2 × 1019 n/cm2. In several cases the temperature of the sample during irradiation has been measured by means of thermocouples. The temperature of a sample during the irradiation usually lies in the region of 120 to 300°C. After irradiation, distinctive lines were found superimposed upon the characteristic NMR spectrum of LiF. Through a detailed study of their properties, the additional lines have been shown to be due to F19 nuclei in a molecular fluorine phase probably trapped in small cavities in the crystals, and to Li7 nuclei in a metallic lithium phase. The concentration of molecular fluorine in the samples has been found to increase with dose when the specimen temperature during irradiation (Ts) does not rise above approximately 300°C, reaching an ultimate concentration of from one to two percent of all fluorine in the sample at doses above 1018 n/cm2. However, the concentration is a strong function of Ts, if Ts, is near or above 300°C. The concentration of lithium metal observable by NMR may be even more sensitive to Ts. No mass loss due to escape of fluorine is observed when Ts, is kept below 300°C. Disagreements between measurements of lattice expansion in neutron-irradiated LiF by X-ray and density studies may arise from the heterogeneous nature of the damage; conflicting results from measurements of linear expansion and density (on different specimens) may arise from different values of Ts.
Novel binding and efficient cellular uptake of guanidine-based peptide nucleic acids (GPNA).

Incorporation of a guanidine functional group into the PNA backbone facilitates cellular uptake of PNA into mammalian cells with efficiency comparable to that of the TAT transduction domain. The modified PNA recognizes and binds to the complementary DNA strand in accordance with Watson−Crick recognition rules. However, unlike polypyrimidine PNA which binds to DNA in 2:1 stoichiometry, the modified PNA binds to complementary DNA in a 1:1 ratio to form a highly stable duplex.
Dynamic Imaging of the Respiratory Cycle with 81mKr

To define the regional ventilation of the human lung, subjects were monitored with a gamma camera, while breathing air labeled with radioactive 81m Kr which is being continuously eluted from a generator. The information observed is displayed as a reiterated multiframe moving picture. This is accomplished by storing the information from multiple breaths, selecting acceptable cycles (determined by the duration of inspiration and expiration and the amplitude of extremes of the cycle), and normalizing the usable information and converting the summed data into sequential frames, which are repeatedly shown on a video screen from computer memory.
CW all-Optical Quadruple Resonance Spectroscopy and Transition Dipole Measurements of Sodium Dimer

We report CW all-optical quadruple resonance excitation experiment with all excitations steps driven coherently by a combination of four tunable lasers. This excitation technique is very general allowing access to transitions at large internuclear distance.
Feature Article: Cajal–Retzius Cell Physiology: Just in Time to Bridge the 20th Century

Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells were discovered at the end of the 19th century but, surprisingly, the exploration of their physiological properties is only now beginning, as we near the end of the 20th century. A few papers addressing these properties have appeared recently, but incomplete data generally give the arguably misleading impression that CR cells are similar to other neocortical neurons, and therefore may perform analogous functions. It is one of the motives of this review to dispel such conceptions. Although CR cells display features of 'regular' neurons, including excitability and responsiveness to neurotransmitters, their function is probably limited to the primary implementation of cortical circuits. A strong indication in support of this idea is the fact that CR cells appear at the onset of neocorticogenesis and disappear at the end of neuronal migration.
Insulin stimulates thyroid hormone receptor α gene expression in cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells

Abstract Thyroid hormones and insulin regulate numerous cell processes and potentially interact through the transcriptional regulation of key genes. For instance, thyroid hormones stimulate the transcription of the fatty acid synthase and malic enzyme genes in chick embryonic hepatocytes, while insulin amplifies these effects. It is possible that insulin augments these actions of thyroid hormone by stimulating production of the thyroid hormone nuclear receptor (TR). In these studies, we examined the regulation of TR production/gene expression by insulin in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC). We demonstrate that insulin significantly stimulates the gene expression of the TRα receptor, from BAEC. Insulin causes a maximal threefold induction above control TRα steady state mRNA levels in time and dose-related fashion in these cells. The increased mRNA mainly resulted from a twofold increase in transcription, as determined by nuclear run on. Insulin also increases thyroid receptor number and thyroid hormone binding, determined by Scatchard analysis of competitive inhibition binding studies. An established observation is that insulin can synergistically augment thyroid hormone-induced transcriptional activation of several important genes. It has also been previously determined that thyroid hormone action correlates closely to TR nuclear receptor number. Therefore, our studies, which show that insulin stimulates TRa production, suggests a potential mechanism whereby insulin can augment thyroid hormone transcriptional action.
Effects of undernutrition on development of far-field auditory brain stem responses in rat pups

Abstract Timed-pregnancy Sprague-Dawley rats were placed on special diets on day 15 of their pregnancy. One group received a normal, 24% protein diet, and the second a deficient, 8% protein diet. After birth the litters within each group were cross-fostered, thinned to 8 pups each, and maintained on their respective diets. Beginning with postnatal day 16 the ABR (auditory brain stem response) was repeatedly recorded from the pups until day 43. Undernourished rat pup body weights were less than one-third of those of the well-nourished litters at the conclusion of testing. ABRs taken from the undernourished group were significantly delayed in early development compared with the controls, but the differences decreased with age despite continuation of a deficient diet. A second experiment was run to rule out body temperature differences between the two groups and showed that the ABR effect was not solely due to this variable. These results indicate that undernourishment is one of the factors that can effect the rate of maturation of the ABR.
What is Really Good for Long-Term Growth? Lessons from a Binary Classification Tree (BCT) Approach

Although the economic growth literature has come a long way since the Solow-Swan model of the fifties, there is still considerable debate on the real' or deep determinants of growth. This paper revisits the question of what is really important for strong long-term growth by using a Binary Classification Tree approach, a nonparametric statistical technique that is not commonly used in the growth literature. A key strength of the method is that it recognizes that a combination of conditions can be instrumental in leading to a particular outcome, in this case strong growth. The paper finds that strong growth is a result of a complex set of interacting factors, rather than a particular set of variables such as institutions or geography, as is often cited in the literature. In particular, geographical luck and a favorable external environment, combined with trade openness and strong human capital are conducive to growth.