cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Case Study in Low Aerosol Number Concentrations over the Eastern North Atlantic: Implications for Pristine Conditions in the Remote Marine Boundary Layer

We present a case study (September 20 – October 13, 2015) of synergistic, multi-instrument observations of aerosols, clouds and the marine boundary layer (MBL) at the Eastern North Atlantic (ENA) ARM site centered on a period of exceptionally low (20 – 50 cm-3) surface accumulation mode (0.1 – 1 μm) aerosol particle number concentrations. We divide the case study into three regimes (high, clean and ultra-clean) based on daily median number concentrations, and compare finer resolution (hourly or less) observations between these regimes. The analysis focuses on the possibility of using these ultra-clean events to study pristine conditions in the remote MBL, as well as examining evidence for a recently proposed conceptual model for the large-scale depletion of CCN-sized particles in post-frontal air masses. Relative to the high and clean regimes, the ultra-clean regime tends to exhibit significantly fewer particles between 0.1 and 0.4 μm in diameter and a relatively increased prevalence of larger accumulation mode particles. In addition, supermicron particles tend to dominate total scattering in the ultra-clean regime, and there is little evidence for absorbing aerosol. These observations are more in line with a heavily scavenged but natural marine aerosol population and minimal contribution from continental sources such as anthropogenic pollution, biomass burning or dust. The air masses with the consistently lowest accumulation mode aerosol number concentrations are largely dominated by heavily drizzling clouds with high liquid water path (LWP) cores, deep decoupled boundary layers, open cellular organization and notable surface forcing of sub-cloud turbulence, even at night.
Sudden death in schizophrenia.

Purpose of review To examine the recent literature regarding sudden death in patients with schizophrenia and synthesize salient conclusions based on this evidence. Recent findings Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the largest subset of sudden unexpected death (SUD), with up to 40% of SUD from cardiovascular causes. SCD has been associated with exposure to both first and second-generation antipsychotics. Clozapine [odds ratio (OR) 3.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.94-6.94] confers the highest risk of SCD followed by risperidone (OR 3.04, 95% CI 2.39-3.86) then olanzapine (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.52-2.74). SCD not associated with antipsychotic use has been correlated to several modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors - obesity, smoking, dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, age, sex, and history of cardiovascular disease. Other subsets of SUD include hematological and pulmonary causes, including agranulocytosis leading to sepsis, deep vein thrombosis leading to pulmonary embolisms, and aspiration pneumonia leading to sepsis. Summary There is a huge paucity in genetic and pharmacogenetic data focused on SUD in schizophrenia. Future studies should emphasize the genetic aspects as well as clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms of these pathways. Additionally, early detection of those patients at high risk for SUD and discovery of preventive measures should also be emphasized.
Determination of novel members in the Drosophila melanogaster anteriorposterior patterning system using natural variation

The anterior-posterior axis of the developing Drosophila melanogaster embryo is patterned by a well-studied gene regulatory network called the Gap Gene Network. This network acts to buffer the developing pattern against noise, thereby minimizing errors in gene expression and preventing patterning defects. In this paper, we sought to discover novel regulatory regions and transcription factors acting in a subset of the Gap network using a selection of wild-caught fly lines derived from the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP). The fly lines in the DGRP contain subtle genomic differences due to natural variation; we quantified the differences in positioning of gene expression borders of two anterior-poster patterning genes, Kruppel (Kr) and Even-skipped in 13 of the DGRP lines. The differences in the positions of Kruppel and Even-skipped were then correlated to specific single nucleotide polymorphisms and insertions/deletions within the select fly lines. Putative enhancers containing these genomic differences were validated for their ability to produce expression using reporter constructs and analyzed for possible transcription factor binding sites. The identified transcription factors were then perturbed and the resulting Eve and Kr positioning was determined. In this way, we found medea, ultraspiracle, glial cells missing, and orthopedia effect Kr and Eve positioning in subtle ways, while knock-down of pangolin produces significant shifts in Kr and subsequent Eve expression patterns. Most importantly this study points to the existence of many additional novel members that have subtle effects on this system and the degree of complexity that is present in patterning the developing embryo.
Fibre Optical Sensors

The state-of-the-art of optical fibre sensors is reviewed and the principals of operation are detailed. The characteristics of acoustic, magnetic, gyro, laser diode and other sensors are described. Achievable performance and limitations are discussed and a description of technology used to fabricate the sensor is presented.
CHAPTER 34 – CASE STUDY OF COMBINED GENE AND RADIATION THERAPY AS AN APPROACH IN THE TREATMENT OF CANCER

This chapter discusses the case study of combined gene and radiation therapy as an approach in the treatment of cancer. Combined gene therapy and radiation therapy is a novel approach in the armament against cancer. This radio/gene therapy combination may create a new spatial cooperation whereby two local treatment modalities, radiotherapy and in situ gene therapy, can lead to improved local and systemic control. Preclinical data have demonstrated the enhanced antitumor effects of this combined approach in local tumor control, prolongation of survival, and systemic control. This combined radio/gene therapy has now entered clinical phase in prostate cancer. The current approach adds a novel therapy to the standard-of-care therapy. These treatment modalities have very distinct spectra of toxicity profiles. This combined approach enhances the cancer cure without an increase in treatment-related toxicity. Early clinical results have shown the safety of this approach.
Amino Acid Regulation of hVps34 and mTORC1 Signaling

I. Abstract The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is believed to function as part of an ancient growth factor-, nutrient-, and energy-responsive signaling pathway. mTOR has been reported to reside in two distinct complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. Both complexes respond to hormones and growth factors, but only mTORC1 responds to nutrients and energy status. The central role of nutrients, especially branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), in regulating mTORC1 signaling has become increasingly evident over the last decade. In addition, there is increasing evidence that excess circulating AAs play a key role in the pathogenesis of obesity, insulin resistance, and, more recently, cancer. Hence, it has become imperative to elucidate the underlying mechanism(s) by which AAs induce mTORC1 activation. In the last few years, a number of studies have identified novel proteins involved in AA-mediated regulation of mTORC1, including class 3 phosphatidyl-inositide-3OH-kinase (PI3K), or human vacuolar protein sorting 34 (hVps34); mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase kinase 3 (MAP4K3); and the small GTPases termed Ras-related GTP-binding (RAG) proteins. In this chapter, we will briefly touch on the roles of MAP4K3 and the Rags, and focus mainly on a discussion of the role of hVps34 in AA-mediated regulation of TORC1 signaling. Recently, it has been shown that AAs regulate hVps34 activity through an increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca 2+ ] i ). AA-induced increases in [Ca 2+ ] i promote calmodulin (CaM) binding to the conserved CaM-binding domain in hVps34, thus stimulating its lipid kinase activity, which leads to mTORC1 activation. Considering the fundamental importance of excessive nutrient intake in the development of obesity, insulin resistance, and cancer, these findings have the potential to contribute to the development of new intervention therapies to effectively control and treat these metabolic disorders.
Efficient and High Fidelity DSRC Simulation

Connected vehicle applications rely on Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC) technology for exchange of critical safety and efficiency information. The performance of underlying DSRC network greatly impacts how the applications perform. However, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to evaluate application performance under different DSRC communication conditions and in particular at large scale. As a result, researchers resort to simulation of DSRC networks for the purpose of determining possible issues that may exist for application performance. In this chapter we describe how connected vehicle applications can be simulated, with an emphasis on high fidelity but efficient simulation of underlying DSRC networks. Different approaches to simulation of DSRC are summarized and the sub-frame based method, which has widespread use, is discussed in detail. We present several enhancements to widely used discrete event simulators (such as ns-3) for the purpose of enabling sub-frame level simulation of DSRC. The resulting simulator is evaluated and shown to be accurate when comparing to results from field tests. In addition to sub-frame processing, which mostly concerns how wireless frames are processed in a node, the channel or propagation model is also discussed. The channel model stages and components are described and its use in the simulator is also explained.
Antimycobacterial Susceptibility Testing of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria.

ABSTRACT Recommendations for first-line and second-line drug testing and organism group, specific methodologies, and reporting recommendations have been addressed by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and are important in the selection of appropriate antimicrobial treatment regimens for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease. This review also includes recent information on new antimicrobials proposed for the treatment of NTM but not yet addressed by the CLSI and molecular (gene sequencing) methods associated with the detection of antimicrobial resistance of two major therapeutic antimicrobials, clarithromycin and amikacin.
Somatic Embryos and Plants from Cultured Protoplasts of Pennisetum Purpureum Schum. (Napier Grass)

Successful culture of protoplasts — which are naked single cells — leading to the regeneration of plants is a key requirement in most current strategies for the application of novel biotechnologies to the genetic modification and improvement of agriculturally important plants. The majority of the reports of plant regeneration from protoplasts are limited to members of the family Solanaceae (1), with potato being the only major crop species in which satisfactory success has been achieved.
MAVS regulates the quality of the antibody response to West-Nile Virus

A key difference that distinguishes viral infections from protein immunizations is the recognition of viral nucleic acids by cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Insights into the functions of cytosolic PRRs such as the RNA-sensing Rig-I-like receptors (RLRs) in the instruction of adaptive immunity are therefore critical to understand protective immunity to infections. West Nile virus (WNV) infection of mice deficent of RLR-signaling adaptor MAVS results in a defective adaptive immune response. While this finding suggests a role for RLRs in the instruction of adaptive immunity to WNV, it is difficult to interpret due to the high WNV viremia, associated exessive antigen loads, and pathology in the absence of a MAVS-dependent innate immune response. To overcome these limitations, we have infected MAVS-deficient (MAVSKO) mice with a single-round-of-infection mutant of West Nile virus. We show that MAVSKO mice failed to produce an effective neutralizing antibody response to WNV despite normal antibody titers against the viral WNV-E protein. This defect occurred independently of antigen loads or overt pathology. The specificity of the antibody response in infected MAVSKO mice remained unchanged and was still dominated by antibodies that bound the neutralizing lateral ridge (LR) epitope in the DIII domain of WNV-E. Instead, MAVSKO mice produced IgM antibodies, the dominant isotype controlling primary WNV infection, with lower affinity for the DIII domain. Our findings suggest that RLR-dependent signals are important for the quality of the humoral immune response to WNV.
Hematologic evaluation of intraoperative autologous blood collection and allogeneic transfusion in cardiac surgery.

Background Acute normovolemic hemodilution is recommended as a technique to reduce allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in cardiac surgery, but its efficacy to reduce non-RBC transfusion has not been consistently demonstrated. We hypothesized that intraoperative large-volume autologous whole blood (AWB) collection and reinfusion improves viscoelastic coagulation parameters. Study design and methods Prospective observational study of cardiac surgery patients at the University of Maryland Medical Center between December 2017 and August 2019. Rotational thromboelastometry parameters were compared between AWB and control groups (n = 25 in each group) at three time points: T1, baseline; T2, on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) after the cross-clamp removal; and T3, 30-60 minutes after protamine administration. The study's primary outcomes were whole blood viscoelastic coagulation parameters that included EXTEM clotting time (CT), FIBTEM amplitude at 10 minutes, and EXTEM amplitude at 10 minutes (EXTEM-A10 ). Chest tube drainage and allogeneic transfusion were secondary outcomes. Results Reinfusion of AWB after CPB resulted in a significantly shorter EXTEM CT; mean difference, -11.4 seconds (-21.4 to -1.4; P = .03). It also resulted in a greater percentage increase in EXTEM A10 from T2 to T3; mean difference, 7.8% (95% CI, 1.1%-14.5%; P = .02). Statistical significance was not found in 24-hour chest tube drainage. Conclusion Large-volume AWB collection and reinfusion are feasible in selected cardiac surgical patients, and may be associated with prohemostatic effects according to thromboelastometry, warranting further investigation with a prospective randomized study.
NF-kB c-Rel is dispensable for the development but is required for the cytotoxic function of NK cells

Natural Killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes critical to the innate immune system. We found that germ-line deficiency of NF-kB c-Rel results in a marked decrease in cytotoxic function of NK cells, both in vitro and in vivo, with no significant differences in the stages of NK cell development. We found that c-Rel binds to the promoters of perforin and granzyme B, two key proteins required for NK cytotoxicity, and controls their transactivation. We generated a NK cell specific c-Rel conditional knockout to study NK cell intrinsic role of c-Rel and found that both global and conditional c-Rel deficiency leads to decreased perforin and granzyme B expression and thereby cytotoxic function. We also confirmed the role of c-Rel in perforin and granzyme B expression in human NK cells. c-Rel reconstitution rescued perforin and granzyme B expressions in c-Rel deficient NK cells and restored their cytotoxic function. Our results show a previously unknown role of c-Rel in transcriptional regulation of perforin and granzyme B expressions and control of NK cell cytotoxic function.
Accurate determination of the onset wavelength (λonset) in optical spectroscopy

Abstract Human attribution of absorption onset wavelength ( λ onset ) most often produces small, but non-negligible errors in the attribution of this value tied to the optical energy gap. The present work utilizes a free and freely available computer program (“0nset”) developed herein to determine the inflection point and subsequent x-intercept defining λ onset . The manually attributed absorption curve λ onset wavelengths are typically in error to the red (in 27 out of 38 attributions) for the dataset utilized in the present work when a rigorous manual analysis was performed implying a systematic human error. The raw ( − 2 nm) and absolute (3 nm) errors are relatively small, but there are exceptions when the errors are even larger than 20 nm. The numerically computed results from 0nset are independent of application bias and will reduce errors moving forward by consistently generating λ onset values from the same algorithm. Additionally, it will reduce errors in circumstances where the inflection points are difficult to isolate or in regions like the UV where ∼ 5–10 nm errors are more significant energetically. Finally, 0nset only requires .csv inputs and is built for both Windows and Unix-based operating systems making uptake and usage straightforward for experimental groups.
An Algorithmic Proof of the Lopsided Lovasz Local Lemma.

For any probability space and a collection of events with what we call a lopsided association graph, we give an algorithmic proof of the Lopsided Lovasz Local Lemma, and its stronger known forms. The only algorithmic assumption is the availability of a resampling oracle for each event. The resampling oracles act as an abstraction layer that isolates the details of the proof from the details of the probability space. The number of resamplings performed by the algorithm is bounded by expressions similar to those obtained by Moser and Tardos, and others. The overall computational efficiency depends on the runtime of the resampling oracles. We develop efficient resampling oracles for the known uses of the Lopsided Lovasz Local Lemma, unifying previous algorithmic applications and presenting new results for packings of Latin transversals, rainbow matchings and rainbow spanning trees.
Intramembrane Proteases--Mixing Oil and Water

The report that the newly characterized signal peptide peptidase is an aspartic protease that resembles presenilin ([ Weihofen et al .][1]) has generated excitement among Alzheimer's disease (AD) researchers. As [Wolfe and Selkoe][2] explain in their Perspective, the new work supplements existing evidence that presenilin (which is mutated in a rare familial form of AD) is an aspartic protease responsible for the intramembranous cleavage of many substrates, including the amyloid precursor protein. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/296/5576/2215 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/296/5576/2156
Pathogenicity and Effects of Prions Misfolding

Prions are proteins found naturally in the human body and also in other species. Prions are ubiquitous and have been found in everything from plant and mammal cells to single celled organisms such as the bacterium, Escerichia coli. The natural function of prions is largely unknown, however it is thought that they are involved in several functions such as cellular adhesion, protection, and cell signaling. The pathogenicity of prions stems from an altered pattern of folding of the protein.The altering event that triggers change is a single amino acid replacement which converts one of the alpha helices in the cellular prion protein into a beta sheet confirmation. This specific mutation induces the pathogenic isoform This isoform can interact with the normal celular versions of prion to convert them into the pathenogenic forms. This paper will look at prion diseases and how they affect the brain as well as what contributes to their pathogenicity and transmission.
Presidential Declarations of War

Most discussions of modern war powers under the U.S. Constitution assume that wars are no longer formally "declared." The United States, it is agreed, has declared war only five times in its history, the last being in World War II. But the commentary is deeply divided over how this observation affects the President's power to initiate the use of armed force and the President's powers during wartime. This article argues that these debates are fundamentally misconceived. Far from being a historical anachronism, declarations of war, in the constitutional sense, are commonplace in modern practice. The U.S. has made such a declaration in essentially all of its major modern conflicts. They have been made, however, not by the Congress, but by the President. Perhaps out of a sense of constitutional unease, we avoid actually calling them "declarations of war." But, as the article shows, the essence of a formal declaration of war has long been simply the public announcement of sustained military hostilities and a statement of the conflict's goals and reasons. This conclusion simplifies the modern debate over war power in three ways. First, the central question is whether the President can declare war (not whether the President can fight an "undeclared" war). Second, when Congress authorizes the President to use force, that can be understood constitutionally as delegating Congress' power to declare war to the President. Finally, debate over the President's wartime powers need not be further complicated by the objection that a "war" has not been "declared."
Proteolytic processing of big endothelin-3 by the kell blood group protein.

Kell blood group protein shares a consensus sequence (H.E.X.X.H) with a large family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases. Kell has closest homology with neutral endopeptidase 24.11, endothelin converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), and the PEX gene product that, as a group, comprise the M13 subfamily of mammalian neutral endopeptidases. The proteolytic activity of the M13 members, but not of Kell, has been previously demonstrated. A secreted form of wild-type Kell protein (s-Kell), devoid of the intracellular and transmembrane domains, was expressed in sf9 cells. As a negative control, an inactive mutant Kell protein (E582G) was expressed. As determined by N-terminal amino acid sequencing and mass spectrometry of the cleaved products, wild-type s-Kell, but not the control mutant protein, specifically cleaved big endothelin-3 (ET-3) at Trp21-Ile22, yielding ET-3, and, to a much lesser extent, also cleaved big ET-1 and big ET-2 at Trp21-Val22, yielding ET-1 and ET-2. Enzymatic activity was partially inhibited by phosphoramidon. s-Kell has an acidic pH optimum (pH 6.0 to 6.5). Like the recombinant protein, red blood cells of common Kell phenotype also preferentially process big ET-3, in contrast to Ko (null) cells that do not. These data demonstrate that the Kell blood group protein is a proteolytic enzyme that processes big ET-3, generating ET-3, a potent bioactive peptide with multiple biological roles.
Absence of half of the left diaphragm

Abstract A case of a two months' old baby with absence of half of the left diaphragm is reported. Satisfactory separation of the pleural cavity from the peritoneal cavity was established by suturing the edge of the posterior half of the diaphragm to the chest and abdominal walls.
The evolution of linearizers for high power amplifiers

Today, linearization is of enormous importance because of society's need for greater and greater amounts of information, and the economic and practical restrictions on the spectrum available for its transmission. Interest in reducing distortion is not new. It dates back to early years of radio. Information transmission rate is directly related to distortion level. Linearity and amplifier efficiency are also linked, with higher linearity normally yielding lower efficiency. Thus the development of technology to increase an amplifier's linearity as means to increase its efficiency is an important piece in the development of linearization. This paper traces the evolution of power amplifier linearization from its inception to the linearizers produced today. It reviews the different forms of linearization and then discusses the roots of modern linearization, which originated from applications in digital wireless communications, and from the needs of the space industry. The state of current linearizer development and limitations is also presented.
Muscle Action Pattern and Knee Extensor Strength of Older Tai Chi Exercisers

Background/Aims: Tai Chi (TC) practice has been shown to improve leg muscle strength among elders. This study examined the leg muscle action patterns during a typical TC movement, and their relation
Resonances in s-d shell nuclei

It appears that the system we have studied here, /sup 24/Mg(/sup 16/O,/sup 12/C)/sup 28/Si representing /sup 40/Ca as the composite nucleus, is perhaps the heaviest one that exhibits strong enough resonances that quantitative measurements may be contemplated. But we have uncovered only a small corner of what is there and even within this system a huge amount of work remains. The nature of these resonances is not yet clear. The sequence may perhaps have an explanation that is schematically outlined, namely that there are several families of quasistationary states in /sup 40/Ca, but that the slopes of these families do not necessarily coincide with the slope of the grazing partial waves that provide us with a narrow transparent strip of a window on the underlying structure of the nucleus. We must concentrate a lot of effort and ingenuity in order to maximize the information we gather through this window and only then may we hope to sensibly attempt forming hypotheses about the underlying simple pattern.
With man's best friend.

The relationship between man and dog is an ancient one. The dog has been man’s workmate, protector, guide, and companion. No one would question the merit of the long history of valuable service the dog has provided to man; it is the stuff of legend and literature. We even have evidence that a dog companion is good for our physical health (1). Occasionally, however, pathogens may be transmitted from dog to human beings resulting in problems ranging from a trivial rash to a life-threatening bacteremia. These infections are reviewed in this chapter.
Evaluating the impact of orbital sampling on satellite-climate model comparisons

[1] The effect of orbital sampling is one of the chief uncertainties in satellite–climate model comparisons. In the context of an ongoing activity to make satellite data more accessible for model evaluation (i.e., obs4MIPs), six variables (temperature, specific humidity, ozone, cloud water, cloud cover, and ocean surface wind) associated with six satellite instruments are evaluated for the orbital sampling effect. Comparisons are made between reanalysis and simulated satellite-sampled data in terms of bias and pattern similarity. It is found that the bias introduced by orbital sampling for long-term annual means, monthly climatologies, and monthly means is largely negligible, which is within ~3% of the standard deviation of the three quantities for most fields. The bias for 2-hPa temperature and specific humidity, while relatively large (9–10%), is within the estimated observational uncertainty. In terms of pattern similarity, cloud water and upper level specific humidity are the most sensitive to orbital sampling among the variables considered, with the magnitude of the sampling effect dependent on the spatial resolution—insignificant at 1.25° × 1.25° resolution for both. For all variables considered, orbital sampling effects are not an important consideration for model evaluation at 1.25° × 1.25° resolution. At 0.5° × 0.5°, orbital sampling is potentially important for cloud water and upper level specific humidity when evaluating model long-term annual means and monthly climatologies, and for cloud water when evaluating monthly means, all in terms of pattern similarities. Orbital sampling is not an important factor for evaluating zonal means in call cases considered.
p-/sup 4/He elastic scattering at 5. 75 GeV/c

A measurement of dsigma/dt between t = 0.18 and 2.2 (GeV/c)/sup 2/ has been made at a bombarding energy of 4.89 GeV. The shallow minimum observed between 0.4 and 2.68 GeV persists. The magnitude of dt/dt is intermediate between those measured at 2.68 GeV and at 23.1 GeV; dsigma/dt exhibits a change in slope near - t = 1.0 (GeV/c)/sup 2/, corresponding to the interference of double and triple scattering amplitudes.
Efficacy of Rituximab in Limited Wegener's Granulomatosis with Refractory Granulomatous Manifestations

Objective Patients with limited Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) may experience a relapsing and remitting course. How such patients should be treated, particularly when they are refractory to standard of care therapies, is not clear. Rituximab is a monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody that has been used successfully to treat multiple forms of autoimmune and rheumatic diseases, but its role in the treatment of limited WG remains uncertain. Methods Eight patients with limited WG who were refractory to (or intolerant of) standard immunosuppressive therapies were evaluated at the Johns Hopkins Hospital or the Mayo Clinic Rochester, and were treated with rituximab using a standard lymphoma protocol. Results Four men and 4 women with limited WG were treated with rituximab. Patients' mean age was 39 years. All patients had predominantly necrotizing granulomatous disease manifestations, including chronic sinusitis, pulmonary nodules, orbital pseudotumor, and subglottic stenosis. Patients had failed an average of 3 immunosuppressive agents, not including glucocorticoids. Six patients had failed (or were intolerant of) therapy with cyclophosphamide; all 8 had failed therapy with methotrexate. At the time of treatment, 3 of the 8 patients were antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-negative. Rituximab successfully induced disease remission in all 8 patients. Three patients were retreated preemptively with rituximab after return of peripheral blood B-cells. Five patients were successfully retreated with rituximab after disease flare. Conclusion Rituximab is an effective therapy for patients with limited WG and may be sufficient to induce sustained remission, even among patients with refractory disease and predominantly necrotizing granulomatous disease manifestations.
Accurate and rapid "multiplex heteroduplexing" method for genotyping key enzymes involved in folate/homocysteine metabolism.

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia, which is often associated with low folate status, is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and several other pathologies. The four most common functional polymorphisms in genes involved in folate/homocysteine metabolism are methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ( MTHFR ) C677T and A1298C, methionine synthase ( MS ) A2756G, and cystathionine β-synthase ( CBS ) 844ins68. The pathogenic impact of these variants is under active investigation in many laboratories. However, conventional genotyping methods, mostly using PCR followed by restriction enzyme digestion, often are compromised by partial fragment digestion. There is, therefore, a need to develop more reliable approaches to genotyping the above polymorphisms that may be applied in large-scale studies. Methods: Sequence-specific heteroduplex generators for each of the MTHFR and MS single nucleotide polymorphisms were generated by site-directed mutagenesis. These were subcloned into a single construct, p HcyHG-1 , which could be multiplexed with a simple PCR amplification across the CBS 844ins68 polymorphic site to generate composite genotype-specific banding patterns from individual genomic DNA samples that could be electrophoretically resolved. Results: The “multiplex heteroduplexing” method yielded unambiguous MTHFR , MS , and CBS genotypes in a single-tube reaction that could be analyzed in a single gel run. Conclusions: This method permits unambiguous genotyping of the four most common functional variants of enzymes involved in folate/homocysteine metabolism. It is rapid, reproducible, and inexpensive, and requires no special preparative or analytic facilities; consequently, it will facilitate large-scale studies of the genetic basis of hyperhomocysteinemia and the many pathologies that have been associated with this phenotype.
Age, Ethnicity, and Well-Being: A Comparative Study of Anglos, Blacks, and Mexican Americans

In this article we reexamine the issue of age differences in well-being, focusing on ethnic variations in this relationship. Data are from 1269 Los Angeles residents (407 Anglos, 413 blacks, and 449 Mexican Americans) between the ages of 45 and 74. Two measures of well-being were analyzed: Lawton's Philadelphia Geriatric Morale Scale and a single-item indicator of happiness. Results suggest that: (1) The overall relationship between age and well-being is strongly positive for Anglos, once controls are introduced for sex, marital status, income, health, and schooling; and (2) the slope of the relationship between age and well-being is similar for blacks and Anglos, but much smaller for Mexican Americans. Results suggest clear ethnic differences in the net advantage that advancing age offers to well-being. The relevance of the findings for the double-jeopardy hypothesis is discussed.
Neocalanus flemingeri, a new species of Calanidae (Copepoda: Calanoida) from the subarctic Pacific Ocean, with a comparative redescription of Neocalanus plumchrus (Marukawa) 1921

Abstract Copepodites of Neocalanus plumchrus dominate the macrozooplankton biomass of the subarctic Pacific during spring. Living specimens have patches of bright red-orange pigment. During May of 1984 it was found sharing dominance with another, related species with differently placed patches of more distinctly red pigment. This is an undescribed species, which is designated here as Neocalanus flemingeri sp. nov. In the Gulf of Alaska it is smaller than N. plumchrus , but in the Bering Sea where food supplies are greater it reaches dimensions as large or larger. The morphologies of the two species are distinct, and previous confusion in the taxonomy of these forms was caused by differences in their life histories.
Ordinal Judgments of Numerical Symbols by Macaques (Macaca Mulatta)

Two rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) learned that the arabic numerals 0 through 9 represented corresponding quantities of food pellets. By manipulating a joystick, the monkeys were able to make a selection of paired numerals presented on a computer screen. Although the monkeys received a corresponding number of pellets even if the lesser of the two numerals was selected, they learned generally to choose the numeral of greatest value even when pellet delivery was made arrhythmic. In subsequent tests, they chose the numerals of greater value when presented in novel combinations or in random arrays of up to five numerals. Thus, the monkeys made ordinal judgments of numerical symbols in accordance with their absolute or relative values.
Prevalence of seafood allergy in the United States determined by a random telephone survey

Abstract Background Seafood allergy is potentially severe, but the prevalence of this group of food allergies in the US population has not been determined. Objective To estimate the prevalence of seafood (fish, shellfish) allergy in the United States. Methods We performed a nationwide, cross-sectional, random telephone survey by using a standardized questionnaire. Criteria were established in advance to define seafood allergy by report of convincing symptoms and physician evaluation. Results A total of 5529 households completed the survey (67.3% participation rate), representing a census of 14,948 individuals. Fish or shellfish allergy defined by established criteria was reported in 5.9% (95% CI, 5.3%-6.6%) of households and among individuals as follows: 2.3% (95% CI, 2%-2.5%) for any seafood allergy, 2% for shellfish, 0.4% for fish, and 0.2% for both types. Seafood allergy was more common in adults compared with children (2.8% vs 0.6%; P P Conclusions Physician-diagnosed and/or convincing seafood allergy is reported by 2.3% of the general population, or approximately 6.6 million Americans. Affected individuals typically report recurrent and sometimes severe reactions, indicating that seafood allergy represents a significant health concern.
A frequency-agile RF frontend for multi-band TDD radios in 45nm SOI CMOS

A tunable and highly digital RF frontend for multi-band TDD radios is integrated in 45nm SOI CMOS. The PA absorbs the TX branch of the TX/RX switch with no added loss. Peak PA output power is 27.5±0.5dBm from 1.6 to 3.4GHz, with up to 30% total efficiency at 2V. For TDD LTE applications, better than -30dBc ACLR and -25dB EVM is measured with 16-QAM, 20MHz signals from 1.65 to 3.5GHz, with up to 16.5% average efficiency and 22.9dBm average power. The broadband LNA achieves AV > 14dB, NF=4.3 ± 1.6dB and IIP3 > -7dBm from 1.6 to 3.4GHz while drawing just 6mA from 1V.
Ultrafast studies on electron transfer in the betaines: evidence for local heating

We have made ultrafast time resolved pump probe measurements on the intramolecular electron transfer (ET) of the betaines, specifically betaine3O and penta-t-butyl betaine. The data have been analyzed to determine the ET rate in a range of solvent environments, at various temperatures and at a variety of pump and probe wavelengths. In all cases, the observed ET rate is fast, often faster than predicted by common ET theories. As a result, we have extended some common theories to successfully predict the measured ET rates. In addition to the ET dynamics, the data also display evidence for local heat deposition in the immediate vicinity of the betaine molecule which our extended model qualitatively predicts.
A generalized pulse-spectrum technique (GPST) for determining time-depenedence coefficients of one-dimensional diffusion equations

The applicability of the generalized pulse-spectrum technique (GPST) is demonstrated for the solutions of inverse problems of one-dimensional linear diffusion equations with time-dependent coefficients. Numerical simulations are carried out to test the feasibility and to study the general characteristics of this technique without real measurement data. It is found that the GPST also gives excellent results and is as robust as it is for solving the time-independent coefficient inverse problems.
Compact three-dimensional camera for robot and vehicle guidance

Abstract A very compact 3-D range sensor for robot and vehicle guidance is described. A dual aperture mask in a camera lens is used to transform a small commercially available CCD video camera into a ranging sensor. An active system using a projected laser beam provides a 360° range map which can be used to plan trajectories, either for robots or autonomous vehicles. Good quality panoramic intensity and 3-D images were obtained. Accuracy, speed of acquisition, and cost are discussed. Experimental results are presented.
A UAV Trajectory Planning Algorithm for Simultaneous Search and Track

This paper considers trajectories for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that must search an area while tracking a target. The UAV has a constrained turn rate and a constant velocity; it is assumed that there are certain areas of interest that have a higher search value than others. An algorithm is presented that seeks to maximize the value of the area searched while still maintaining the track. The problem is discretized in both time and the control; the motion of the UAV is constrained to the reachability graph, a subset of the forward reachable set. At each revisit, the target path is estimated for the next revisit. A heuristic method is used to determine the best UAV path, because the target path is not known a priori. Feasible paths are found by examining the terminating vertices of the reachability graph. A cooperative implementation, for a team of UAVs patrolling the same region, is developed. Simulation indicates the feasibility of the method for a real-time implementation. Trajectories for example scenarios are presented and discussed.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Anomalous oxygen and silicon isotopes in meteorites

The origin of the isotopically anomalous oxygen components found in various meteorites can be attributed to an intense irradiation of the solar system materials during the T-Tauri phase of the young Sun. Such an irradiation is expected to have produced large isotopic anomalies for oxygen, but not for silicon, in the meteorites.
Peritoneal macrophage and blood monocyte functions after open and laparoscopic-assisted cecectomy in rats.

Background: It has been well established that open abdominal surgery results in systemic immunosuppression postoperatively; in contrast, laparoscopic surgery is associated with significantly better preserved systemic immune function. However, when intraperitoneal (local) immune function is considered, laparoscopic procedures done under a CO2 pneumoperitoneum (pneumo) have been shown to result in greater immunosuppression compared to that of open surgery. Few studies have simultaneously assessed systemic and local immune function. The purpose of this study was to assess peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and peritoneal macrophage tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, H2O2 production, and MHC class II antigen expression after open and laparoscopically assisted cecectomy in a rat model. Methods: A total of 75 Sprague Dawley rats were used for three separate experiments. For each study, rats were randomly divided into three groups: anesthesia alone (AC), laparoscopic-assisted cecectomy (LC), and open cecectomy via full laparotomy (OP). A CO2 pneumo was used for laparoscopic operations. On postoperative day 1 the animals were sacrificed, macrophages were harvested via intraperitoneal lavage, and PBMCs were isolated from whole blood obtained by cardiac puncture. In experiment 1, macrophages and PBMC from each animal were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide, after which TNF-α levels of the supernatant were determined. In experiment 2, after stimulation with PMA, H2O2 release was assessed by measuring fluorescence. In experiment 3, via flow cytometry, the number of cells with surface MHC class II proteins were determined. Data from the three groups in each experiment were compared using analysis of variance Tukey-Kramer tests. Results: Macrophages and PBMC from mice in the OP group released significantly more TNF-α than cells from mice in the LC (p < 0.05) or AC (p < 0.05) groups. Macrophages from mice in the OP group released significantly less H2O2 than cells from the AC (p < 0.01) and LC (p < 0.05) groups. There was no difference between the AC and LC results. No significant differences in PBMC H2O2 release were noted among any of the groups. OP group macrophages expressed significantly less MHC class II antigen than did AC group macrophages (p < 0.05). No differences were noted among the LC results and either the OP or AC group’s outcomes. No differences were noted in PBMC MHC class II expression among any of the groups. Conclusions: In all instances, the LC group’s macrophage results were similar to the AC group’s results. OC group macrophages produced significantly more TNF-α and less H2O2 than both the AC and LC groups. MHC class II protein expression was less for the OC group than for the AC group. OC group PBMCs produced more TNF-α. No differences in PBMC H2O2 release or MHC class II expression were noted. Laparoscopic methods better preserves the baseline values of the parameters studied.
An organizational approach for the study of the diffusion of process innovation strategies in internal auditing and control systems

Abstract Davenport (1993a) has pointed out that the diffusion of innovation approach as a behavioral process change has been limited to the study of how new information technology can be successfully adopted, rather than “how innovation can improve organizational performance.” This article extends Davenport's challenge to bridge this research gap by applying the diffusion of innovation approach to study accounting and control systems as an administrative process innovation approach to improve business performance. We chose to study internal auditing because it constitutes an important aspect of an administrative process innovation program that is critical for improving business performance programs.
Effect of tibial component position on patellar strain following total knee arthroplasty

Patellar fracture following total knee arthroplasty has been related to component alignment and tibiofemoral joint-line position. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of anteroposterior displacement of the tibial component and inferosuperior displacement of the tibiofemoral joint line on patellar strain following total knee arthroplasty with a cruciate-substituting design. Patellar strain increased (decreased) with anterior and inferior (posterior and superior) displacement. When averaged across all flexion angles, the strain changed approximately 1.7%/mm of anteroposterior displacement and 1.0%/mm of inferosuperior displacement. For individual specimens, changes in strain as high as 3.2%/mm of inferosuperior displacement of the joint were seen. These changes in strain may be associated with changes in tibiofemoral joint-line position. These changes in strain may be a biomechanical indicator of the efficacy of retaining the preoperative position of the tibiofemoral joint line.
Characterization of insulin-like growth factor-I/somatomedin-C receptors on human keratinocyte monolayers.

Abstract A membrane receptor for insulin on cultured human keratinocyte monolayers has recently been reported. It has also been established by previous investigators that the receptors for insulin and the somatomedin peptide, insulin-like growth factor-I/somatomedin-C (IGF-I), have similar oligomeric composition. However, these 2 receptors can be distinguished by their high affinitiy for their respective peptides. The present study was undertaken to identify and characterize IGF-I receptors on human keratinocytes, using time courses at different temperatures, competitive displacement of [ 125 I]IGF-I by unlabeled IGF-I and insulin, and comparative binding of IGF-I, IGF-II, and insulin. The binding of[ 125 I]IGF-I was time and temperature dependent, achieving steady state after 6 h of incubation at 15°C. Specific binding at 15°C averaged 4.33% for 0.8–1.0 million cells. Competition for binding was observed at IGF-I concentrations as low as 1 ng/ml, with half maximal displacement of [ 125 I]IGF-I at IGF-I concentration of 17 ng/ml. Insulin, on the other hand, was 100-fold less potent than IGF-I in displacing [ 125 I]IGF-I. Scatchard analysis of the competitive binding data revealed a curvilinear plot, with a calculated K d = 1.4 × 10 −9 mol/liter. When the binding of [ 125 I]IGF-I, -IGF-II, and -insulin was compared in the same experiment, the specific binding of [ 125 I]IGF-I was 3.43% as compared with 5.60% for [ 125 I]insulin and 0.90% for [ 125 I]IGF-II. The finding of specific IGF-I receptors on cultured human keratinocytes suggests a possible role for this mitogenic peptide in epidermal cell proliferation.
Anchoring world and time in biblical Hebrew

One of the most puzzling issues in biblical Hebrew has been its verbal system. In this article, I deal with one of the forms, namely wayyiqtol , suggesting that its meaning is compositional, calculated from three components: a verbal base and two morphemes. The verbal base is shown to be modal, involving quantification over possible worlds. The two morphemes prefixed to the verbal base restrict its modal nature. One morpheme functions like the definite article in a noun phrase; it picks out one of the possible worlds, the familiar actual world (Wo), and anchors the event into it. The other morpheme builds a reference-time, locating the event in time.
The 3-D analysis of discontinuously reinforced aluminum composite microstructures

Automated serial sectioning is presented as an attractive experimental technique for producing an accurate, large-scale three-dimensional (3-D) digital microstructural model of an extruded discontinuously reinforced aluminum composite material. The model is used as input for an elastic-plastic 3-D finite-element analysis that simulates tensile loading of the microstructure. The 3-D visualization and characterization of the resultant deformation structures within the composite microstructure has allowed some of the critical microstructural features that control the tensile response to be identified.