cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The arrangement of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes in human lymphoproliferative disorders

Publisher Summary The recognition that paraproteins derived from patients with multiple myeloma represent homogeneous immunoglobulins was an indispensable step in understanding the structural and functional aspects of immunoglobulin molecules and antibodies. As new techniques have been developed, they have been applied to the study of malignant lymphocyte populations to provide insights concerning the functions of the normal immune system, as well as to provide answers of interest to the clinicians caring for patients. Although the ability to distinguish clonal B and T cell subpopulations by surface phenotype analysis was a major advance, monoclonal antibody studies are not always conclusive. Recently, there have been dramatic advances in the understanding of the vertebrate immune system that have followed the application of recombinant DNA technology to the study of mouse and human malignancies of the B lymphocyte/plasma cell and T lymphocyte lineages. An analysis of the arrangement of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes and the rearrangement of these genes as B and T cells mature has provided answers for the two most critical questions that immunologists have addressed over the past two decades: the mechanisms used to generate antibody diversity, and the nature of the antigen-specific T cell receptor. The rules of DNA rearrangement and transcriptional regulation learned by studying B and T cell tumors have proved of great value to the hematologist/oncologist in dealing with patients with lymphoid neoplasms. This chapter focuses on the insights that have been obtained by applying molecular genetic analyses of the structure and arrangement of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes to the study of human lymphoid proliferations.
Breast cancer statistics, 2015: Convergence of incidence rates between black and white women

In this article, the American Cancer Society provides an overview of female breast cancer statistics in the United States, including data on incidence, mortality, survival, and screening. Approximately 231,840 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 40,290 breast cancer deaths are expected to occur among US women in 2015. Breast cancer incidence rates increased among non-Hispanic black (black) and Asian/Pacific Islander women and were stable among non-Hispanic white (white), Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native women from 2008 to 2012. Although white women have historically had higher incidence rates than black women, in 2012, the rates converged. Notably, during 2008 through 2012, incidence rates were significantly higher in black women compared with white women in 7 states, primarily located in the South. From 1989 to 2012, breast cancer death rates decreased by 36%, which translates to 249,000 breast cancer deaths averted in the United States over this period. This decrease in death rates was evident in all racial/ethnic groups except American Indians/Alaska Natives. However, the mortality disparity between black and white women nationwide has continued to widen; and, by 2012, death rates were 42% higher in black women than in white women. During 2003 through 2012, breast cancer death rates declined for white women in all 50 states; but, for black women, declines occurred in 27 of 30 states that had sufficient data to analyze trends. In 3 states (Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin), breast cancer death rates in black women were stable during 2003 through 2012. Widening racial disparities in breast cancer mortality are likely to continue, at least in the short term, in view of the increasing trends in breast cancer incidence rates in black women.
Neo-Adjuvant Cisplatin, 5-Fluorouracil and high-dose Leucovorin for advanced head and neck cancer : response, toxicity, survival and comparison with historical controls

The role of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) remains controversial. While results from randomized trials of neo-adjuvant combination chemotherapy have confirmed the association between response and treatment outcome, an increase in survival has not been reported. Critical review of latter studies, however, reveals flaws which limit the value of their findings [1]. An improvement in the survival of patients who receive neo-adjuvant therapy for advanced SCCHN may not however be confirmed, until the rate of complete response is consistently over 50 %.
Comparison of current staging systems and a novel staging system for uterine leiomyosarcoma.

Objectives Uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) was traditionally staged by modified 1988 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging criteria for endometrial adenocarcinoma. Contemporary methods of staging include the 2009 FIGO system for uterine LMS and the 2010 American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) soft tissue sarcoma system. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of these 3 staging systems and a novel system in predicting disease-specific survival for patients with uterine LMS. Methods Patients, evaluated at our institution with uterine LMS from 1976 to 2009, were identified. Stage was assigned retrospectively based on operative and pathology reports. Staging systems performance was compared using confidence indices. Results We identified 244 patients with uterine LMS with sufficient information to be staged by all 3 systems. For each staging method, lower stage was associated with significantly improved disease-specific survival, P Conclusions Uterine LMS remains a clinically aggressive malignancy. Size and grade provided accurate prognostic information for patients with disease confined to the uterus and/or cervix. Patients with small, low-grade uterine LMS do not benefit from adjuvant therapy.
SPIN MODEL EQUATIONS, CONNECTIONS WITH INTEGRABLE SYSTEMS AND APPLICATIONS TO MAGNETIC VORTICES

It is shown how the Landau–Lifshitz model can be related to a nonlinear Schrodinger equation. In two space dimensions, the continuous Heisenberg model and more generally, the nonlinear sigma models are described by gauged Cherns–Simons field theories.
Evaluation and Technology of an Emollient Suppository Base

A requisite in the medicinal treatment of local conditions involving the anorectal area is for an emollient, nongreasy, protective application that would favor a sustained release of incorporated medicinals in addition to maintaining the mucous epithelial lining of the area in its normal hydrated condition. Utilizing Lantrol, a non-sensitizing liquid fraction of wool fat, as the major component, a new suppository base has been formulated which possesses, in addition to the foregoing attributes, a high degree of pharmaceutical elegance, adequate plastic range, and is compatible with the great majority of pharmaceuticals commonly incorporated in suppositories. Techniques utilized to determine rate of pharmaceutical release show a desirable prolonged release of medication. Sensitivity testing has also been accomplished. While the base itself is not water soluble it is dispersible in body fluids, and warm water, forming a water-in-oil emulsion that spreads smoothly over the skin forming a protective, partially occlusive, nongreasy film. No difficulties were noted in manufacture, the base sets rapidly and stabilizes quickly.
A Role for Iron-Sulfur Clusters in the Regulation of Transcription Factor Yap5-dependent High Iron Transcriptional Responses in Yeast

Yeast respond to increased cytosolic iron by activating the transcription factor Yap5 increasing transcription of CCC1, which encodes a vacuolar iron importer. Using a genetic screen to identify genes involved in Yap5 iron sensing, we discovered that a mutation in SSQ1, which encodes a mitochondrial chaperone involved in iron-sulfur cluster synthesis, prevented expression of Yap5 target genes. We demonstrated that mutation or reduced expression of other genes involved in mitochondrial iron-sulfur cluster synthesis (YFH1, ISU1) prevented induction of the Yap5 response. We took advantage of the iron-dependent catalytic activity of Pseudaminobacter salicylatoxidans gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase expressed in yeast to measure changes in cytosolic iron. We determined that reductions in iron-sulfur cluster synthesis did not affect the activity of cytosolic gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase. We show that loss of activity of the cytosolic iron-sulfur cluster assembly complex proteins or deletion of cytosolic glutaredoxins did not reduce expression of Yap5 target genes. These results suggest that the high iron transcriptional response, as well as the low iron transcriptional response, senses iron-sulfur clusters.
The challenges of GALEX

The Galaxy Evolution Explorer, a NASA small explorer mission, is performing the first all-sky, deep imaging and spectroscopic surveys in the space ultraviolet. The prime goal of GALEX is to study star formation in galaxies and its evolution with time. Now in its fourth year of operations the emphasis of the mission is changing from completing the primary science goals set at launch to servicing the astronomical community with a guest investigator program that uses 50% or more of the available observing time. We outline here mission operations, describe some of the challenges the GALEX team has surmounted, and some of the changes needed to accomplish the goals of the extended mission.
TIME-DELAY INTERFEROMETRY FOR SPACE-BASED GRAVITATIONAL WAVE SEARCHES

Ground-based, equal-arm-length laser interferometers are being built to measure high-frequency astrophysical graviatational waves. Because of the arm-length equality, laser light experiences the same delay in each arm and thus phase or frequency noise from the laser itself precisely cancels at the photodetector.
A parallel two-sided contact algorithm in ALE3D

A scalable parallel algorithm for treating two-sided contact in a finite-element multi-physics code (ALE3D) is presented. This method assumes that proximity between the two sides changes continuously, and uses a local search to update proximity relations each cycle. The evolving communication pattern is treated entirely by local, nearest-neighbor communication; there is no global communication. Opening and closing voids, overlapping and intersecting contact surfaces, and a number of other special features are supported.
Distribution of somatic sensory and active-movement neuronal discharge properties in the MI-SI cortical border area in the rat.

The rat somatosensory (SI) cortex contains a precise map of the cutaneous periphery, yet its rostromedial edge, which includes part of the fore- and hind paw representation, has been reported to functionally overlap with the electrically excitable primary motor (MI) cortex. Thus, the MI cortex in the rat contains two subregions: (i) rostrally, the "MI-agranular" cortex (i.e., "typical" MI cortex), and (ii) caudally, the "MI-SI-granular" cortex (i.e., the MI-SI overlap). The aim of this study was to assess the degree of overlap in the physiologic properties of single neurons recorded across the MI-SI boundary zone in awake, freely moving rats. Computer techniques were used to characterize both somatosensory receptive fields (cutaneous or "passive joint-manipulation") and discharge correlates of active limb movement in these MI-agranular and MI-SI-granular subregions of the MI. "Active-movement" units were defined as those which discharged strongly in correlation with specific limb movements, but in a manner which could not be predicted by their observable somatosensory properties. Of 92 completely analyzed cells in the MI-SI-granular forepaw region, 86 exhibited specific cutaneous receptive fields on the palmar surface of the forepaw. By contrast with the similarity of these neurons' responses to passive stimulation, they varied markedly in their discharge during active limb movements. For example, many did not respond when their forepaw receptive fields touched the ground during stepping. Furthermore, 31 (of 92) neurons in this region were identified as active-movement, firing in correlation with reaching movements of the forelimb. Seven of these were completely unresponsive to any sensory stimuli, but 24 exhibited an apparent convergence of cutaneous and active-movement properties. Of 86 units recorded in the MI-agranular subregion, 46 responded strongly to passive joint manipulation, but only three responded exclusively to cutaneous stimulation. Twenty-eight (of 86) cells were defined as active-movement, discharging mainly in correlation with forelimb reaching movements. Thus, the active-movement properties of neurons in these two subregions were quite similar, whereas the somatosensory properties were markedly different.
The roles of attention and (un)awareness in SLA: Conceptual replication of N. C. Ellis & Sagarra (2010a) and Leung & Williams (2012)

There is no doubt that attention and (un)awareness in second/foreign language (L2 learning) are two constructs that have permeated, explicitly or implicitly, second language acquisition (SLA) studies since their inception. Indeed, we have witnessed several empirical studies attempting to probe more deeply into the roles of these two constructs in the L2 learning process. Given the challenging methodological issue of eliciting and interpreting data on such internal processes, this paper underscores the importance and benefits of conducting replications of studies investigating both the roles of attention and awareness, or lack thereof, in the L2 learning process. A report on two key SLA studies is provided and several suggestions for replication are made for each study together with their accompanying potential benefits.
The influence relation for ternary voting games

Abstract Although simple games are very useful in modeling decision-making bodies, they allow each voter only two choices: to support or oppose a measure. This restriction ignores that voters often can abstain from voting, which is effectively different from the other two options. Following the approach of Felsenthal and Machover ( 1997 ), for modeling voting with abstentions, we will look at the extension of the influence relation for simple games to the Ternary Voting Game given in Tchantcho et al. ( 2008 ). That paper showed that the influence relation is ordinally equivalent to the classical Banzhaf and Shapley–Shubik indices in a class of games called weakly equitable. In this paper, we will show that this result does hold true for all Ternary Voting Games. Also we will show that adding a third voting option allows for asymmetric distribution of power that cannot be achieved by any simple game.
The Psychological Effects of Skin Color on African Americans' Self-Esteem

Abstract Skin color distinction is a well-kept secret in African American communities. This paper analyzes the psychological effects of this phenomenon using the framework of symbolic inter-actionism and “interpersonal theory.” It suggests that the hue of one's skin tends to have a psychological effect on the self-esteem of African Americans, although that assertion is not borne out in the literature. Strategies are proposed for addressing skin color discrimination with persons with very dark skin.
A blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of the Janus kinase inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel®) in client-owned dogs with atopic dermatitis

Background Pruritus is the hallmark clinical sign of atopic dermatitis (AD) in dogs. Preliminary study results suggest that oclacitinib, a selective Janus kinase inhibitor, could reduce pruritus and associated inflammatory skin lesions in dogs with AD. Hypothesis/Objectives The objective was to evaluate efficacy and safety of oclacitinib (Apoquel®) for the control of AD in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Animals Clinicians at 18 specialty clinics enrolled client-owned dogs (n = 299) with a history of chronic AD. Methods Dogs were randomized to receive either oclacitinib (0.4–0.6 mg/kg twice daily for 14 days and then once daily for up to 112 days) or an excipient-matched placebo. Owners assessed visual analog scale (VAS) scores of pruritus on days 0, 1, 2, 7, 14, 28, 56, 84 and 112. Clinicians assessed Canine AD Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-02) scores on days 0, 14, 28, 56, 84 and 112. Results On days 1, 2, 7, 14 and 28, oclacitinib-treated dogs had a 29.5, 42.3, 61.5, 66.7 and 47.4% reduction from baseline in owner-assessed pruritus scores, respectively, compared with a 6.5, 9.1, 6.5, 3.9 and 10.4% reduction in placebo-treated dogs. On days 14 and 28, dermatologists recorded a 48.4% reduction in CADESI-02 scores in oclacitinib-treated dogs compared with a 1.7% reduction and a 3.6% increase in placebo-treated dogs. After day 28, >86% of all placebo-treated dogs had moved to an open-label study, making between-group comparisons biased. Differences were significant at all time points assessed (P < 0.0001). Conclusions and clinical importance Oclacitinib provided rapid, effective and safe control of AD, with substantial improvement in VAS and CADESI-02 scores.
Negotiating 'Plainness' and Gender: Dancing and Apparel at Christian Weddings in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe, 1913-1944

This article analyzes the phenomena of dancing and wedding apparel in weddings of rural members of an unusual Protestant denomination of Anabaptist origins in Matabeleland, colonial Zimbabwe. The focus is on gendered aspects of African Christian adaptation of mission teaching amongst Ndebele members of the Brethren in Christ Church. The church in North America was firm at home on the matter of dancing (it was forbidden), and internally conflicted regarding men's garb. In the decades preceding World War II, African members of the church embraced fashionable dress for grooms and dancing at wedding feasts as common practice at BICC weddings. However, in a gendered pattern reflecting Ndebele, colonial and mission ideas of women's subjection, African women's bridal wear adhered to church teaching on Plainness, while African men's did not.
A time-of-flight spectrometer for neutrons from about 150 mev to 1 gev

Abstract A modified version of a time-of-flight spectrometer developed previously for neutrons from 1 to 500 MeV achieves a substantial reduction in backgrounds and permits extension of the upper energy limit to 1 GeV or perhaps higher. Basically, the spectrometer measures the time-of-flight of a neutron scattered elastically between two scintillation counters. The addition of a counter telescope to detect the recoil-proton from a neutron-proton elastic scattering event in the first detector results in a substantial reduction in backgrounds from competing inelastic neutron-carbon and neutron-proton reactions and from chance coincidences; however, since the recoil protons must escape the first detector, the spectrometer becomes increasingly inefficient below about 175 MeV. We have used the modified spectrometer to measure the neutron spectrum at 0° from beryllium bombarded by the circulating beam of 724 MeV protons in the 184″ cyclotron at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory. This measurement demonstrates the ability of the spectrometer to measure neutrons to about 724 MeV and confirms the calculated energy resolution of the spectrometer.
Age, Sex and Size of Dead Tawny Owls Strix aluco Found During Winter Famine 2006

From January to May 2006, 130 Tawny Owls were reported dead along the coastal areas of southern Norway. Of these, 79 were collected for a museum collection, most from the counties Vest-Agder (27), Aust-Agder (37), Telemark (9) and Vestfold (4). One owl was found starving, and was nurtured back to life. Of 67 sexable specimens, there were 34 males and 33 females. Nine of the birds were ringed, 5 females, 3 males and one unsexed bird. Five ringed owls were juveniles (in their second calendar year), while four ringed were old adults (calendar year 6–12). Of 79 aged owls, 51 (64.6%) were juveniles, while 28 (35.4%) were adults (third calendar year or older). Weight and body measurements were taken from all individuals as far as the carcasses allowed. The famine followed a very good breeding year of Tawny Owls along the southern coast of Norway in 2005, with high numbers of wood mice Apodemus sylvaticus until frost and snowfall in November. The following winter was cold, followed by heavy snowfall on 20–21 Jan...
Detection of Salmonella enteritidis in Experimentally Infected Laying Hens by Culturing Pools of Egg Contents

Two experiments were conducted to determine whether Salmonella enteritidis could be detected efficiently in pooled samples of the contents of eggs laid by experimentally infected hens. In Experiment 1, groups of laying hens were orally inoculated with either 10(4) or 10(6) S. enteritidis cells. In Experiment 2, one-third of the hens in each group were orally inoculated with 10(6) S. enteritidis cells. At 2 wk postinoculation, culturing egg pools yielded positive results at frequencies similar to those obtained by culturing fecal samples, culturing internal organs, or testing for specific serum antibodies. Culturing fecal samples detected a higher percentage of exposed hens than egg pool culturing at 1 and 3 wk, and serum antibody tests were superior at 3 and 4 wk. In Experiment 1, more than 46% of the hens inoculated with 10(6) S. enteritidis cells laid at least one contaminated egg during the 2nd wk postinoculation. In Experiment 2, over 34% of the hens produced at least one contaminated egg during the 2nd wk postinoculation, but very few contaminated egg pools were identified during the 3rd and 4th wk. Bacteriological culturing of pooled egg contents for S. enteritidis, therefore, can apparently provide an effective method for assessing the potential public health threat posed by a flock.
Machinery Selection and Crop Planning on a State Farm in Iraq

Iraq has established state farms to serve as demonstration units for the introduction of new technology, to produce improved seed, and to produce agricultural products. This study focuses on the Nai State Farm as a case study of an important set of problems facing state farms in Iraq. These problems involve machinery selection, machinery management, crop selection, labor management, and profitability. A diverse machinery complement on the Nai farm has led to difficulties with maintenance, spare parts, and tractor-implement compatibility. There also appears to be an excessive number of machines for the land area under cultivation. Crop selection has not been coordinated effectively with machinery selection and labor availability. The crop mix frequently possesses uneven seasonal labor and machinery requirements. Thus, peak resource demand is much greater than average demand and creates problems of labor and machinery utilization. Failure of the Nai Farm to produce profit also has reduced its effectiveness as a demonstration farm.
Evidence That the Association Between Hypernasality and 22q11 Deletion Syndrome Still Goes Undetected: A Case Study

This manuscript presents a case study that underscores the need for increasing awareness that hypernasality, velopharyngeal insufficiency, and a number of other anomalies may be related through the...
Nations and Novels: Cultural Politics and Literary Use

A comparative analysis of 184 Canadian and American popular and high-culture novels suggests the inadequacy of the traditional understanding of national literary differences as reflecting unique national characters. I present an alternative understanding of national literatures that considers variation in production contexts and literary use across types of literature. In brief I argue that popular-culture novels differ little between the Canada and the U.S. precisely because they are shaped by similar massmarket strategies and read by similar audiences. My data on the cross-national differences in the timing and content of canonical literatures, on the other hand, suggests that such novels have a highly symbolic value tied to the development of the nation-state and are shaped by elite interests in national identify construction. The idea of national literatures, and the icons of one's own national literature, are a given part of modem cultural repertoires. Educated people are expected to be familiar with the Great Books1 of their own country and to have a basic sense of the canon in countries of similar literary heritage. State-mandated school courses generally expose even the less educated to the national classics. The phenomenon of national literatures has traditionally been understood as
Genotype and Ancestry Modulate Brain's DAT Availability in Healthy Humans

The dopamine transporter (DAT) is a principal regulator of dopaminergic neurotransmission and its gene (the SLC6A3) is a strong biological candidate gene for various behavioral- and neurological disorders. Intense investigation of the link between the SLC6A3 polymorphisms and behavioral phenotypes yielded inconsistent and even contradictory results. Reliance on objective brain phenotype measures, for example, those afforded by brain imaging, might critically improve detection of DAT genotype-phenotype association. Here, we tested the relationship between the DAT brain availability and the SLC6A3 genotypes using an aggregate sample of 95 healthy participants of several imaging studies. These studies employed positron emission tomography (PET) with [11C]cocaine wherein the DAT availability was estimated as Bmax/Kd; while the genotype values were obtained on two repeat polymorphisms - 3-UTR- and intron 8- VNTRs. The main findings are the following: 1) both polymorphisms analyzed as single genetic markers and in combination (haplotype) modulate DAT density in midbrain; 2) ethnic background and age influence the strength of these associations; and 3) age-related changes in DAT availability differ in the 3-UTR and intron8 – genotype groups.
Reactor kinetics for multi-region multi-fuel reactors

Abstract On the basis of two-group diffusion theory the inhour and kinetic equations are derived for a reactor containing a different fissionable material in each of its two regions. The method of small perturbations is used in the derivation. The results are compared with inhour and kinetic equations that would be obtained by homogenizing the materials from both regions throughout the reactor. Methods for computing the parameters occurring in the equations are indicated.
Creating and Disseminating Knowledge Among Organizational Scholars: The Role of Special Issues

Special issues of scholarly journals have become more common during the last decade of management research. We review this trend and assess the effectiveness of special issues for knowledge dissemination. Methods include interviews with journal editors, compiling data on time to publication and on impact and quality of special issues for five mainstream management journals, and a case study chronicling the creation of the Organization Science special issue on "Knowledge, Knowing, and Organizations." The findings show that journal special issue articles appear to be published more quickly than regular issue articles (time to publication), and for three of the five journals there is a significant difference in impact (measured as citation counts per article) when special and regular issue articles are compared. Further, we find evidence of greater variation in the quality of special issue articles compared to regular issue articles, although this reflects special issues publishing exceptional articles rather than the inclusion of substandard ones. The case analysis suggests that a series of preconferences on a common topic prior to a special issue did not appear to impact the type of papers submitted to or published in the special issue. We discuss the role of special issues and preconferences in knowledge development in organization science.
Micromachining of PZT Using Ultrafast Femtosecond Laser

Pb(Zr, Ti)O3 (PZT) is widely used in various actuator and transducers applications. Recently, the emphasis has been on the fabrication of the micro actuation systems using PZT's. Fabrication of the micro components requires evolution of surface features and machining on the micrometer scale. The traditional micromachining of PZT's performed using EDM, ultrasonic milling, sand blasting and Nd:YAG lasers is an difficult, time consuming and multistep process. In this manuscript, we report the results on successful micromachining of hard and soft PZT's using a femtosecond laser micromachining (FLM) system. A comprehensive study was performed on the optimization of the laser parameters causing ablation without any physical microscopic damage. Using these optimized parameters, surface channels with excellent surface quality were machined on both hard and soft PZT's. The piezoelectric properties were found to be unaffected by FLM. Lastly, a 3-dimensional microgear (diameter ∼1.2 mm; teeth size ∼0.2 mm) was fabri...
Low-dose and scatter-free cone-beam CT imaging: A preliminary study

Clinical applications of CBCT imaging are still limited by excessive imaging dose from repeated scans and poor image quality mainly due to scatter contamination. Compressed sensing (CS) reconstruction algorithms have shown promises in recovering faithful signals from low-dose projection data, but do not serve well the needs of accurate CBCT imaging if effective scatter correction is not in place. Scatter can be accurately measured and removed using measurement-based methods. However, in conventional FDK reconstruction, these approaches are considered unpractical since they require multiple scans or moving the beam blocker during the data acquisition to compensate for the inevitable primary loss. In this work, we combine the measurement-based scatter correction and CS-based iterative reconstruction algorithm, such that scatter-free images can be obtained from low-dose data. We lower the CBCT dose by reducing the projection number and inserting lead strips between the x-ray source and the object. The insertion of lead strips also enables scatter measurement on the measured samples inside the strip shadows. CS-based iterative reconstruction is finally carried out to obtain scatter-free and low-dose CBCT images. Simulation studies are designed to optimize the lead strip geometry for a certain dose reduction ratio. After optimization, our approach reduces the CT number error from over 220HU to below 5HU on the Shepp-Logan phantom, with a dose reduction of ~80%. With the same dose reduction and the optimized method parameters, the CT number error is reduced from 242HU to 20HU in the selected region of interest on Catphan©600 phantom.
Raynaud's phenomenon of the lung

To determine if pulmonary vessels develop vasospasm during Raynaud's phenomenon, digital vasospasm was induced by hand immersion in 15 degrees C water (cold pressor test) in 17 subjects, and pulmonary function was measured during the subsequent 120 minutes. Five healthy persons were control subjects, seven subjects had well documented systemic disorders associated with Raynaud's phenomenon (secondary Raynaud's), and five subjects had a history of Raynaud's phenomenon but no evidence of an associated disorder (primary Raynaud's). The only measure of pulmonary function that changed significantly following cold pressor testing was carbon monoxide diffusing capacity. Subjects with primary Raynaud's phenomenon had normal baseline carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (23.7 +/- 4.6 ml/minute/mm Hg) but demonstrated significant decreases (p less than 0.05) at 15 minutes (21.2 +/- 3.5 ml/minute/mm Hg), 45 minutes (19.5 +/- 3.7 ml/minute/mm Hg), and 120 minutes (17.1 +/- 2.1 ml/minute/mm Hg) after cold pressor testing. Subjects with secondary Raynaud's phenomenon had low baseline carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (71 percent predicted) and showed no significant change following cold pressor testing. These findings indicate that digital vasospasm in patients with primary Raynaud's phenomenon is part of a systemic vascular response that includes a decrease in the size of the pulmonary capillary bed.
A preclinical 188Re tumor therapeutic investigation using MORF/cMORF pretargeting and an antiTAG-72 antibody CC49

The utility of MORF/cMORF pretargeting for the radiotherapy of cancer requires further validation in tumored mice before clinical trials. We now report on a therapeutic study in mice pretargeted with MORF-CC49 (an anti-TAG-72 antibody CC49 conjugated with MORF, a phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer) and then targeted by 188Re-cMORF (a 188Re labeled complementary MORF). Before the dose-escalating therapeutic study, a pretargeting study in LS174T tumored mice was performed at tracer levels. By both necropsy and imaging, the tracer study showed that the whole body radioactivity was largely restricted to tumor in the mice pretargeted 48 h earlier with MORF-CC49 and the tumor radioactivity was retained over 90 h. After decay correction, a best-fit to the biodistribution provided the areas under the radioactivity curves (AUCs) used for the radiation dose estimates. The tumor to normal organ AUC ratios in all cases were greater than unity and ranged from 3 (kidneys) to 48 (muscle). Tumor growth was inhibited ...
l-Glutamate conditionally modulates the K+ current of miller glial cells

L-Glutamate inhibits the K+ conductance that dominates the electrical behavior of a Muller glial cell. The effect of glutamate is enhanced by simultaneous exposure to dopamine. L-Glutamate acts at a metabotropic receptor that controls the K+ conductance through two pathways. A rapid pathway produces a partial inhibition in less than 2 s. Thereafter, a slow pathway progressively inhibits the conductance with a half-time of minutes. Pathways initiated by L-glutamate and dopamine appear to converge on and stimulate adenylyl cyclase. A subsequent step is the activation of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase, PKA. The local overflow of L-glutamate from active synapses may functionally remove K+ channels from nearby glial membranes. A uniform rise in extracellular L-glutamate concentration, as might occur during pathological conditions, should suppress a glial cell's K+ conductance and allow other voltage-dependent processes to be influenced by depolarization.
Radiative Properties of Gold Surfaces with One-Dimensional Microscale Gaussian Random Roughness

The radiative properties of engineering surfaces with microscale surface textures depend on the incident wavelength, optical properties, and temperature as well as the topography of the reflective surface. In the case of slightly rough surfaces, the traditional Kirchhoff theory on rough surface scattering may be applicable. In this study, a direct numerical solution of Maxwell’s equations was developed to understand scattering from weakly to very rough surfaces. The method is the finite-difference time-domain method. The problem of interest is a set of gold surfaces with Gaussian random roughness distributions. Highly accurate experimental data are available from the earlier work of Knotts and O’Donnell in 1994. Due to the negative real component of the complex dielectric constant at the infrared light source wavelengths of 1.152 and 3.392 μm, the convoluted integral was used to convert the frequency domain electrical properties to time-domain properties in order to obtain convergent solutions. The bi-directional reflectances for both normal and parallel polarizations were obtained and compared with experimental data. The predicted values and experimental results are in good agreement. The highly specular peak in the reflectivity was reproduced in the numerical simulations, and the increase of the parallel polarization bi-directional reflectance was found to be due to the effect of a variation in the optical constant from 1.152 to 3.392 μm.
Physiological and Real-Time Gating of Data for Positron Emission Computed Tomography

Data for emission computed tomography (ECT) studies is obtained from detector arrays positioned around a subject. In ECT studies dynamic data is taken representing such functions as blood flow, blood pool, cell perfusion and cell metabolism. These may vary with time due to physiological reasons or cyclicly due to bio-mechanical (e.g. cardiac) reasons. Since the time to acquire statistically significant data is typically much longer than the period of these physiological cycles, data must be taken for discrete divisions of many cycles, in synchronism with the physiological process. Physiological gating may be applied, for instance, to ECT studies of the heart. In these studies, the time period of the cardiac cycle is subdivided. Data from each division of the cycle is compiled into a separate image. A single cardiac cycle does not provide enough data at reasonable subject dose rates to compile an image for each division; therefore, data is taken for several cardiac cycles with separate storage for each division. The resulting image for each division will show increased resolution due to minimization of distortion. This technique may also be applied to respiratory and other dynamic processes. An alternate form of gating creates a cycle based on clock time rather than a physiological process. This method allows the use of high speed buffering to increase the rate of data images acquired. This paper presents a method of providing gating based on either physiological processes or clock time.
Purification of human granulocytes by centrifugal elutriation and measurement of transmembrane potential

Viable cell samples containing 93% pure granulocytes were obtained from human blood using the techniques of dextran sedimentation followed by centrifugal elutriation. The resting transmembrane potential (Em) of human granulocytes was estimated using the fluorescent lipophilic cation, Di-S-C3(5), from the null point for potassium—i.e., the external K concentration at which there is no change in Em in response to valinomycin (a K ionophore). The Em of human granulocytes, as calculated from the Nernst potential for K at the null point, is approximately – 100 mV. Data indicate that this large transmembrane potential is due in part to the presence of an electrogenic Na-K pump in human granulocytes which is stimulated by external potassium and inhibited by ouabain.
The isotopic composition of cosmic rays

Observations of the isotopic composition of the elements carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, neon, magnesium, silicon, sulfur, calcium, iron and nickel are reviewed and 'best' values of selected isotope ratios are derived from the collected data. A simple model of cosmic ray propagation is employed to deduce cosmic ray source abundance ratios both from these best values and from the observations made in a recent high resolution satellite experiment. General features of the cosmic ray source composition are discussed, with emphasis on the enhanced abundances of various neutron rich nuclides and on the distinctly nonsolar character of the nitrogen isotopic abundances.
Enzymes and Radioactivity in Erythrocytes of Different Ages

FRACTIONATION of erythrocytes of different ages by differential haemolysis is a useful approach to the study of enzymatic aspects of the maturation of the erythrocyte in the peripheral blood. Young red cells are thought to be resistant to osmotic haemolysis and older cells to be very fragile1. Recently Simon and Topper2 have shown by serial osmotic haemolysis that young erythrocytes have both fragile and resistant components. In the present paper the activities of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and lactic dehydrogenase have been related to red blood cells of various ages.
A Laboratory Study of Two Straddle-Packer Systems Under Simulated Hydrofrac Stress-Measurement Conditions

Le comportement mecanique du packer d'intervalle est etudie dans un sondage simule par une longueur adequate de tubage. Les pressions utilisees pour simuler la fracturation hydraulique sont superieures a 25 MPa. Des jauges de contrainte sont installees le long du tubage afin de reconstituer l'histoire des contraintes appliquees par le packer au tubage. Deux configurations de packer sont testees: connection rigide ou coulissante des deux elements du packer
ATS-III resistojet thruster system performance.

An ammonia-fueled resistojet engine was developed, qualified, and subsequently tested on the ATS-III spacecraft. The experimental objectives of the test were to demonstrate the operation and function of the resistojet and to obtain micropound thrust measurements in space. Except for problems encountered with the solenoid valves, the first objective was met. The liquid ammonia storage tank and feed system designed for operation in a zero-g environment and the resistance-heated thrusters operated successfully. The second objective was successfully met. Measurements of micropound thrust performance were obtained for both cold flow and electrically heated flow. The measurements compared well with ground measurements. System description, ground characterization, and flight test results are discussed.
Switched reluctance motor drives — recent advances

The objective of this paper is to review the state-of-the-art and recent developments in Switched Reluctance Motor (SRM) drives. The interest for improved performance and reliability has motivated many SRM advances in the recent years. Even after almost 30 years of research in SRM, which might appear to be the simplest of all machines, there remain critical issues to be explored to gain deeper insight into the SRM technology. The paper briefly discusses the historical background and the basic operating principles of the motor. The topics discussed include the current state of research in converter topologies, control algorithms, torque ripple, noise, and sensorless operation. Recent advances in the field of SRMs indicates that they will have an increasing influence in the area of variable speed drives in the coming decades.
A simple determination of alkylsilane monolayer population density

Abstract Silane population density of a variety of organosilane-based monolayers on silica nanoparticles were determined using solid-state 29Si NMR.
Effect of cyclic loading on the temperature in viscoelastic media with variable properties

Steady-state and transient temperature distributions resulting from dissipation are calculated for a linear viscoelastic slab and hollow cylinder subjected to cyclic shear loading Temperature dependence of the dissipation function is introduced through the familiar assumption of thermorheologically simple behavior, wherein frequency-dependent mechanical properties measured at different temperatures are superposed by shifting with respect to the logarithmic frequency scale This assumption leads to a nonlinear heat-conduction equation, and an exact closed-form solution is obtained for just the steady-state temperature distribution In order to solve the transient problem, two approximate methods of analysis are proposed Numerical results for a solid propellant are given, and it is found that a large temperature rise will occur as the result of a thermal instability when the shear stress is above a certain critical value that depends on thermal and mechanical properties and geometry In this paper, inertia is neglected; however, many of the considerations, including the approximate methods, are potentially applicable to dynamic problems as well as to other configurations and loading conditions
Understanding the progression of melanocytic neoplasia using genomic analysis: from fields to cancer

Analysis of DNA copy number changes using comparative genomic hybridization in melanocytic neoplasms has revealed distinct patterns of chromosomal aberrations between benign melanocytic nevi and melanoma. Whereas the vast majority of melanoma expresses chromosomal aberrations, blue nevi, congenital nevi, and most Spitz nevi typically show no aberrations. A subset of Spitz nevi shows an isolated gain of chromosome 11p, an aberration pattern not observed in melanoma. These Spitz nevi frequently harbor mutations in the HRAS gene located on this chromosomal arm. Comparisons among melanoma types showed that melanomas of the palms, soles, and subungual sites can be distinguished by the presence of multiple gene amplifications that arise very early in their progression. About 50% of these amplifications are found at the cyclin D1 locus. By contrast, amplifications are significantly less frequent in other cutaneous melanoma types and if present arise late in progression. The frequent amplifications in melanomas on acral sites allowed the detection of single basal melanocytes with gene amplifications in the histologically normal appearing skin immediately adjacent to a melanoma. These "field cells" represent subtle melanoma in situ and are likely to represent minimal residual disease that can lead to local recurrences if not excised with safety margins. The high frequency of chromosomal aberrations in melanomas and their relative absence in nevi could indicate that melanocytes of melanomas went through telomeric crisis, whereas melanocytes in nevi did not. Such a scenario would suggest that replicative senescence is a tumor-suppressive mechanism in melanocytic neoplasia. It might also explain part of the phenomenon of regression commonly seen in melanoma. Genomic analysis is a powerful tool to obtain insight in the progression of melanocytic neoplasms with potential clinical applications for classification and detection of minimal residual melanoma.
Interleukin 2 maintains biologic stability and sterility over prolonged time

The FDA approved interleukin 2 (IL2) for clinical use in 1992 in a high-dose bolus intravenous infusion schedule. IL2 administered by continuous low- and intermediate-dose infusion can result in a variety of immunologic effects including the expansion of the Natural Killer (NK) cell pool and immune reconstitution in immune-deficient hosts. These immune modifications are essential for augmentation of both currently available and evolving immunotherapies. The manufacturer's data indicate stability of the IL2 for a period of 6 days. This time frame is not practical for prolonged infusional schemes necessitating frequent changes of drug depots. We tested the biologic stability and sterility of the commercially available recombinant IL2 preparation (aldesleukin; Proleukin, Chiron) under clinical conditions for up to 30 days. Our results confirm that IL2 retains its biologic activity and sterility under these conditions for prolonged periods. This information will simplify IL2 outpatient regimens, allowing for convenient intervals for drug depot renewal, leading to improved patient compliance and conserved health care expenditures.
Familial erythrophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: treatment with vinblastine-loaded platelets.

Identical twin Caucasian boys, age 3 months, were seen with fever of unknown origin, hepatosplenomegaly, and pancytopenia. The diagnosis of familial erythrophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FEL) was suspected after examination of Twin A′s bone marrow and confirmed by an open liver biopsy of Twin B. Twin A died shortly after diagnosis despite treatment with vincristine and prednisone. At autopsy, the diagnosis was confirmed. Twin B responded initially to a three-week course of weekly vincristine and daily prednisone, but symptoms soon recurred. In an effort to enhance delivery of chemotherapy to the active macrophage target, platelets were loaded with vinblastine and then administered intravenously to the patient every 7–10 days. There was an encouraging response reflected by the disappearance of symptoms and the return of peripheral blood count to the normal range, although increased number of histiocytes was still demonstrable in his bone marrow. After nine weeks, he relapsed completely and became refractory to treatment. He died of pseudomonas sepsis four months after diagnosis. This is the first known attempt to deliver a chemotherapeutic agent directly to the macrophages in treating this disease and represents an interesting concept that merits further exploration.