cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 3-D Chain Algorithm with Pseudo-rigid-body Model Elements

A chain algorithm element is created from pseudo-rigid-body segments and used in a chain calculation that accurately predicts the force deflection relationship of beams with large 3-D deflections. Each chain element is made up of three superimposed pseudo-rigid-body models acting orthogonally in relation to each other. The chain algorithm can accurately and quickly predict large displacements and the force-deflection relationship of lateral torsional buckled beams. This approach is not intended to compete with finite element analysis, but rather is a supplement tool that may prove particularly useful in the early phases of design when many analysis iterations are required. The 3-D chain algorithm is demonstrated and compared to the finite element analysis for the nonlinear large-deflection, post-buckling path of a flexible beam undergoing lateral-torsional buckling.
Science and human rights

Abstract The idea of human rights and modern science co‐evolved in a cultural milieu in which the authority of the state and the church was called into question. The inherent dignity of the individual was elevated, along with his or her capacity to think and inquire. Rights took shape historically as the individual achieved this dignity. While the idea of rights and inquiry are historically bound, rights promoted the process of change and the growth of wisdom.
Comparison of men and women with binge eating disorder.

Objective This study examined gender differences in individuals with binge eating disorder (BED) on eating-related psychopathology and general psychological functioning. Method: Subjects were age-matched men (n = 21) and women (n = 21) with BED who were administered the Eating Disorders Examination (EDE), the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R (SCID) and SCID II, and who completed the Emotional Eating Scale (EES) and other questionnaires regarding psychological functioning. Results: Men and women did not differ on measures of eating disturbance, shape and weight concerns, interpersonal problems, or self-esteem, but more men than women met criteria for at least one Axis I diagnosis and had a lifetime diagnosis of substance dependence. Women were more likely to report eating in response to negative emotions, particularly anxiety, anger and frustration, and depression. Discussion: Results from our study suggest that while men and women presenting for treatment for BED are very similar, males may have more Axis I psychiatric disturbance and less emotional eating than their female counterparts. These findings are discussed in terms of the role of gender in BED and possible treatment implications are explored. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Time-Resolved Spectra of Rare-Earth Ions*

An apparatus has been developed for the study of the afterglow of a rare-earth spark with a time resolution of 0.1 μsec. A hydrogen thyratron controls a rapidly firing spark gap and the spectrum of the afterglow is recorded with pulsed photomultipliers and ratio techniques. Tests with preseodymium have shown that it is possible to separate lines according to the ion of origin for the second, third, and fourth spectra, according to configuration of origin in the third spectrum of praseodymium, for example, the emission lines of the 4f26p–4f26s and 4f25d–4f3 transitions. In the case of the 4f25d–4f3 transition, some terms of the 4f25d configuration are indicated from the more intense lines. The methods developed with praseodymium have been applied to neodymium, and some preliminary results are reported.
Soybean disease resistance protein RHG1-LRR domain expressed, purified and refolded from Escherichia coli inclusion bodies: preparation for a functional analysis.

Abstract Introduction and expression of foreign genes in bacteria often results accumulation of the foreign protein(s) in inclusion bodies (IBs). The subsequent processes of refolding are slow, difficult and often fail to yield significant amounts of folded protein. RHG1 encoded by rhg1 was a soybean ( Glycine max L. Merr.) transmembrane receptor-like kinase (EC 2.7.11.1) with an extracellular leucine-rich repeat domain. The LRR of RHG1 was believed to be involved in elicitor recognition and interaction with other plant proteins. The aim, here, was to express the LRR domain in Escherichia coli (RHG1-LRR) and produce refolded protein. Urea titration experiments showed that the IBs formed in E. coli by the extracellular domain of the RHG1 protein could be solubilized at different urea concentrations. The RHG1 proteins were eluted with 1.0–7.0 M urea in 0.5 M increments. Purified RHG1 protein obtained from the 1.5 and 7.0 M elutions was analyzed for secondary structure through circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Considerable secondary structure could be seen in the former, whereas the latter yielded CD curves characteristic of denatured proteins. Both elutions were subjected to refolding by slowly removing urea in the presence of arginine and reduced/oxidized glutathione. Detectable amounts of refolded protein could not be recovered from the 7.0 M urea sample, whereas refolding from the 1.5 M urea sample yielded 0.2 mg/ml protein. The 7.0 M treatment resulted in the formation of a homogenous denatured state with no apparent secondary structure. Refolding from this fully denatured state may confer kinetic and/or thermodynamic constraints on the refolding process, whereas the kinetic and/or thermodynamic barriers to attain the folded conformation appeared to be lesser, when refolding from a partially folded state.
DEMOGRAPHIC, PSYCHOSOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL DIFFERENCES IN SAMPLES OF ACTIVELY AND PASSIVELY CONSENTED ADOLESCENTS

Requiring active consent from parents leads to different self-reports by adolescents than when it is not required. The present study compares self-reported demographic, psychosocial, and behavior variables between those students from whom active consent was and was not obtained. As found in previous studies, fewer minorities, fewer persons who were dissatisfied with school, fewer persons whose parents were of lower educational levels, and fewer cigarette smokers were represented in the sample recruited by active parental consent. Extending on previous work, we found those students whose parents failed to respond to the consent procedure were less likely to live with both parents, were more likely to be latch-key children, placed a lower priority on health, and were higher in risk-taking, lower in self-esteem, and lower in assertiveness than those whose parents had responded. These data further support the suggestion that those children who are omitted from a research study because of lack of action on the part of the parent are at higher risk for a number of health and social problems. These children need to be included in evaluation samples in order to accurately assess the effectiveness of prevention programming. Future studies should employ a passive consent procedure as a means of recruiting a representative subject pool in school-based prevention research.
Building on Successes: Reflections from Two Approaches to Study Abroad for Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Abstract This essay offers suggestions for faculty who are designing study abroad (SA) experiences by outlining a three-week Maymester study abroad to Reggio Emilia, Italy, and a semester-long study abroad to Brussels, Belgium. The authors reflect on commonalities in planning, recruiting, preparing students, and conducting each trip, as well as some of the differences in the experiences for both students and faculty.
Semiempirical Models of the Solar Atmosphere. II. The Quiet-Sun Low Chromosphere at Moderate Resolution

We present a new, one-dimensional model of the solar atmosphere (called SRPM 305) at moderate angular resolution (~1''-2''). Key characteristics of the SRPM 305 model include (1) a minimum temperature of ~3800 K at a gas pressure of ~80 dyne cm-2 and (2) a rapid temperature rise above the temperature-minimum layer that results in substantial overionization of most elements when compared with LTE calculations. The model calculations reproduce the ~4300 K minimum brightness temperature of the UV continuum (between 1400-1500 A) observed by SUMER and the ~4400 K observed minimum radio-continuum brightness temperature (between wavelengths 0.01 and 100 mm). Neither the UV nor the radio continuum bear on the low-temperature minimum value because their broad intensity contribution functions cause the higher temperatures of the upper chromospheric layers to effectively hide the low minimum temperature region. The SRPM 305 model reproduces the observed intensities of CO lines at 4.466 μm, at both the disk center and near the limb, by using C and O abundances consistent with recent literature low values. The model also reproduces observed intensities of C I spectral lines at 5381 and 8337 A, CH lines at about 4306 A, the CN band head at 3883 A, and the O I lines at 7772, 7774, and 7776 A, respectively. Using the SRPM 305 model, we find no significant abundance variations between the photosphere and the low chromosphere. Consequently, the single-component model presented here matches several apparently contradictory observations and thereby resolves the controversy about the temperature minimum value.
A Field-Based Learning Experience for Introductory Level GIS Students.

Abstract This article describes a pedagogic foundation for introducing a field-based geographic information systems (GIS) experience to the GIS curriculum at the university level and uses a dual evaluation methodology to monitor student learning and satisfaction. Students learned the basics of field-based global position systems (GPS) and GIS data collection and management using hand-held devices. Overall, students were appreciative of the opportunity to learn new techniques. Questionnaire data support the conclusion that a field-based GIS inquiry approach is a pedagogical strategy in a GIS curriculum that engages students and results in positive learning outcomes.
Monocultural Teachers and Multicultural Students: A Demographic Clash.

(1992). Monocultural Teachers and Multicultural Students: A Demographic Clash. Teaching Education: Vol. 4, No. 2, pp. 87-93.
Spectral sensitivity of the peripheral retina to large and small stimuli.

Abstract Increment-threshold spectral sensitivity functions were taken foveally and at four other retinal locations with different sized test stimuli. For the fovea and parafovea at 4°, a 1°, 250 msec stimulus of variable wavelength, flashed on a 1000 td white background yielded spectral sensitivity curves with three distinct maxima located near 455, 530–540 and 600 nm. As eccentricity increased so did the minimum spot size needed to produce spectral curves with three peaks. In particular, the 2°10′ spot at 20°, 4°10′ at 30° and 5.5° at 45° gave this result. Smaller stimuli in the periphery yielded curves with a minor peak at 455 nm, present under some conditions, and a major broad peak at 560 nm that resembled the CIE photopic luminosity function. Two different systems subserve detection : the three-peaked curves indicate mediation by the opponent-color system while the other type of function can be attributed to the non-opponent system.
Carotid MR angiography using pulsed continuous arterial spin labeling

Carotid artery disease is a major cause of cerebral ischemia and infarction. It is routinely assessed using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Several methods for nonenhanced MRA exist, which may be particularly advantageous in patients with impaired renal function due to the risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Pulsed arterial spin-labeled (ASL) MRA has been investigated for carotid MRA, however, the signal to noise ratio (SNR) with the method is problematic when short repetition times are used to minimize scan time or when long labeling times are used to maximize visible vessel length. In contrast to pulsed ASL (PASL), we hypothesized that pulsed continuous ASL (PCASL) would provide improved SNR at short repetition times and/or long labeling durations.
Kappa Opioid Agonists and Antagonists: Effects on Drinking and Urinary Output

Several opioid antagonists have previously been shown to decrease drinking. The data have suggested that this was due to an antagonist action at kappa opioid receptors rather than mu or delta opioid receptors. Kappa agonists have a marked diuretic effect through suppression of vasopressin release. Antagonism of this kappa receptor-mediated effect can be used as an in vivo test for determining kappa-receptor antagonist activity. The potencies of opioid antagonists for antagonizing the diuretic effects of the kappa agonist bremazocine do not correlate directly with the potencies for decreasing deprivation-induced drinking. Further work should investigate the receptor specificity for effects on drinking and kappa-mediated diuresis.
Bipolar Degradation in 4H-SiC Thyristors

Bipolar degradation in 4H-SiC thyristors subjected to high current density stress is reported. The thyristor device structure, its fabrication process as well as testing conditions are described. The Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) technique was used for defect analysis in testing of both degraded and non-degraded devices. Possible nucleation sites responsible for the generation of observed defects in degraded devices are discussed
EFFICACY OF AN ESCHERICHIA COLI PHYTASE IN BROILERS FED ADEQUATE OR REDUCED PHOSPHORUS DIETS AND ITS EFFECT ON CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS

Five experiments (EXP) were conducted to assess the efficacy of an Escherichia coli phytase compared with 2 commercially available fungal phytases. In EXP 1 and 2, male broiler chicks were fed experimental diets that included a P-deficient control (0.13% available P; 0.88% Ca) alone or with graded levels of KH(2)PO(4) (0, 0.05, 0.10, or 0.15%) or phytase at levels of 250, 500, 1,000, 2,000, or 4,000 phytase units/kg of E. coli phytase (EXP 1 and 2), fungal phytase 1 (EXP 2), or fungal phytase 2 (EXP 2). In EXP 1 and 2, weight gain and tibia ash (mg/chick and %) responded linearly (P 0.05) from that of chicks fed the P-adequate diet. In addition, carcass yield of broilers fed E. coli phytase was not reduced (P > 0.05). In EXP 4, E. coli phytase effectively supported weight gain, tibia ash, breast yield, and leg yield compared with birds fed the P-adequate diet, but clavicle breakage during processing was increased in birds fed E. coli phytase. In EXP 5, E. coli phytase again effectively supported weight gain, and no differences (P > 0.05; compared with the P-adequate diet) were noted for clavicle ash, diameter, or breaking strength. No differences (P > 0.05) in bone breakage during processing were noted among treatments. These results indicate that the addition of E. coli phytase to P-deficient broiler diets improves growth, bone, and carcass performance and is more effective at releasing phytate-bound P than the other phytase products that were tested.
Ethnicity as a variable in mental disorder research

Despite voluminous research on mental disorders conducted on several levels with numerous variables. other potentially significant variables often are implied but seldom investigated. Most non-organically oriented studies have dealt with psychological variables. Research investigating socio-cultural variables has paid particular attention to social status. This paper suggests that investigations of socio-economic aspects of mental disorders — especially when directed toward etiology — are implicitly concerned with value systems, a related concept. But since value systems are more abstract than socio-economic status, a more easily operationalized intermediate variable — yet one more closely representing value systems — may be useful. Ethnicity is suggested for this purpose.
The influence of cultivation methods on Shewanella oneidensis physiology and proteome expression

High-throughput analyses that are central to microbial systems biology and ecophysiology research benefit from highly homogeneous and physiologically well-defined cell cultures. While attention has focused on the technical variation associated with high-throughput technologies, biological variation introduced as a function of cell cultivation methods has been largely overlooked. This study evaluated the impact of cultivation methods, controlled batch or continuous culture in bioreactors versus shake flasks, on the reproducibility of global proteome measurements in Shewanellaoneidensis MR-1. Variability in dissolved oxygen concentration and consumption rate, metabolite profiles, and proteome was greater in shake flask than controlled batch or chemostat cultures. Proteins indicative of suboxic and anaerobic growth (e.g., fumarate reductase and decaheme c-type cytochromes) were more abundant in cells from shake flasks compared to bioreactor cultures, a finding consistent with data demonstrating that “aerobic” flask cultures were O2 deficient due to poor mass transfer kinetics. The work described herein establishes the necessity of controlled cultivation for ensuring highly reproducible and homogenous microbial cultures. By decreasing cell to cell variability, higher quality samples will allow for the interpretive accuracy necessary for drawing conclusions relevant to microbial systems biology research.
The n-person Nash bargaining solution with time preference

Abstract The paper introduces an n-person Nash bargaining solution in the time-preference framework. The solution is one which equalizes ‘marginal impatience’ among all players.
Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) study of benzene and its coadsorption with carbon monoxide on Rh(111)

Abstract The surface structures of benzene and coadsorbed benzene/carbon monoxide on a Rh(111) surface have been studied using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). Benzene does not form a well-ordered overlayer on Rh(111), even at saturation coverage. When the coverage is ≈0.5 monolayer, only the benzene molecules at the top side of the step edges were imaged, while those on the terraces could not be detected by the STM owing to rapid diffusion. Coadsorption of carbon monoxide decreased the mobility of benzene which could then be imaged by STM. It was also found that carbon monoxide enhanced the surface ordering by formation of coadsorbed benzene/CO overlayers. The attractive interaction between benzene and carbon monoxide on Rh(111) surface contributes to the inhibition of the benzene diffusion and the enhancement of the surface overlayer ordering.
Folding Funnels and Energy Landscapes of Larger Proteins within the Capillarity Approximation

The characterization of protein-folding kinetics with increasing chain length under various thermodynamic conditions is addressed using the capillarity picture in which distinct spatial regions of the protein are imagined to be folded or trapped and separated by interfaces. The quantitative capillarity theory is based on the nucleation theory of first-order transitions and the droplet analysis of glasses and random magnets. The concepts of folding funnels and rugged energy landscapes are shown to be applicable in the large size limit just as for smaller proteins. An ideal asymptotic free-energy profile as a function of a reaction coordinate measuring progress down the funnel is shown to be quite broad. This renders traditional transition state theory generally inapplicable but allows a diffusive picture with a transition-state region to be used. The analysis unifies several scaling arguments proposed earlier. The importance of fluctuational fine structure both to the free-energy profile and to the glassy dynamics is highlighted. The fluctuation effects lead to a very broad trapping-time distribution. Considerations necessary for understanding the crossover between the mean field and capillarity pictures of the energy landscapes are discussed. A variety of mechanisms that may roughen the interfaces and may lead to a complex structure of the transition-state ensemble are proposed.
Multiresolution approach to discriminating targets from clutter in SAR imagery

We develop and extensively test a new algorithm for discriminating man-made objects from natural clutter in synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) imagery. The novel feature of our approach is its exploitation of the characteristically distinct variations in speckle pattern for imagery of man-made objects and of natural clutter, as image resolution is varied from coarse to fine. We treat these characteristics using stochastic framework, specifically tailored for multiresolution random processes and fields. Within the framework, we build a pair of multiscale models: one for SAR imagery of natural clutter and another for imagery of man-made objects. We then use these models to define a multiresolution discriminant as the likelihood ratio for distinguishing between the two image types, given a multiresolution sequence of images of a region of interest (ROI). We incorporate this likelihood ratio into an existing, established discriminator that was developed at Lincoln Laboratory (LL) as part of a complete system for automatic target recognition (ATR). To classify a given ROI, we merge the information provided by our likelihood ratio with the measured values of a small number of size and brightness features. We have applied the resulting new discriminator to an extensive data set of 0.3-meter resolution, HH polarization imagery gathered with the LL millimeter-wave SAR. The detection results are extremely good. In particluar, the new discriminator achieves a significant improvement in receiver operating characteristics, compared to an optimized version of the standard discriminator that is traditionally used in the LL ATR system. This result conclusively demonstrates that multiresolution methods have an effective and important role to play in SAR ATR algorithms.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Predictors of the pressor response to the clinic visit in essential hypertensives with and without diabetes mellitus.

Predicttve models for the pressor response to the outpatient clinic visit (PRC) in essential hypertensives with and without diabetes are proposed. The hypotheses are derived from previous studies about the univariate correlates of this response. PRC was measured with ambulatory monitors. Twenty-four hour blood pressures and average PRCs were similar in the two groups. Diabetics had faster 24-h heart rates, decreased heart rate variability, a broader range of PRCs and more depressor responders. PRC of nondiabetics correlated with duration of hypertension and was dependent on race; the predictive model hadR2 of 0.19. In contrast, PRC of diabetics exhibited correlations with age, weight, BP and blood glucose and the model hadR2 of 0.71. The data suggest that: diabetics had autonomic dysfunction, that their PRC can be modelled with predictors that are accepted correlates of autonomic neuropathy, and that these predictors attenuated PRC or its buffering. If these results were confirmed by prospective application of the model to a larger group of patients, ‘true’ blood pressures could be estimated by subtraction of predicted PRC from office blood pressures in diabetic, but not in nondiabetic, hypertensive patients.
Prelude to a school shooting? Assessing threatening behaviors in childhood and adolescence.

On March 21, 2005, Jeffrey Weise, a 16-year-old student at Red Lake High School, Minnesota, killed his grandfather and his grandfather_s girlfriend. Next, he drove his grandfather_s squad car to the high school and fatally shot a security guard. Before mortally wounding five students and a teacher and injuring seven others, Jeffrey smiled and waved. He then committed suicide by shooting himself in the head.
Citrus leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) in lime: Assessment of leaf damage and effects on photosynthesis

Abstract Studies were conducted to quantify leaf area damage to ‘Tahiti’ lime by citrus leafminer (CLM) (Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton) and to relate leaf damage to larval density and the length of time mining per leaf. Visual estimates of leaf damage were similar among five evaluators and were positively correlated with image analysis determinations. The number of CLM larvae per leaf and the number of days of mining were positively correlated with visual estimates of leaf damage and negatively correlated with net photosynthesis. Leaf damage by CLM was negatively correlated with net photosynthesis of potted trees and trees in an orchard. The data indicate that visual estimation is an accurate and rapid technique to assess leaf damage by CLM, and that leaf area damage and reductions in net photosynthesis due to CLM are related to the number of larvae per leaf as well as to mining duration.
A method for reversible drug delivery to internal tissues of Drosophila embryos.

Drosophila melanogaster is a powerful model organism to elucidate basic cellular mechanisms of development. Indeed, much of our understanding of genetic pathways comes from work in Drosophila. However, mutations in many critical genes cause early embryonic lethality; thus, it is difficult to study the role of proteins that are required for early fundamental processes during later embryonic stages. We have therefore developed a method to reversibly deliver drugs to internal tissues of stage 15–16 Drosophila embryos using a 1:1 combination of D-limonene and heptane (LH). Specifically, delivery of Nocodazole was shown to be effective as evidenced by the significant decrease in microtubule density seen in muscle cells. Following complete depolymerization of the microtubule cytoskeleton, removing the Nocodazole and washing for 10 min was sufficient for the microtubule network to be re-established, indicating that drug delivery is reversible. Additionally, the morphology of LH-treated embryos resembled that of ...
Experimental performance evaluation of non-line-of-sight ultraviolet communication systems

Motivated by rapid advances in solar blind ultraviolet (UV) light emitting diodes (LEDs), filters and photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), together with unique UV atmospheric propagation characteristics, a non-line-of-sight (NLOS) UV communication test-bed has been recently built and utilized for extensive experimental evaluation of performance of NLOS UV links in outdoor environments. Towards this end, key link components are first characterized and their limitations are identified. The tradeoffs among communication range, received number of photons, and bit-error-rate are revealed via field measurement results. Wavelength diversity is achieved by utilizing combinations of sources and detectors centered at different wavelengths in the solar blind band. It is demonstrated that signals can be reliably transmitted to their destinations of dozens of meters away through an NLOS channel. Although all reported results in this paper are based on open field experiments, it is found that reflections from surrounding objects such as trees and buildings can enhance the received signal strength, up to an order of magnitude increase in the received number of photons in some cases, thus significantly improving link performance.
Improving infiltration modeling in commercial building energy models

Abstract As building envelope performance and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment efficiencies are increasingly improved to reduce building energy use, a greater percentage of the total energy loss of a building can occur through envelope leakage. Although the energy impacts of unintended infiltration on a building's energy use can be significant, current energy simulation software and design methods are generally not able to accurately account for envelope infiltration and the impacts of improved airtightness. New strategies to incorporate airflow calculations into building energy calculations are proposed, which are based on relationships between infiltration rates calculated using multizone airflow models, building characteristics, including envelope airtightness, weather conditions, and HVAC system operation. The new strategies are more accurate than current approaches in energy simulation software and easier to apply than multizone airflow modeling.
Evolution of the PowerPC architecture

The PowerPC is a new RISC architecture derived from IBM's POWER architecture. The changes made to POWER simplify implementations, increase clock rates, enable a higher degree of superscalar execution, extend the architecture to 64 bits, and add multiprocessor support. For compatibility with existing software, the developers retained POWER's basic instruction set, opcode assignments, and programming model. >
Individualism, technology, and sport: the speedway nexus.

This study investigates automobile racing in American Society as a sport with meaning and impact beyond the content of any one event or contest. Noting the need for symbols of individual identity and accomplishment in an increasingly mechanical and bureaucratic culture, the paper asserts that domination of mechanistic forces through the medium of auto racing provided identity both in direct form to the driver, and vicariously to the spectator. I n addition, the sport offers a sense of "place" or"belonging" to participants in the form of communities of interest. Similar patterns are noted in other automotive sports such as motocross racing. The fact that racing is a sport is significant because sport is public activity, making the symbols and vicarious experiences available to large numbers of people.
The statistical analysis of crash-frequency data: A review and assessment of methodological alternatives

Gaining a better understanding of the factors that affect the likelihood of a vehicle crash has been an area of research focus for many decades. However, in the absence of detailed driving data that would help improve the identification of cause and effect relationships with individual vehicle crashes, most researchers have addressed this problem by framing it in terms of understanding the factors that affect the frequency of crashes - the number of crashes occurring in some geographical space (usually a roadway segment or intersection) over some specified time period. This paper provides a detailed review of the key issues associated with crash-frequency data as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the various methodological approaches that researchers have used to address these problems. While the steady march of methodological innovation (including recent applications of random parameter and finite mixture models) has substantially improved our understanding of the factors that affect crash-frequencies, it is the prospect of combining evolving methodologies with far more detailed vehicle crash data that holds the greatest promise for the future.
An Anti-CD72 Immunotoxin Against Therapy-Refractory B-Lineage Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

CD72 is a broadly expressed B-lineage specific surface antigen. We used J3-109(anti-CD72) monoclonal antibody to examine primary neoplastic cells from patients with acute leukemia for CD72 expression. CD72 was present at high levels in 70 of 100 B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL), but it was not expressed on cells from 23 T-lineage ALL patients or 9 acute myeloblastic leukemia patients. We have prepared an anti-CD72 immunotoxin by conjugating J3-109 monoclonal antibody to the ribosome-inactivating protein, PAP. J3-109-PAP effectively killed > 99.9% of clonogenic blasts from a CD72+ B-lineage ALL cell line. We used a SCID mouse model of aggressive human pre-B ALL to evaluate the in vivo anti-leukemic efficacy of the J3-109-PAP immunotoxin. An intravenous challenge with 1 × 106NALM-6-UM-1 (pre-B ALL)cells caused 100% of SCID mice to die of disseminated leukemia within 41 days. Importantly, a three-day treatment with non-toxic doses of J3-109-PAP significantly improved event-free survival of SCID ...
All that glitters is not gold.

See doi:10.1016/S1095-668X(02)00427-Xfor the article to which this editorial refers. Antiarrhythmic drugs as primary therapy for prevention of sudden cardiac death in patients at risk have largely had a disappointing track record.1 This is particularly true for patients with left ventricular dysfunction. And risk stratification that identifies patients most likely to benefit from antiarrhythmic drug therapy is always welcome. So, it is with considerable interest that Brendorp et al.2 offer an analysis of the DIAMOND CHF trial which indicates that patients in the trial whose QTc interval was ≤429ms appear to have had a therapeutic benefit in a trial in which, overall, there was a neutral outcome for the primary endpoint of all cause mortality. It is certainly not without precedent that one might find a specific subset of patients whose clinical response to a specific antiarrhythmic drug differs from other patient populations. An example of this was the increased risk associated with encainide and flecainide in the Cardiac Arrhythmia Suppression (CAST) trial,3,4 whereas there appears to be no increased mortality risk of the use of flecainide in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who have no structural heart disease.5,6 A more recent and relevant example …
Rac1 and RhoA differentially regulate angiotensinogen gene expression in stretched cardiac fibroblasts

Aims Angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulates cardiac remodeling and fibrosis in the mechanically overloaded myocardium. Although Rho GTPases regulate several cellular processes, including myocardial remodeling, involvement in mediating mechanical stretch-induced regulation of angiotensinogen (Ao), the precursor to Ang II, remains to be determined. We therefore examined the role and associated signaling mechanisms of Rho GTPases (Rac1 and RhoA) in regulation of Ao gene expression in a stretch model of neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts (CFs). Methods and Results CFs were plated on deformable stretch membranes. Equiaxial mechanical stretch caused significant activation of both Rac1 and RhoA within 2-5 min. Rac1 activity returned to control levels after 4 h, whereas RhoA remained at a high level of activity until the end of the stretch period (24 h). Mechanical stretch initially caused a moderate decrease in Ao gene expression, but was significantly increased at 8-24 hs. RhoA had a major role in mediating both the stretch-induced inhibition of Ao at 4 h, as well as the subsequent upregulation of Ao expression at 24 h. β1 integrin receptor blockade by Tac β1 expression impaired acute (2 and 15 min) stretch-induced Rac1 activation, but increased RhoA activity. Molecular experiments revealed that Ao gene expression was inhibited by Rac1 through both JNK-dependent and independent mechanisms, and stimulated by RhoA through a p38-dependent mechanism. Conclusions These results indicate that stretch-induced activation of Rac1 and RhoA differentially regulate Ao gene expression by modulating p38 and JNK activation.
Degradation of High- $k$ /Metal Gate nMOSFETs Under ESD-Like Stress in a 32-nm Technology

The degradation of nMOSFETs induced by nondestructive electrostatic discharge-like (ESD-like) stress in a 32-nm bulk CMOS technology was studied using I- V characteristics and charge pumping measurements. The impact of stress on drain saturation current (Idsat), threshold voltage (Vt), transconductance peak (gm), and subthreshold swing (SS) is reported. For ESD stress applied on the drain, little degradation was observed until the device failed by drain-to-source filamentation. In contrast, for stress applied on the gate, positive ESD-like stress decreases Idsat and increases Vt of the nMOSFETs significantly, and the degradation increases with the effective gate oxide thickness. Different from positive bias temperature instability (PBTI) stress, the Vt shift depends on temperature rather weakly, which indicates a new dominant charge-trapping mechanism on the time scale of ESD events. In addition to the degradation of Vt and Idsat, the positive stress also caused significant damage to the Si/oxide interface in the nMOSFETs with thick gate oxide. The degradation of Idsat, Vt , gm, and SS under positive stress is more severe for devices with high-k gate compared to devices with SiON gate. It is also shown that the degradation induced by negative ESD-like stress applied on the gate is much smaller compared to positive stress. Finally, the impacts of the stress on the gate leakage current and on the the subsequent PBTI degradation kinetics are also studied.
Stiffness enhancement of flight control actuator

A modification of the model reference approach, using numerical optimization is proposed for the estimation of external forces applied to control surfaces of an aircraft. This estimation provides the basis for the feedforward control of the surface position. Incorporated into the control system of a flight control actuator, this technique allows a significant enhancement of the actuator stiffness. >
Influence of a native weed, Acalypha ostryaefolia (Euphorbiaceae), on Coleomegilla maculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) population density, predation, and cannibalism in sweet corn

We investigated the density of Coleomegilla maculata (DeGeer), predation by C. maculata on Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) eggs, and egg cannibalism by C. maculata when the weed Acalypha ostryaefolia Riddell was grown in stands of sweet corn ( Zea mays L.). Densities of C. maculata eggs and larvae were significantly higher in weedy plots than in weed-free plots during each of the 3 yr the study was done. Pupal density was significantly higher in weedy plots in 1995 and 1996, but not in 1997. Adult C. maculata density was significantly higher in weedy plots in 1995, but not in 1996 or 1997. Egg cannibalism by adult and larval C. maculata is common on sweet corn plants in Kentucky. C. maculata frequently oviposits on A. ostryaefolia in and around sweet corn plots, and our preliminary observations suggested egg cannibalism was less frequent on A. ostryaefolia than on sweet corn plants. There was a trend for higher abundance of C. maculata eggs on corn plants in weed-free plots than on corn plants in weedy plots; in weedy plots, >85% of eggs were on A. ostryaefolia plants rather than on corn plants. However, larvae were always more abundant on corn plants in weedy plots than on corn plants in weed-free plots and significantly so in 1995 and 1997. Predation of H. zea eggs was significantly higher on corn plants in weedy plots than on corn plants in weed-free plots, whereas cannibalism of C. maculata eggs was significantly higher on corn plants in weedy plots only during 1 of the 3 yr. Thus, presence of A. ostryaefolia in sweet corn plots increased C. maculata egg and larval population densities and predation of H. zea eggs. Direct observations of H. zea egg predation and egg cannibalism by C. maculata revealed that adults predominantly were diurnal but larvae fed day and night.
Constraining Cloud Feedbacks

Despite decades of improvements in computer models of Earth's climate, estimates of the climate sensitivity—the change in global average surface air temperature in response to a doubling of carbon dioxide concentration—remain uncertain ( 1 ). Much of the uncertainty results from radiative feedbacks that amplify or dampen climate changes. Particular attention has been given to the cloud feedback. Global warming is expected to change the cloud cover, but these changes and their effects on global temperature are very difficult to predict. On page 792 of this issue, Fasullo and Trenberth ( 2 ) present an observational test of the cloud feedback based on satellite measurements of relative humidity (RH) in cloud-free subtropical regions. The authors focus on environmental conditions that are easier to observe than the cloud properties themselves.
FAT METABOLISM IN NEPHRITIS

Determinations of the plasma lipoids and of the respiratory quotient and total metabolism (Tissot method) have been performed with nephritics and normal subjects before and after they ingested fat in the proportion of 1 gm. per kilo body weight. After fat ingestion a greater increase of fatty acids and lecithin was noted in the plasma of nephritics with initially high blood lipoids than in the plasma of normal subjects or of nephritics without constant lipemia. In cholesterol no differences were found. The nephritic patients with constant lipemia were able to burn fat as efficiently as normal individuals. The accumulation of fat in their blood may be due to a disturbance in the mechanism for transferring lipoids from the blood to the tissue depots.
Depression and health-related quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal disease with a prevalence rate of 1–3% in Western countries. In addition to limited physical function, rheumatoid arthritis patients also suffer from psychologic comorbidities. Depression in rheumatoid arthritis patients has been linked to disease outcomes such as increased healthcare service utilization and poor adherence to medication. This review focuses on the impact of depression on rheumatoid arthritis patient’s quality of life and how quality of life can be improved through the management of depression. Both generic and disease-specific instruments have been used to assess health-related quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis research. Commonly used instruments include the generic Short Form-36, the Nottingham Health Profile, the disease-specific Arthritis Impact Measurement Scale and the Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life. Studies have shown that depression in rheumatoid arthritis patients may exert an important impact on multiple d...
The teleological science of self-control

In response to Ainslie & Gault: The value of a temporally extended behavioral pattern depends on relationships inherent in the pattern itself. It is not possible to express that value as the simple sum of the discounted present values of the pattern's component acts.In response to Leiber: Teleological behaviorism may be deemed unscientific because it has not yet succeeded to the required degree in predicting and controlling the highly complex patterns of human behavior that comprise our mental lives. However teleological behaviorism is not unscientific because it is teleological or “noncausal;” nor is teleological behaviorism unscientific because it is not reducible to neurophysiology. Nothing in principle bars the development of a teleological science of the mind.
Left ventricular diastolic filling and its association with age

Thirty normal subjects, aged 22 to 80 years, were studied by radionuclide ventriculography to determine the age dependence of cardiac ventricular diastolic function and to evaluate the association of other factors with ventricular diastolic performance. A strong negative correlation was found between peak diastolic filling rate and age (r = -0.82, p less than 0.0001). Partial correlation analysis was used to factor out the strong age dependence and yielded additional significant correlations of peak filling rate with heart rate (r = 0.48, p less than 0.01) and time to peak filling rate (r = -0.48, p less than 0.01). Time to peak filling rate is also correlated with heart rate but not definitely with age. Analysis by multiple linear regression yields an equation predicting peak filling rate from age and heart rate. Thus, the rate of rapid diastolic filling declines markedly with age in normal subjects. The association of peak filling rate with age and with other factors indicates the need for careful consideration of these factors in the interpretation of scintigraphic findings in patients with heart disease.
Invasibility of roadless grasslands: an experimental study of yellow starthistle.

Roadless habitats are commonly found to be less invaded than habitats near roads, but few studies have tested whether this pattern is due to propagule limitation or to greater invasion resistance of roadless sites. We examined reasons for the lower frequency and cover of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis) in grassland sites >1000 m vs. 10 m from roads in an inland California, USA, foothill landscape. During winter 2001 and 2002, we planted 100 Centaurea seeds in 64 pairs of 30 x 30 cm plots (uncleared and cleared of aboveground plant material) at sites stratified by distance from roads (10 m and >1000 m), soil type (nonserpentine and serpentine), and aspect (cool, warm, and neutral slopes). In nonserpentine grasslands, Centaurea survival was greater in uncleared (but not cleared) near (10 m) plots than in distant (>1000 m) plots. These findings suggest that the effect of distance from roads on survival corresponds with higher aboveground biotic resistance in distant sites than in near sites. Centaurea biomass was greater in near than in distant plots (both uncleared and cleared) on nonserpentine soil, suggesting that either abiotic resistance or belowground biotic resistance could limit its growth in distant sites. These distance effects were no longer significant in models that included two biotic co- variates: native grass cover (which was higher in distant sites and negatively correlated with Centaurea performance) and bare ground (which was lower in distant sites and pos- itively correlated with Centaurea performance). On serpentine soil, there was no effect of road proximity on the performance of planted Centaurea. Our results suggest that Centaurea seeds can germinate in nonserpentine and serpentine grasslands regardless of distance from roads. Beyond the seedling stage, however, biotic resistance associated with higher native grass cover and lower levels of disturbance may inhibit Centaurea invasion of nonserpentine grassland sites that are distant from roads.
Addressing ESD for microprocessors and ASICs in 21st century technologies

In this paper we review the present approaches to ESD for microprocessors and ASICs, and the different requirements and constraints for these chips. The evolution of these requirements in the next generations of ICs is discussed.
Finite Element Simulations Explore a Novel Strategy for Surgical Repair of Congenital Aortic Valve Insufficiency

For aortic valve reconstruction in the child, techniques are favored that minimize the introduction of foreign material and graft tissues that do not grow with the child. In this study we use computer simulation to study a potential method for conservatively repairing an aortic valve that is regurgitant due to a congenitally undersized leaflet. The surgical approach consists of resecting portions of the aortic root in order to allow the valve leaflets to close completely. We use a structural finite element model of the aortic valve to simulate valve closure following different strategies for resecting portions of the aortic root (e.g., triangular versus rectangular resection). Results show that rectangular resection of the root is able to eliminate regurgitation and produce a viable repair.
Relationship Investing and Shareholder Activism by Institutional Investors: The Wealth Effects of Corporate Governance Related Proposals

We examine whether institutional investor activism by public pension funds is effective in achieving its stated goal of increasing shareholder value. An investigation of the short term performance indicates that there are significantly positive abnormal returns surrounding the targeting of firms for governance reform. In contrast, in an analysis of long term performance we find that the magnitude of the cumulated excess return varies depending on the specific benchmark portfolio employed. Moreover, we do not find any evidence of statistically significant positive returns. This leads us to question the effectiveness of this form of shareholder activism.
CMOS Compatible Photonic Crystal Nanobeam Cavity Sensors

The growing applications of nanoparticles in energy and healthcare demand new metrology techniques with improved sensitivity and requirement of lower sample concentration. We develop the CMOS compatible photonic crystal nanobeam cavities to size nanoparticles.