cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capturing buried defects in metal interconnections with electron beam inspection system

In this paper we present a novel mode of electron beam inspection (EBI), entitled super wide optics (SWO) mode, which can effectively detect buried defects in tungsten (W) plugs and copper (Cu) wires. These defects are defects of interest (DOI) to integrated circuit (IC) manufacturers because they are not detectable in optical inspection, voltage contrast (VC) mode EBI or physical mode EBI. We used engineering systems to study two samples, a tungsten chemical mechanical polish (CMP) wafer and a copper CMP wafer with a silicon carbon nitride (SiCN) cap layer. EBI with our novel SWO mode was found to capture many dark defects on these two wafers. Furthermore, defect review with all three EBI modes found some of these dark defects were unique to SWO mode. For verification, physical failure analysis was performed on some SWO-unique DOI. The cross-sectional scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and transmission electron microscope (TEM) images confirmed that the unique DOI were buried voids in W-plugs and copper wire thinning caused by either buried particles or buried particle induced metal trench under-etch. These DOI can significantly increase the resistance of metal interconnects of IC chip and affect the chip yield. This new EBI mode can provide an in-line monitoring solution for these DOI, which does not exist before this study.
Is cyclic vomiting syndrome related to migraine

Objective: To examine the overlap between cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) and migraine by comparing 2 subsets of children with migraine-associated and non-migraine-associated CVS. Methods: We studied all children <18 years of age who met the consensus criteria for CVS after presentation to our pediatric gastroenterology service from 1986 to 1998. The clinical patterns and responses to treatment were obtained from a combination of chart reviews and structured interviews. Results: Among 214 children identified as having CVS, 82% were classified as having migraine-associated CVS based on 1 of 2 criteria—either a family history of migraines or subsequent development of migraine headaches. Compared with the non-migraine CVS subgroup, the migraine subset had milder episodes (20.7 ± 27.3 SD vs 39.5 ± 66.5 emeses/episode, P = .006); more symptoms of abdominal pain (83% vs 66%), headache (41% vs 24%), social withdrawal (40% vs 22%), photophobia (36% vs 16%, all P < .05); more frequent triggering events (70% vs 49%, P = .013) including psychologic stress (39% vs 22%), physical exhaustion (23% vs 3%), and motion sickness (10% vs 0%); and a higher positive response rate to anti-migraine therapy (79% vs 36%, P = .002). Conclusions: The majority of children with CVS were subclassified as having migraine-associated CVS. The migraine-associated subgroup had less severe vomiting, manifested symptoms typical of migraine headaches, and had higher response rates to anti-migraine therapy. These findings strengthen the relationship between migraine and CVS. (J Pediatr 1999;134:567-72)
A160: Role of Interleukin-1 in Abnormal Monocyte Phenotype in Systemic Onset Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Background/Purpose: Monocytes phenotype changes in different microenvironments: the proinflammatory M1, regulatory M2, and M2-like phenotypes are each regulated by specific transcriptional factors (TFs). We have observed altered phenotypes in blood monocytes in systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), including a decreased M1 cells, an increased mixed M1/M2 cells, and reduced secretion of IL-1, despite an increased IL-1b response to LPS (PMID 22281427). Here, we investigate whether these monocyte phenotypes are affected by IL-1 blockade. We analyzed monocytes from RAPPORT (RAndomized Placebo Phase study Of Rilonacept in the Treatment of sJIA) patients to determine levels of TFs involved in monocyte polarization and expression of genes related to IL-1 secretion, before and after treatment with Rilonacept, an IL-1 trap. Methods: Subjects on the Rilonacept arm received active drug from week 0 for a total of 24 weeks; subjects on the placebo arm received placebo for 4 weeks, then Rilonacept for 20 weeks. Blood samples were obtained at week 0, 2, 4, 14 and 24. We used real time PCR to measure M1 associated genes: Interferon Regulatory factor (IRF) family IRF5, STAT1; M2 associated genes IRF4, STAT6, Kruppel-Like Factor 4 (KLF4) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ); IL-1 secretion related genes: RAB39, RAB27A, RAB27B, P2RX7, and IL-1β. All TFs levels were normalized by the average levels of 3 housekeeping genes. Results: 30 non-paired RNA samples from 15 subjects were tested. Samples from subjects treated with Rilonacept for ≥10 weeks (Late RAPPORT) showed decreased expression of M2 genes, especially KLF4, compared to those untreated or treated for <10 weeks (Early RAPPORT) (Fig 1), except for PPAR-γ. Samples collected when there was clinical improvement also showed reduced KLF4 (Fig 2.). The expression of TFs following IL-1 inhibition in sJIA patients is distinct from normal controls. Levels of IL-1 secretion related genes, except for RAB27B, also were reduced in “Late RAPPORT” samples (Fig 3.). Figure 1. Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 2. Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 3. Download figure to PowerPoint Conclusion: IL-1 blockade in sJIA is likely associated with changes in the activation profile and expression of IL-1 secretion related genes in circulating monocytes. Monocytes phenotypes in treated subjects are not “normal” and likely reflect changes associated with compensated inflammation.
Characterization of a Lycopersicon esculentum x Solanum lycopersicoides somatic hybrid lacking a glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase isozyme

Morphological, cytological, isozyme and chloroplast DNA analyses were used to determine possible mechanism(s) for the loss of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase-4 (GOT-4) isozyme activity in a somatic hybrid. Plant 204-1, derived by cell fusion between tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) andSolanum lycopersicoides, was characterized for bothGot-4 and acid phosphatase-2 (Aps-2), two isozyme loci which are closely linked (recombination 2.5 cM). This hybrid was determined to be chimeric for bothGot-4 andAps-2. TheS. lycopersicoides plant used to provide cells for the fusion was determined to be heterozygous for bothGot-4 andAps-2. Only oneS. lycopersicoides allelic form ofAps-2 andGot-4 was found in plant 204-1. This observation indicated that either the alternative copy of theS. lycopersicoides chromosome region encodingGot-4 andAps-2 is deleted or the entire chromosome is absent. Plant 204-1 was cytologically determined to be aneuploid with approximately 62 chromosomes. Sixty-two somatic hybrids of separate callus origin were analysed for GOT-4 and a high proportion (27%) lacked theS. lycopersicoides form ofGot-4. The loss of this allele and the linkedAps allele most likely occurred in the suspension culture ofS. lycopersicoides used to provide cells for fusion.
Do Appalachian Women Attending a Mobile Mammography Program Differ from Those Visiting a Stationary Mammography Facility

To compare the characteristics (demographic, access to care, health-related behavioral, self and family medical history, psychosocial) of women aged 40 years and above who utilize a mobile mammography unit with those women aged 40 years and above who obtain mammography screening at a stationary facility. A cross-sectional study design was used with participant cohorts comprised of women age 40 years and above throughout West Virginia (WV) who utilized mobile mammography unit to get mammogram and those who had mammography screening at the stationary facility and completed the Mammography Screening and Preventive Care Survey. A total of 1,161 women who utilized the mobile mammography unit and 1,104 women who utilized stationary facility were included in the analysis. In logistic regression after adjusting for all the variables, women who utilized mobile mammography unit were more likely to be in age group 40–49, with lower income, with no health insurance coverage, not visit doctor or obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) in the past year, not adherent to clinical breast exam and mammography screening guidelines, with lower perceived five-year risk of developing breast cancer and with high knowledge about mammography screening. Women who utilize mobile unit are not adherent to mammography screening guidelines thereby suggesting that the mobile mammography unit is indeed reaching a rural vulnerable population who may not routinely access preventive health services. Financial and insurance constraints, as well as access to medical care, restricted WV women from receiving mammography screening from the stationary screening facilities.
PKR1 Encodes an Assembly Factor for the Yeast V-Type ATPase

Deletion of the yeast gene PKR1 (YMR123W) results in an inability to grow on iron-limited medium. Pkr1p is localized to the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. Cells lacking Pkr1p show reduced levels of the V-ATPase subunit Vph1p due to increased turnover of the protein in mutant cells. Reduced levels of the V-ATPase lead to defective copper loading of Fet3p, a component of the high affinity iron transport system. Levels of Vph1p in cells lacking Pkr1p are similar to cells unable to assemble a functional V-ATPase due to lack of a V0 subunit or an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) assembly factor. However, unlike yeast mutants lacking a V0 subunit or a V-ATPase assembly factor, low levels of Vph1p present in cells lacking Pkr1p are assembled into a V-ATPase complex, which exits the ER and is present on the vacuolar membrane. The V-ATPase assembled in the absence of Pkr1p is fully functional because the mutant cells are able to weakly acidify their vacuoles. Finally, overexpression of the V-ATPase assembly factor Vma21p suppresses the growth and acidification defects of pkr1Δ cells. Our data indicate that Pkr1p functions together with the other V-ATPase assembly factors in the ER to efficiently assemble the V-ATPase membrane sector.
Candidate eco-labeling and senate campaign contributions

Abstract This paper analyzes campaign contributions from environmental political action committees (E-PACs) to Senate candidates. A two-stage empirical model of candidate donations and the likelihood of winning the election is developed that allows for endogeneity between donations and the expected election outcome. The results reveal that E-PACs choose to donate to candidates that are both likely to win the election and to advocate environmental positions once elected. Funding strategies differ for challengers and incumbents. Incumbent funding typically supports maintaining the existing level of environmental advocacy in the Senate by offering contributions for continued pro-environmental votes and other political support. Challenger funding is targeted at unseating vulnerable hostile incumbents. The results also suggest that E-PACs—such as the Sierra Club and the League of Conservation Voters—have been successful in influencing Senate election outcomes and promoting environmental advocacy in the Senate. E-PAC contributions act to “eco-label” candidates and contribute to their election success. The results also show that although moderate levels of environmental advocacy are beneficial to a candidate, voters reject what they perceive to be excessively “green” candidates.
Popular support for an undemocratic regime: the changing views of Russians

Rose, Mishler, and Munro start with an extensive literature review and offer quite a bit of theorisation on political regimes. Their contribution to the field in terms of theorising is beyond doubt...
Rap1 reverses transcriptional repression of TGF-β type II receptor by a mechanism involving AP-1 in the human pancreatic cancer cell line, UK Pan-1

The TGF-beta signaling pathway has potent anti-mitogenic effects in epithelial cells and loss of negative growth regulation is often associated with increased tumorigenicity. The human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell line, UK Pan-1, which expresses DPC4, is not highly responsive to TGF-beta due to transcriptional repression of TGF-beta type II receptor (RII). Here, we show that UK Pan-1 cells transfected with a plasmid to overexpress rap1 protein (UK/rap1) causes an increase in RII transcription and restores sensitivity to TGF-beta growth inhibition. The overexpression of rap1 was associated with diminished ras signaling as measured by ras binding domain (RBD)-binding assays. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) analysis revealed increased binding of nuclear proteins to a previously identified positive regulatory element (PRE1) of the RII promoter in rap1 transfected cells. Competition with an oligo containing the AP-1 consensus site was able to inhibit this binding of nuclear proteins to the PRE1 region. Further EMSA analysis using antibodies to various AP-1 components revealed that junB antibodies partially depleted the increase in binding to the PRE1 seen in UK/rap1 cells while antibodies to other AP-1 constituents such as c-jun, c-fos, and ATF-1 had no effect on binding. Consistent with this data, transient transfection of UK Pan-1 cells with junB resulted in greater RII transcription (twofold) as measured by RII-luciferase assay. Mutation of the AP-1 site inhibited junB-mediated or rap1-mediated increases in RII promoter activity. These data suggest that rap1 signaling may mediate an increase in RII transcription via increased binding of nuclear factors including junB to the PRE1 region of the RII promoter.
Matching pain coping strategies to the individual: a prospective validation of the cognitive coping strategy inventory.

The validity of the Cognitive Coping Strategy Inventory (CCSI; Butler et al., 1989) was tested in a prospective fashion. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions. Some were “matched” to a strategy for which they received a high CCSI score, some were “mismatched” to a strategy for which they received a low CCSI score, and some were given a choice of strategies. Those subjects using a matched strategy obtained better threshold and tolerance times on the cold pressor than subjects who used a mismatched strategy. Despite clear differences in exposure to the cold pressor these conditions did not differ from each other in self-reported levels of pain. It was concluded that the CCSI appears to be a valid and useful tool for selecting a coping strategy to help particular individuals manage acute pain. Though the CCSI is relatively easy to administer and score, the comparative costs and benefits of using it must be weighed against the somewhat more efficient approach of simply offering the subject a choice of treatments. Subjects given a choice of strategies performed as well as subjects matched to a strategy on the basis of CCSI scores.
Neuropharmacology in Pediatric Brain Injury: A Review

In this review, the current evidence is examined regarding neuropharmacologic treatment for children and adolescents (under the age of 18 years) who sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although the focus is on the pediatric TBI population, there is a paucity of empirical data related to the role of medication with children and adolescents after brain injury. Therefore, findings from the adult TBI literature are incorporated where appropriate so as to identify potential agents that warrant further examination in pediatric populations. This review addresses specific sequelae of TBI from the earliest stages of neurologic recovery to long-term comorbidities, including disorders of impaired consciousness, post-TBI agitation, cognitive decline, and post-TBI depression. The evidence regarding the role of medication in neuroprotection and neurorecovery in this population is also explored. Medication classes reviewed include excitatory amino acids, antagonists to the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, dopamine agonists, benzodiazepines, β-blockers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants. It is hoped that this review will guide future research, and ideas as to how this may be accomplished within a pediatric population are suggested.
The Neo-Kantian Dimension of Kelsen's Pure Theory of Law

Roscoe Pound wrote in 1934 that Hans Kelsen was 'unquestionably the leading jurist of the time'.' A quarter of a century later, H. L. A. Hart described Kelsen as 'the most stimulating writer on analytical jurisprudence of our day'.2 And another quarter of a century later, Georg Henrik von Wright compared Kelsen with Max Weber; it is these two thinkers, he wrote, 'who have most deeply influenced ... social science' in this century.3 Other writers appraised Kelsen's work in caustic terms. Many in America and England dismissed his Pure Theory of Law as 'utterly sterile', 'barren', amounting to an 'exercise in logic and not in life'.4 During the Weimar period in Germany, the high point of Kelsen's own role in debates on politics and law in the German-speaking world, writers across the political spectrum contended that the Pure Theory was a failure.5
Biocatalytic removal of mono-chlorobenzene vapor in trickling filters

Abstract Removal of mono-chlorobenzene (m-CB) vapors from air streams in a biotrickling filter unit was studied under various operating conditions concerning inlet m-CB concentration (Cgi), air residence time (τ), liquid recirculation rate (Q), pH, and frequency of medium replenishment. Removal of m-CB was high under all conditions especially when compared to the performance of conventional biofilters removing compounds similar to m-CB. The effect of pH was found to be much less than what is observed with suspended cultures of the same biomass. Concentration profiles of m-CB along the filter bed suggest either zero- or first-order rate law for the process, depending on the inlet m-CB concentration value.
Acousto-Optic Signal Modulation for Atomic Emission Spectrometry Background Correction

An acousto-optic diffraction device is mounted within a polychromator to perform spectral shifting for the purpose of background correction for atomic spectrometry. Controlling the applied frequency to the acousto-optic allows ''on-line'' and ''off-line'' spectral observations. Preliminary investigations included characterization of the behavior of the photomultiplier tube (PMT) signal output at various acoustic frequencies and applied powers to verify the applicability of the system. Low-rate (0.1 Hz) frequency modulation was performed to successfully test the applicability of the background-correction system.
Sensor Fault Detection via Multiscale Analysis of Prediction Model Residuals

In this paper, a new approach to sensor validation in real time is described that is based on (1) representation of the sensor signal by wavelets, (2) decomposition of the signal for different frequency ranges, (3) formation of a prediction model using information at an appropriate frequency (level of decomposition), (4) calculation of residuals, namely, the difference between the predictions of the prediction model and the values of the signal decomposed at the same frequency, and (5) diagnosis of the existence of faults via tests on the residuals. The proposed strategy is able to eliminate the effect of noise and process changes from the effects of physical changes in the sensor itself. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, a simulated noisy signal from a thermocouple in a continuous stirred tank reactor and a temperature signal from an operating pilot distillation column were analyzed. The results of the diagnosis indicated that the proposed strategy had a low type I (false alarm) rate and a satisfactory type II (failure to detect faults) rate.
What can the dihedral angle of conjugate-faults tell us?

Abstract Deformation within the upper crust (elastico-frictional regime) is largely accommodated by fractures and conjugate faults. The Coulomb fracture criterion leads us to expect that the average dihedral angle of conjugate-fault sets is expected to be ∼60°. Experiments, however, reveal a significant amount of scatter from this 60° average. The confining pressure under which these rocks are deformed is a contributing factor to this scatter. The Canyon Range syncline, Sevier fold-thrust belt (USA) and the Jebel Bani, Anti-Atlas fold-belt (Morocco) both folded under different depths, within the elastico-frictional regime, by cataclastic flow. Conjugate-fault sets assisted deformation by cataclastic flow. The Canyon Range syncline and the Jebel Bani are used here as natural examples to test the relationship between the dihedral angle of conjugate-faults and confining pressure. Variations is confining pressure are modeled by the difference in depth of deformation and position within the folds. Results from this study show that the dihedral angle increases with an increase in depth and within the hinge regions of folds, where space problems commonly occur. Moreover, the shortening directions based on the acute bisectors of conjugate-faults may not be accurately determined if the dihedral angles are unusually large or small, leading to incorrect kinematic analyses.
Small-molecule inhibition of siderophore biosynthesis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Yersinia pestis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Yersinia pestis, the causative agents of tuberculosis and plague, respectively, are pathogens with serious ongoing impact on global public health and potential use as agents of bioterrorism. Both pathogens have iron acquisition systems based on siderophores, secreted iron-chelating compounds with extremely high Fe3+ affinity. Several lines of evidence suggest that siderophores have a critical role in bacterial iron acquisition inside the human host, where the free iron concentration is well below that required for bacterial growth and virulence. Thus, siderophore biosynthesis is an attractive target in the development of new antibiotics to treat tuberculosis and plague. In particular, such drugs, alone or as part of combination therapies, could provide a valuable new line of defense against intractable multiple-drug-resistant infections. Here, we report the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of a mechanism-based inhibitor of domain salicylation enzymes required for siderophore biosynthesis in M. tuberculosis and Y. pestis. This new antibiotic inhibits siderophore biosynthesis and growth of M. tuberculosis and Y. pestis under iron-limiting conditions.
Partitioning of U(VI) and Eu(III) between Acidic Aqueous Al(NO3)3 and Tributyl Phosphate in n‐Dodecane

Abstract The preferred approach to removing Al from Hanford tank sludges, based on aqueous alkaline leaching, often does not achieve complete success. Previous laboratory investigations on the treatment of Hanford tank sludge simulant samples indicate that an acidic scrub can enhance the dissolution of Al from various sludge matrices. If acidic leaching was deployed to enhance removal of tank waste residues, the resulting acidic Al(NO3)3 leachate solution could contain measurable amounts of solubilized transuranic elements and so would demand treatment prior to disposal. In this study, a liquid‐liquid extraction system for the decontamination of the HNO3/Al(NO3)3 aqueous leachate by contact with 60% v/v tributyl phosphate (TBP)/n‐dodecane organic solution has been examined. The partitioning of U and Eu between the TBP phase and solutions of varying [HNO3] and [Al(NO3)3] containing small amounts of Cr or ascorbic acid have been investigated.. The results indicate that >99% of both species could be removed ...
Cognitive-Emotional Interactions in the Brain

Abstract Emotion and cognition are mediated by separate but interacting systems of the brain. The core of the emotional system is a network that evaluates (computes) the biological significance of stimuli, including stimuli from the external or internal environment or from within the brain (thoughts, images, memories). The computation of stimulus significance takes place prior to and independent of conscious awareness, with only the computational products reaching awareness, and only in some instances. The amygdala may be a focal structure in the affective network. By way of neural interactions between the amygdala and brain areas involved in cognition (particularly the neocortex and hippocampus), affect can influence cognition and cognition can influence affect. Emotional experiences, it is proposed, result when stimulus representations, affect representations, and self representations coincide in working memory.
Large-scale variations in small-scale temperature/salinity finestructure in the main thermocline of the northwest Atlantic☆

Abstract Large-scale variations of temperature/salinity finestructure have been observed in the main thermocline of the northwest Atlantic Ocean on an oceanographic section along 70°W from the Sargasso Sea to the continental slope. Results suggest that temperature/salinity variability associated with vertical oceanic mixing increases linearly northward as the continental slope and the Gulf Stream are approached from the Sargasso Sea in the south.
Relation of the [3H]γ-hydroxybutyric acid (ghb) binding site to the γ-aminobutyric acidb (gabab) receptor in rat brain

Abstract Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a naturally occurring compound that has the ability to induce generalized absence seizures when given to animals. GHB has been hypothesized to induce this effect via the postsynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid B (GABA B ) receptor. We sought to test this hypothesis by examining the affinity of GABA B agonists and antagonists for the [ 3 H]GHB binding site, the affinity of GHB and a GHB antagonist for the [ 3 H]GABA B binding site, and the effect of guanine nucleotides and pertussis toxin on both, using autoradiographic binding assays. GHB and its antagonist, NCS 382, did not compete for [ 3 H]GABA B binding, nor did (-)-baclofen or the [ 3 H]GABA B antagonists, CGP 35348 or SCH 50911, compete for [ 3 H]GHB binding; however, the GABA B agonist 3-amino-propylphosphinic acid (3-APPA), and the GABA B antagonists phaclofen and 2-hydroxysaclofen (2-OH saclofen) did show a weak affinity for [ 3 H]GHB binding in frontal cortex. GTP and the nonhydrolyzable GTP analogues, GTPγS and Gpp(NH)p, depressed [ 3 H]GABA B binding throughout the brain, but increased [ 3 H]GHB binding in frontal cortex and thalamus, those regions involved in GHB-induced absence seizures. Pertussis toxin significantly depressed [ 3 H]GABA B binding throughout the brain, but attenuated [ 3 H]GHB binding only in frontal cortex, and to a lesser degree than [ 3 H]GABA B binding. The guanine nucleotide-induced changes in [ 3 H]GHB and [ 3 H]GABA B binding were due to a change in K D for both. Moreover, GTPγS reversed the ability of 3-APPA, phaclofen, and 2-OH saclofen to compete for [ 3 H]GHB binding. These data do not support the hypothesis that GHB acts through the postsynaptic GABA B receptor to produce absence seizures. Rather, they raise the possibility either that the [ 3 H]GHB binding site may be an isoform of the presynaptic GABA B receptor or that an independent GHB site is operative in the GHB model of absence seizures.
Sulfonated polyisobutylene telechelic ionomers. XIV. Viscoelastic behavior of concentrated solutions in nonpolar solvents

The effect of molecular variables upon the dynamic viscoelastic behavior of solutions of sulfonated polyisobutylene telechelic ionomers in nonpolar solvents has been investigated. Intermolecular association of the ionic end groups in nonpolar media results in the formation of a transient ionic network which displays a viscous response at low frequencies and an elastic response at high frequencies. The frequency of the transition from viscous behavior to elastic behavior, as well as the plateau storage modulus, is dependent upon molecular variables such as architecture, molecular weight, neutralizing cation, and extent of neutralization. Variables which affect the strength of the ionic interactions, such as temperature and the type of solvent, also influence the viscoelastic response. Solutions of ionomers neutralized with cations of Groups IA and IIA, such as potassium and calcium, behave elastically over most of the experimentally accessible frequency range, while those neutralized with transition metals, such as zinc, display viscous flow over a rather wide range at low frequencies. As in previous studies of dilute solution viscosity behavior, the threearm star trifunctional species was found to form a more extensive network in nonpolar solvents than the linear difunctional species at equivalent concentrations. The failure of time–temperature superposition indicates that these solutions are thermoheologically complex.
Nomenclature for tracer kinetics.

Zusammenfassung This report, written by the Task Group on Tracer Kinetics of the ICRU, is concerned with the nomenclature, concepts and procedures used in medical tracer studies. It aims at achieving a certain measure of uniformity in their usage. To that effect, it reviews the basic concepts of tracer kinetics and proposes a set of definitions and a unified system of symbols. Dieser Bericht, der von der Arbeitsgruppe fur Tracerkinetik der ICRU verfasst wurde, beschaftigt sich mit der Nomenklatur, den Konzepten und den Methoden, die in medizinischen Traceruntersuchungen verwendet werden. Sein Ziel ist es, eine grossere Vereinheitlichung zu erreichen. Zu diesem Zweck wird eine Ubersicht uber die grundlegenden Kozepte der Tracerkinetik gegeben und eine Reihe von Definitionen und ein einheitliches System von Symbolen vorgeschlagen.
A model of sensitivity and resistance to histone deacetylase inhibitors in diffuse large B cell lymphoma: Role of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While the initial treatment strategy is highly effective, relapse occurs in 40% of cases. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are a promising class of anti-cancer drugs but their single agent efficacy against relapsed DLBCL has been variable, ranging from few complete/partial responses to some stable disease. However, most patients showed no response to HDACi monotherapy for unknown reasons. Here we show that sensitivity and resistance to the hydroxamate HDACi, PXD101, can be modeled in DLBCL cell lines. Sensitivity is characterized by G 2/M arrest and apoptosis and resistance by reversible G 1 growth arrest. These responses to PXD101 are independent of several negative prognostic indicators such as DLBCL subtype, BCL2 and MYC co-expression, and p53 mutation, suggesting that HDACi might be used effectively against highly aggressive DLBCL tumors if they are combined with other therapeutics that overcome HDACi resistance. Our investigation of mechanisms underlying HDACi resistance showed that cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CKIs), p21 and p27, are upregulated by PXD101 in a sustained fashion in resistant cell lines concomitant with decreased activity of the cyclin E/cdk2 complex and decreased Rb phosphorylation. PXD101 treatment results in increased association of CKI with the cyclin E/cdk2 complex in resistant cell lines but not in a sensitive line, indicating that the CKIs play a key role in G 1 arrest. The results suggest several treatment strategies that might increase the efficacy of HDACi against aggressive DLBCL.
Spitzer Space Telescope Sequencing Operations Software, Strategies, and Lessons Learned

The Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) was launched in August, 2003, and renamed to the Spitzer Space Telescope in 2004. Two years of observing the universe in the wavelength range from 3 to 180 microns has yielded enormous scientific discoveries. Since this magnificent observatory has a limited lifetime, maximizing science viewing efficiency (ie, maximizing time spent executing activities directly related to science observations) was the key operational objective. The strategy employed for maximizing science viewing efficiency was to optimize spacecraft flexibility, adaptability, and use of observation time. The selected approach involved implementation of a multi-engine sequencing architecture coupled with nondeterministic spacecraft and science execution times. This approach, though effective, added much complexity to uplink operations and sequence development. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) manages Spitzer s operations. As part of the uplink process, Spitzer s Mission Sequence Team (MST) was tasked with processing observatory inputs from the Spitzer Science Center (SSC) into efficiently integrated, constraint-checked, and modeled review and command products which accommodated the complexity of non-deterministic spacecraft and science event executions without increasing operations costs. The MST developed processes, scripts, and participated in the adaptation of multi-mission core software to enable rapid processing of complex sequences. The MST was also tasked with developing a Downlink Keyword File (DKF) which could instruct Deep Space Network (DSN) stations on how and when to configure themselves to receive Spitzer science data. As MST and uplink operations developed, important lessons were learned that should be applied to future missions, especially those missions which employ command-intensive operations via a multi-engine sequence architecture.
The impact of direct marketing appeals on charitable marketing effectiveness

Building on behavioral decision research, this article provides guidelines to charitable marketing managers regarding the effect of charitable direct marketing appeals on donor decision judgments. Several charitable direct mail appeals (factors) were empirically tested simultaneously in a factorial experimental design involving 18,144 potential donors to determine how donor decision strategies influenced choice judgments about whether to give and estimation judgments about how much to give. The results indicate that suggested anchors and framing influence response rate (choice) but not size of gift. Reference information (factual/statistical and narrative/experiential) influences size of gift (estimation) but not response rate. Implications for charitable marketing managers are discussed.
Neutron elastic scattering at 11 MeV and the isospin dependence of the neutron-nucleus optical potential

Abstract Elastic scattering of 11 MeV neutrons from Mg, Al, S, Ca, V, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Nb, 92,96,98, 100Mo, In, 120Sn, Ho, Ta, 206Pb, Pb and Bi have been measured with the Ohio University tandem Van de Graaff accelerator. The required neutrons were produced by the 2H(d, n)3He reaction. Standard pulsed beam time-of-flight techniques were employed with a multiple detector system which included five large area liquid scintillators and plastic scintillator monitor. Measurements of the incident flux at zero degree were used to normalize the differential cross sections. Energy resolution was approximately 360 keV (FWHM). The measured cross sections were corrected for dead time, detector efficiency, attenuation, multiple scattering, finite geometry, neutron source anisotropy, contaminants and compound elastic contribution. Relative and normalization uncertainties in the measured cross section are 3–5% and approximately 3.5 % respectively. A search for an average set of optical model potential parameters based solely on the measured (n, n) data for the isotopically pure samples and for which inelastic contributions to the elastic data are insignificant yield isopin dependent potential strengths, V R = [ 47.14−22.50(N−Z) A ] MeV and W D = [ 12.16−2.03(N−Z) A ] MeV .
Critical care in an emergency department

A one year review of resuscitation in an emergency department (ED) was conducted. In the stabilization room (SR) within the ED at Hennepin County Medical Center, 852 cases were treated in the year ending July 31, 1978. There were 166 deaths in the SR (19.5%) overall, and 141 (47.9%) and 16 (5.3%) for cardiac and trauma cases, respectively. The 32 fatal cases of blunt trauma (six in the SR, 10 within 24 hours, and 16 late deaths) were reviewed and assigned an injury severity score (ISS). Of these, 12 deaths were unrelated to central nervous system causes. These had an average ISS of 42.8.
Experimental determination of the deposition coefficient of small cirrus‐like ice crystals near −50°C

[1] Several small ice particles were observed to grow and evaporate in a quadrupole electrodynamic levitation cell at temperatures between −40 and −60°C and variable supersaturation. The particle mass was traced throughout each experiment by analysis of the electrical (“springpoint”) boundaries for stable levitation. Measured growth of each particle was compared with that calculated from a standard particle-growth model. The small particle sizes and long durations of the experiments provided great sensitivity to the particle-mean deposition coefficient (αm). Suitable agreement between the measured and modeled growth histories was obtainable only upon using very small deposition coefficients: e.g., 0.0045 < αm < 0.0075, with αm ∼ 0.006 being the most-likely value for a representative particle growing at −50°C. This finding of such low deposition coefficients suggests that cirrus-cloud simulations need to account for the strong influence that the surface-kinetic resistance exerts on the vapor growth of ice at atmospherically low temperatures.
Biodegradation control of magnesium-calcium biomaterial via adjusting surface integrity by synergistic cutting-burnishing

Magnesium-calcium (MgCa) alloys are very promising orthopedic biomaterials with biodegradability and suitable biomechanical properties. However, the high corrosion rate of Mg-based alloys in human body environment remains as a big challenge for their successful development as biomaterials. In this study, synergistic cutting-burnishing was developed to control the degradation rate of the novel MgCa0.8 (wt. %) biomaterial by adjusting surface integrity. In-vitro immersion tests were performed in simulated body fluid to measure degradation kinetics of the processed samples. Morphology and elemental composition of the corroded surface layers were also studied. The synergistic process was successful to control biodegradation rate. This enabling process may manufacture biodegradable MgCa0.8 implants with tailored degradation rate to fit various orthopedic applications.
Designing Lightweight Software Architectures for Smart Environments

Smart environment applications have gained a lot of attention and acceptance from the community. For this reason, many design and evaluation efforts target these applications. However, these applications rely on a software architecture that driven by a well-designed middleware. In this paper we propose design and evaluation requirements for smart environment software architectures and demonstrate how these requirements can be met with a simple, lightweight publish-subscribe design paradigm. We describe our CLM middleware that follows these requirements and illustrate its extensive use as part of the CASAS smart home system.
A preliminary analysis of smooth roll crushers

Abstract A brief review is given of the existing treatments of the fundamental description of this type of crusher. There does not appear to be any quantitative theoretical treatment of power requirement as a function of material properties. A model is developed to predict the size distribution resulting from any feed size distribution, based on the characteristic breakage parameters of a material between smooth rolls, and on the probability of sizes near the gap passing through with only a fraction broken. The characteristic parameters were measured for a coal and hard stone, and the validity of the model demonstrated.
Charging of Molecules during Transport

The possibility that a single molecule can acquire charge during steady-state transport is an open issue. We report first-principles calculations in a range of configurations of certain molecules and conclude the following. When a molecule is strongly coupled to the electrodes, charging is not sustainable. On the other hand, by using variable-length tunnel barriers (insulating tethers) one can enable and control charging. In particular, by using different combinations of “tethers”, we demonstrate the possibility of charging by a single electron, sustainable over a wide bias range, and also the possibility of continuous linear charging when a gate voltage is applied.
Applying the Cox proportional hazards model for analysis of latency data with interval censoring.

The latency time of an infectious disease is defined as the time from infection to disease onset. This paper applies the proportional hazards model to estimate the effect of covariates on latency when the time of disease onset is exact or right-censored but the time of infection is interval-censored. We use a Monte Carlo EM algorithm to estimate parameters of the joint distribution of infection times and latency times. At each EM iteration, exact infection times are multiply imputed from the density determined by the parameters of the infection and latency time distributions. The methodology is tested using a simulation study and is applied to data from a cohort of haemophiliacs with HIV disease.
Management of Traumatic Optic Neuropathy With Coexistent Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Report

Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) causes blindness of varied severity and occurs infrequently as a complication of closed head injury. A case is presented of TON that occurred in a patient who suffered complete T4 paraplegia from a motorcycle accident but in whom no severe head injury took place. In this case, high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone was begun for the spinal cord injury and repeated 24 hours later for the TON. Vision improved from near total blindness to 20/400 in the left eye (OS) and 20/130 in the right eye (OD). Two weeks later, however, the patient's vision suddenly worsened. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using fat suppression confirmed a lesion along the optic nerve consistent with TON. A third course of methylprednisolone again led to improved vision. The steroids were then tapered orally over 2 weeks and the patient had no further relapses. Moderate to severely impaired vision of 20/ 400 OS and 20/130 OD continues to interfere with the patient's function and spinal cord rehabilitation program. It was concluded that a steroid taper was important in maintaining initial visual gains in this case. Awareness of TON and careful attention to the patient's clinical course can minimize deficit and maximize functional outcomes.
On the compensation effect

Arrhenius equation is popularly used to relate the change in the rate constant with temperature. The linearized form of Arrhenius equation has often been used to establish a relation between InA andE for a series of related reactions. Occurrence of such a compensating behavior between InA andE has been widely reported in the literature. The validity of the compensation effect has been heatedly debated. Compensation effect can arise from computational artifact or can arise from various chemical factors. This depends entirely on the data set used to establish the compensation behavior. This article stresses the importance of statistical analysis and the use of simple Arrhenius plots to draw conclusions regarding the occurrence of compensation effect. With the help of a few examples, some checkpoints to draw conclusions regarding the occurrence of true or false compensation effect are suggested.
Mild traumatic brain injury defined by Glasgow Coma Scale: Is it really mild?

AbstractIntroduction: Conventionally, a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 13–15 defines mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The aim of this study was to identify the factors that predict progression on repeat head computed tomography (RHCT) and neurosurgical intervention (NSI) in patients categorized as mild TBI with intracranial injury (intracranial haemorrhage and/or skull fracture).Methods: This study performed a retrospective chart review of all patients with traumatic brain injury who presented to a level 1 trauma centre. Patients with blunt TBI, an intracranial injury and admission GCS of 13–15 without anti-platelet and anti-coagulation therapy were included. The outcome measures were: progression on RHCT and need for neurosurgical intervention (craniotomy and/or craniectomy).Results: A total of 1800 patients were reviewed, of which 876 patients were included. One hundred and fifteen (13.1%) patients had progression on RHCT scan. Progression on RHCT was 8-times more likely in patients with subdural ...
Whatever Happened to the Early Bird Special

In the mid to late 1990s and as recently as 2003, the term “arly bird special” (EBS) was not limited to the breakfast counter at a local diner. In fact, the EBS, defined as planned physical activit...
In-register homodimers of smooth muscle tropomyosin.

Gizzard smooth muscle tropomyosin dimer molecules were dissociated by guanidinium chloride and reassociated by dialysis against 1 M NaCl. Several properties of the protein were changed by this treatment. There was a large decrease in tropomyosin's low-salt viscosity, owing to reduced end-to-end polymerization, the helix unfolding profile changed from a one-step to a two-step process, and the ability to form intramolecular, interchain, disulfide-cross-linked homodimers increased dramatically. Thus, the native molecule, though to exist predominantly as by the beta gamma heterodimer which cannot form disulfide cross-links [Sanders, C., Burtnick, L.D., & Smillie, L. B. (1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 12774-12778], reassembles, after dissociation, to form predominantly parallel, in-register beta beta and gamma gamma homodimers able to form disulfide cross-links. This suggests that the physical properties, including the end-to-end interaction, of gizzard tropomyosin homodimers differ considerably from those of the heterodimer. This is a first step toward a molecular understanding of the end-to-end interaction of smooth muscle tropomyosin.
Serum lactate and base deficit suggest inadequate resuscitation of patients with burn injuries : Application of a point-of-care laboratory instrument

Urinary output of 30 to 50 ml/hr and mean arterial pressure of more than 70 mm Hg continue to be the yardsticks by which patients with burn injuries are resuscitated. We designed this prospective, descriptive study to compare these parameters with serial base deficit and serum lactate values, which have been found to be sensitive indicators of adequate fluid resuscitation in trauma patients. The sample group consisted of 53 patients, consecutively admitted to the burn intensive care unit, who had 15% or more total body surface area burns. No changes in resuscitation protocol were implemented. Within the 48-hour period after admission, 2 ml heparinized venous blood samples were collected and analyzed every 2 to 4 hours, and vital signs, urinary output, fluid type, and volume administered were documented each hour. Urinary output and mean arterial pressure were maintained at more than 30 ml/hr and more than 70 mm Hg, respectively. Partial correlations between the traditional resuscitation variables and serum lactate and base deficit were low. On average, serum lactate and base deficit remained abnormally high during the study period. These new parameters may be used to improve the fidelity with which burn shock resuscitation is undertaken. Further studies of these parameters and how they may be used as endpoints in fluid resuscitation are needed.
Recent progress in tumor pH targeting nanotechnology

pH-sensitive polymeric micelles and nanogels have recently been developed to target slightly acidic extracellular pH environment of solid tumors. The pH targeting approach is regarded as a more general strategy than conventional specific tumor cell surface targeting approaches, because the acidic tumor microclimate is most common in solid tumors. When nanosystems are combined with triggered release mechanisms by endosomal or lysosomal acidity plus endosomolytic capability, the nanocarriers demonstrated to overcome multidrug resistance of various tumors. This review highlights recent progress of the pH-sensitive nanotechnology developed in Bae research group.
Arthur Howard Robinson, 1915–2004

Perhaps no single individual has had a greater impact on defining American cartography of the twentieth century. During his career, Arthur Howard Robinson defined the field of cartography and firml...