cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mutations specifically blocking differentiation of macroconidia in Neurospora crassa

The asexual life cycle of Neurospora crassa is comprised of three stages, vegetative hyphae, aerial hyphae, and macroconidia. Under appropriate environmental conditions these stages occur in an orderly temporal sequence making possible detailed observations of developmental changes in both living and fixed material. Attention is focused on the origin of conidiophores, from aerial hyphae, and the subsequent differentiation of mature macroconidia. Mutations at four genetically independent loci block the process of conidiation at different developmental points. Analyses of these strains and of double mutant strains constructed by crosses among them indicate the order in which the mutants are phenotypically expressed. Three of the mutations have no evident effects on either vegetative or aerial hyphae and hence appear to be “phase-specific” for macroconidia; tion. New evidence is presented in strong support of the idea that the products of these genes are formed in the aerial hyphae and/or conidiophores.
Abstract IA8: Role of biomarkers in the early detection of lung cancer

While lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in the world with a 16% overall survival rate, we now know that early detection by low dose chest CT saves lives. The implementation of screening programs represents a huge challenge. Research is needed to address who will benefit from screening, for how long, and with what frequency we should screen. Using biomarkers to select the most at-risk population, to detect the disease while measurable and yet not clinically apparent, and to predict survival, has been the goal of many investigations. Recent advances in molecular strategies and analytical platforms including genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have identified increasing numbers of potential biomarkers. These molecular approaches are applied to a variety of samples collected by non invasive methods including blood, urine, exhaled breath condensate, bronchial specimens, saliva, and sputum. None have yet moved to the clinical setting. In this presentation, we will define clinical contexts where diagnostic biomarkers may have utility in the management of lung cancer, we will review the state of development of candidate diagnostic biomarkers, and finally, we will discuss critical aspects of study design in biomarkers research.
Structure and properties of polybutylene crystallized from the glassy state. I. X-ray scattering, DSC, and torsion pendulum

Abstract Isotactic polybutene (PB) can be quenched into a completely glassy state by quenching molten films into a solid-liquid mixture of isopentane, Freon, or ethanol. The crystallization of PB from the glass form was studied by x-ray scattering, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical spectroscopy (torsion pendulum). As for crystallization from the melt, PB crystallizes from the glass into a tetragonal crystal structure (Form II) at ca. 0°C, depending on sample thickness, and then transforms to the twinned hexagonal structure (Form I) upon aging at room temperature. In the presence of isopentane, PB crystallizes partially from the glass into the untwinned hexagonal (Form 1′) structure at ca. -70°C; the rest of the sample starts to transform to tetragonal structure at ca. -30°C and nearly completes crystallization at ca. 0°C. The exact temperatures of both transformations depend on the amount of isopentane present and sample thickness. Upon aging at room temperature the tetragona...
MO-D-230A-03: Patient Planning Management System

Purpose: The goal is to develop a dynamic automated patient management program. This software will be able to track the status of the patient's treatment plan and remind the responsible parties of intermediate deadlines. Alerts are sent each morning to the radiation oncologist, residents, dosimetrists, and physicists about the current stage of the treatment planning.Method: The patient planning management software was written in Visual Basic 7.0 and incorporates Microsoft Excel's spreadsheet. The programs display is viewable over anywhere in the department. The program shows each patient's data in a separate row and color coded according each radiation oncologist. The patient's CT and start date are entered for each patient. The deadlines included are that for the approval of the PTV and normal tissue, plan approval, and completion. The program will change the color of the patient's data from yellow (warning) and red (alarm) based upon approaching deadlines. Results: This planning software continuously updates patient information. This program eliminates the time consuming process of paging, emailing, and tracking down responsible parties to communicate completion of various tasks. Since the inception of this software the mean time interval to complete a plan has decreased by 30%. The mean time required to get target volumes approved has dropped 25%. One significant benefit is the 50% increase in time between the completion date and start date. Without an increase the overall planning time, this has allowed more time for physics checks, quality assurance, and therapist review. Conclusions: In the face of increasing patient numbers the dynamic automated patient management software has enabled our department to complete our patient's plans in a more efficient manner. This increased efficiency allows all responsible staff adequate time to complete their responsibilities for each patient.
Ablation of Tumor Necrosis Factor Is Associated with Decreased Inflammation and Alterations of the Microbiota in a Mouse Model of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with prolonged, excess secretions of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF). Many patients with IBD have successful management of IBD symptoms by blocking TNF secretion or signaling. However, some patients are non-responsive to this therapy, eventually become refractory to therapy, or Alterations in the microbiota that are associated with the lack of TNF could be a contributing cause of this therapeutic insufficiency seen in some patients. Here we use wildtype (WT) and mice lacking Tnf (Tnf-/-) in an acute TNBS colitis model to investigate the role of TNF in colitis and how its presence or absence affects the colonic microbiota. As expected, Tnf-/- had less severe inflammation than WT mice. Microbiome analysis revealed significant Tnf dependent-differences in alpha and beta diversity. There were also notable differences in many species that were also primarily Tnf dependent. Taken together, our data indicates that TNF contributes significantly to the inflammation and microbiotal alterations in that occur in IBD.
Quercetin's effects on intestinal polyp multiplicity and macrophage number in the Apc(Min/+) mouse.

Numerous in vitro studies argue for quercetin's chemopreventive potential in colon cancer; however, experimental studies in rodents are limited. Macrophages play a role in tumorigenesis, but the effects of quercetin on macrophage infiltration in colon cancer is unknown. We examined the effects of quercetin on intestinal polyp multiplicity and macrophage number in Apc(Min/+) mice. Apc(Min/+) mice were assigned to placebo or quercetin (n = 8/group) groups. Mice were given a placebo or quercetin (0.02%) diet from 4-20 wk of age, after which intestines were analyzed for polyp number and size in the small intestine (Sections 1-4) and colon (Section 5) and for macrophage number in the small intestine (Sections 1 and 3). Spleen weight was determined as a marker of systemic inflammation. Quercetin decreased total intestinal polyps by 67% (P 2 mm (69%) and 1-2 mm (79%; P < 0.05), and in Sections 2 (75%), 3 (80%), and 4 (79%; P < 0.05). Quercetin also decreased macrophage number in Sections 1 (57%) and 3 (81%), and spleen weight (P < 0.05). These data suggest that quercetin can reduce polyp number and size distribution in the Apc(Min/+) mouse and that these effects may be related to a reduction in macrophage infiltration.
The importance of electron-molecule interactions in free-free continuum emission for microwave discharge CVD

Optical emission spectroscopic (OES) measurements are acquired by collecting absolute line and continuum emission from a hydrogen/methane plasma (300 sccm H2, 3 sccm CH4, 40–70 torr, 1600–3200 W) used for diamond deposition. The experimental results are used in tandem with numerical modeling to infer plasma parameters of interest. Numerical solutions for a microwave chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor are generated by coupling solutions of the Boltzmann equation and the electron energy equation to a collisional-radiative model (CRM). Results indicate that the electron-neutral free-free emission, which depends strongly on neutral density, electron density, and electron temperature, is the dominant source of continuum emission. All numerical solutions are found to be inconsistent with the experimentally measured continuum emission. A meaningful interpretation, however, is possible if the electron-H2 cross-section, used for calculating electron-neutral free-free continuum emission, is increased by between 4 and 20 above the momentum cross-section value. We believe that such an increase is justified because of enhanced energy exchange in electron-molecule interactions.
False Memories for Highly Aversive Early Childhood Events: Effects of Guided Imagery and Group Influence

We examined false memories for a suggested experience of an early childhood medical procedure. A total of 99 college undergraduates were randomly assigned to one of four conditions that crossed guided imagery with group influence. Guided imagery and group influence significantly affected the likelihood that participants generated a false memory report. Only group influence produced significant differences in perceptions of the memory (e.g., confidence and clarity) as well as perceptions of the memory recovery experience (e.g., pressure to report). Although guided imagery and group influence failed to significantly interact, the combination of guided imagery and group influence led 75% of participants to report a false memory that contained details about the event not initially suggested. The implications for the iatrogenic creation of false memories and the recovered memory debate are discussed.
An Adaptive Controller Inspired by Recent Results on Learning from Experts

In computational learning theory there have been some interesting developments recently on the problem of “learning from experts.”
The potential of gene therapy for the treatment of disc degeneration

Research in biologic methods of treating disc degeneration is still in its infancy. Many different strategies are being evaluated, but the gene therapy strategy stands out because of its potential for long-term efficacy. Choosing the correct gene for use in gene therapy is critically important. Of the many different classes of potentially therapeutic genes, the regulatory genes hold the most promise. Of the different gene therapy delivery methods, the most work has been performed with viral vectors, either ex vivo or in vivo. Current research now is turning toward in vivo experiments in rabbits. Efficacy and safety will be demonstrated first with smaller animal models. Beyond that, nonhuman primate experiments demonstrating efficacy and safety will be the penultimate step before initiation of human studies.
Predicting binding sites of hydrolase-inhibitor complexes by combining several methods

Background Protein-protein interactions play a critical role in protein function. Completion of many genomes is being followed rapidly by major efforts to identify interacting protein pairs experimentally in order to decipher the networks of interacting, coordinated-in-action proteins. Identification of protein-protein interaction sites and detection of specific amino acids that contribute to the specificity and the strength of protein interactions is an important problem with broad applications ranging from rational drug design to the analysis of metabolic and signal transduction networks.
FKBP12 is not required for the modulation of transforming growth factor beta receptor I signaling activity in embryonic fibroblasts and thymocytes.

Transforming growth factor 1�(TGF-fi) signals through a heteromenc complex of type I and type II transmembrane senne-threonine kinases. Recent evidence suggests that the immunophilin FKBPI2 modulates the activity of the type I receptor, based on data that immunosuppressive drugs that disrupt FKBPI2 binding to the type I receptor enhance TGF-fi signaling in mink lung epithelial cells, and overexpression of FKBPI2 inhibits type I receptor phosphorylation by the type II receptor. To determine the physiological relevance of the FKBPI2-TGF-j3 receptor I interaction, we investigated whether disruption of this interaction affects TGF-�-signaling in primary mouse embryo fibroblasts and thymocytes. We found that the addition of excess drugs had no effect on either TGF-fi-mediated transcriptional responses or growth inhibition. Dose-response curves for TGF-13
A Dynamic Probability Model of Hurricane Winds in Coastal Counties of the United States

Abstract The authors develop and apply a model that uses hurricane-experience data in counties along the U.S. hurricane coast to give annual exceedence probabilities to maximum tropical cyclone wind events. The model uses a maximum likelihood estimator to determine a linear regression for the scale and shape parameters of the Weibull distribution for maximum wind speed. Model simulations provide quantiles for the probabilities at prescribed hurricane intensities. When the model is run in the raw climatological mode, median probabilities compare favorably with probabilities from the National Hurricane Center’s risk analysis program “HURISK” model. When the model is run in the conditional climatological mode, covariate information in the form of regression equations for the distributional parameters allows probabilities to be estimated that are conditioned on climate factors. Changes to annual hurricane probabilities with respect to a combined effect of a La Nina event and a negative phase of the North Atla...
Does Guilt Motivate Prayer

We recruited 110 college students for an experimental investigation of the role of guilt in motivating religious behavior. We induced guilt in half of the participants before asking all subjects to indicate their current interest in prayer. Overall, participants in the guilt condition were more interested in praying, but this effect was not observed among those high in grandiose narcissism. Our findings make a contribution not only to the study of the role that emotions have in motivating religious behavior, but also to the study of narcissists’ susceptibility to guilt.
Direct-current measurements of oxide and interface traps on oxidized silicon

A direct-current current-voltage (DCIV) measurement technique of interface and oxide traps on oxidized silicon is demonstrated. It uses the gate-controlled parasitic bipolar junction transistor of a metal-oxide-silicon field-effect transistor in a p/n junction isolation well to monitor the change of the oxide and interface trap density. The dc base and collector currents are the monitors, hence, this technique is more sensitive and reliable than the traditional ac methods for determination of fundamental kinetic rates and transistor degradation mechanisms, such as charge pumping. >
The inhalants: an overview.

Abstract Current inhalant abuse involves anesthetics, solvents, and some aerosols. About 7 million Americans have experimented with them. Nitrous oxide, halothane, and amyl nitrite are popular inhalants of abuse among adolescents today. The author examines trends and patterns in use, adverse effects, and aspects of treatment and prevention.
Geographic Information System mapping as a tool to assess nonresponse bias in survey research

Abstract Background Surveys are a useful tool for assessing professional practice patterns, although declining response rates have caused concern over external validity. This is particularly relevant to Web-based surveys, where response rates traditionally have been lower than with paper mail surveys. In a 2005 survey of North Carolina community pharmacy managers using a Web-based data collection instrument, we achieved an overall response rate of 23%. Objective To explore nonresponse bias using accepted methods and to test whether Geographic Information System mapping is a useful tool for assessing response bias. Methods Cross-sectional survey of 1593 community pharmacy managers in North Carolina using a Web-based tool. Nonresponse bias was assessed quantitatively by comparing early responders with late responders (ie, wave analysis) and by comparing respondents with nonrespondents with regard to known pharmacy, pharmacist, and population characteristics. Significant variables from these analyses were then mapped using ArcGIS 9.1. Results Pharmacy type was identified as a predictor of response, with independent pharmacies less likely to respond than chain pharmacies (odds ratio 0.75; 95% confidence interval 0.59-0.95). This conclusion was consistent in the wave analysis and the analysis of known population characteristics. Other county-level variables such as the number of physicians per capita, income, and the percentage of residents eligible for Medicaid showed trends but were not statistically significant ( P Conclusion The best way to avoid nonresponse bias is to improve response rates. When this is not possible, Geographic Information System mapping has some utility for assessing nonresponse bias, and for aggregating known population characteristics based on location. It is most useful in conjunction with other accepted techniques such as wave analysis and analysis of known population characteristics.
An Actor–Partner Interdependence Analysis of Associations between Affect and Parenting Behavior among Couples

Prior studies evaluating associations between parental affect and parenting behavior have typically focused on either mothers or fathers despite evidence suggesting that affect and parenting behavior may be interdependent among couples. This study addressed this gap in the literature by evaluating associations between self-reported affect and parenting behavior using an actor-partner interdependence analysis among a sample of 53 mother-father dyads of 3- to 5-year-old children. Results suggested that mothers' and fathers' negative affect, as well as mothers' and fathers' positive affect, were positively associated. Both mothers' and fathers' negative affect were negatively associated with fathers' positive affect. Mothers' and fathers' harsh/negative parenting behavior, and supportive/engaged parenting behavior, were positively associated. Furthermore, mothers' negative affect was positively associated with mothers' and fathers' harsh/negative parenting behavior while mothers' positive affect was negatively associated with mothers' harsh/negative behavior and positively associated with mothers' supportive/engaged behavior. Fathers' negative affect was positively associated with fathers' supportive/engaged parenting behavior, while fathers' positive affect was positively associated with mothers' and fathers' supportive/engaged behavior. Results highlight the importance of conceptualizing and measuring characteristics of both mothers and fathers, if applicable, when researching the dynamics of interpersonal relationships within families.
Bsoft: Image and Molecular Processing in Electron Microscopy

Abstract Software for the processing of electron micrographs in structural biology suffers from incompatibility between different packages, poor definition and choice of conventions, and a lack of coherence in software development. The solution lies in adopting a common philosophy of interaction and conventions between the packages. To understand the choices required to have such common interfaces, I am developing a package called “Bsoft.” Its foundations lie in the variety of different image file formats used in electron microscopy—a continually frustrating experience to the user and programmer alike. In Bsoft, this problem is greatly diminished by support for many different formats (including MRC, SPIDER, IMAGIC, SUPRIM, and PIF) and by separating algorithmic issues from image format-specific issues. In addition, I implemented a generalized functionality for reading the tag-base STAR (self-defining text archiving and retrieval) parameter file format as a mechanism to exchanging parameters between different packages. Bsoft is written in highly portable code (tested on several Unix systems and under VMS) and offers a continually growing range of image processing functionality, such as Fourier transformation, cross-correlation, and interpolation. Finally, prerequisites for software collaboration are explored, which include agreements on information exchange and conventions, and tests to evaluate compatibility between packages.
The measurement and analysis of cortical networks

Summary form only given. Technological advances over the past five years have led to an unprecedented level of volume and detail in the acquisition of neuroscientific data relating to the mammalian brain. However, this creates significant challenges in the processing and interpretation of the data. We will adopt a network-centric approach to tackle this, as it matches the physical structure of the brain. We present methods to extract functional brain networks from spatio-temporal time series that describe neural activity, such as in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). These networks capture intrinsic brain dynamics. We describe computational methods to extract topological regularities in such networks, including motifs and cycles. We analyze the relations hip between the structure of the network, as represented by its motifs, and its function. For instance, example hub neurons in the hippocampus promote synchrony and shortest loops act as pacemakers of neural activity. We demonstrate the relevance of the network analysis techniques in understanding specific brain-related disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. For instance, the disruption of cortical networks involved in synchronization may be a contributor to autism and schizophrenic patients which have been shown to have higher connectivity within the default mode network.
Assessing Over-Exercise, Anorexia, and Bulimia in Campus Recreation:

The primary aim of this study was to assess the need for and interest in guidelines for addressing instances of over-exercise and eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia in campus recreation....
CHILDHOOD DIABETES IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract In Suleimania Children's Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 110 diabetic children were diagnosed and followed over a 5-year period (1985-1989). Seventy-five percent (82/110) were of Saudi origin and 54% (59/110) female. Their parents were often related, 31% (34/110) being first degree cousins, and 12% (13/110) second degree cousins. First degree family history was positive for Type 1 diabetes in 28% (31/110). Among these cases, siblings accounted for 26%, fathers 2%, and mothers none. Family history was also positive for Type 2 diabetes in 35% (38/110) and for both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes in 14% (15/110). Mean age at onset was 5.9 years (7 months to 12 years). Thirty percent (33/110) of the patients were under 3 years of age on admission. The most common clinical presentation was diabetic ketoacidosis, seen in 67% of the patients (74/110).
TAS-MAC: A Traffic-Adaptive Synchronous MAC Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks

Duty cycling improves energy efficiency but limits throughput and introduces significant end-to-end delay in wireless sensor networks. In this article, we present a traffic-adaptive synchronous MAC protocol (TAS-MAC), which is a high-throughput, low-delay MAC protocol tailored for low power consumption. It achieves high throughput by adapting time division multiple access (TDMA) to a novel traffic-adaptive allocation mechanism that assigns time slots only to nodes located on active routes. TAS-MAC reduces the end-to-end delay by notifying all nodes on active routes of incoming traffic in advance. These nodes will claim time slots for data transmission and forward a packet through multiple hops in a cycle. The desirable traffic-adaptive feature is achieved by decomposing traffic notification and data-transmission scheduling into two phases, specializing their duties and improving their efficiency, respectively. Simulation results and experiments on TelosB motes demonstrate that the two-phase design significantly improves the throughput of current synchronous MAC protocols and achieves the similar low delay of slot-stealing-assisted TDMA with much lower power consumption.
Electrodermal lability and individual differences in simultaneous monitoring and tracking

Electrodermal (galvanic skin) responses conveniently index sympathetic arousal. Indivduals with high levels of resting electrodermal activity are designated "labiles," while those with low levels, "stabiles." Labiles appear resistant to performance decrement over time in vigilance tasks. Thus, increased electrodermal responsivity may represent enhanced attentional capacity during such tasks. The responses of 10 labiles and 10 stabiles were collected during a simple reaction time task and under single and dual task monitoring and tracking conditions. Subjects monitored an automatic tracking task for dynamic system failures. Tracking was the Critical Task with a subcritical level of instability. The reaction time data paralleled the previously reported findings of inferior performance for stabiles. The data for complex single and dual task conditions did not reveal a similar trend. Generally, stabiles performed better. The pattern of these results suggests that the proposed selective enhancement associated with electrodermal lability is only adaptive for tasks that require or profit from focused attention. Language: en
Financial Globalization, Capital Account Liberalization and Risk Sharing

Conventional wisdom suggests that countries that are financially integrated should be better insured against macroeconomic risk. In this paper, I study whether international risk sharing has improved with greater financial integration during the period 1973-2003. Using panel data regressions, I demonstrate that risk sharing improves with greater financial integration for industrial countries, especially during the globalization period. However, developing countries do not show any discernible pattern in risk sharing. Emerging economies, which accounted for a huge share of capital flows in the recent past, show only a marginal change in risk sharing. Capital flows come in different types such as portfolio equity flows, debt flows, foreign direct investment among others and each affects risk sharing differently. I examine the unique role of different types of capital flows in risk sharing and find that risk sharing benefits are higher for industrial countries for each of these components. On the contrary, greater reliance on debt flows appears to have reversed the potential risk sharing gains for the emerging economies.
Synthesis of tetranuclear, four-coordinate manganese clusters with "pinned butterfly" geometry formed by metal-mediated N-N bond cleavage in diphenylhydrazine.

The preparation of four-coordinate tetramanganese−amide−hydrazide clusters is described. Reaction of Mn(NR2)2 (R = SiMe3) with N,N′-diphenylhydrazine resulted in the formation of a black intermedia...
Leaf phenology, photosynthesis, and the persistence of saplings and shrubs in a mature northern hardwood forest

We quantified leaf phenologies of saplings and overstory trees of sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) and American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.), and the shrub hobblebush viburnum (Viburnum alnifolium Marsh.) in a 72-year-old northern hardwood forest. Seasonal changes in irradiance in the shrub layer, and in the leaf CO(2) exchange of viburnum, and sugar maple and beech saplings were also measured. Leaf expansion occurred earlier in the spring and green leaves were retained later in the autumn in saplings and shrubs than in overstory trees. During the spring light phase (before overstory closure), large CO(2) gains by all three shrub-layer species occurred as a result of a combination of relatively large leaf area, high photosynthetic capacity, and high irradiance. Throughout the summer shade phase, photosynthetic capacity at a given irradiance remained relatively constant, but CO(2) gain was typically limited by low irradiances. Even though irradiance in the shrub layer increased during the autumn light phase as the overstory opened, CO(2) gains were modest compared to springtime values because of declining leaf area and photosynthetic capacity in all three species. The CO(2) gains during the spring light phase, and to a lesser extent during the autumn light phase, may be important to the carbon balance and long-term persistence of saplings and shrubs in the usually light-limited shrub layer of a northern hardwood forest. Therefore, for some late-successional species, leaf phenology may be an important characteristic that permits their long-term persistence in the shrub layer of mature northern hardwood forests.
Temporalization of Peak Electric Generation Particulate Matter Emissions during High Energy Demand Days

Underprediction of peak ambient pollution by air quality models hinders development of effective strategies to protect health and welfare. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s community multiscale air quality (CMAQ) model routinely underpredicts peak ozone and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. Temporal misallocation of electricity sector emissions contributes to this modeling deficiency. Hourly emissions are created for CMAQ by use of temporal profiles applied to annual emission totals unless a source is matched to a continuous emissions monitor (CEM) in the National Emissions Inventory (NEI). More than 53% of CEMs in the Pennsylvania–New Jersey–Maryland (PJM) electricity market and 45% nationally are unmatched in the 2008 NEI. For July 2006, a United States heat wave with high electricity demand, peak electric sector emissions, and elevated ambient PM2.5 mass, we match hourly emissions for 267 CEM/NEI pairs in PJM (approximately 49% and 12% of unmatched CEMs in PJM and nationwide) usi...
The Multiple Dimensions of Information Technology Infrastructure Capability toward Cooperative Interfirm Relationship: An Empirical Study

This study seeks to assess the impact of IT infrastructure capability on cooperative interfirm relationship. Grounded in IT infrastructure framework and transaction cost and information processing theories, we identify multiple dimensions of IT infrastructure capabilityIT resources, information resources, and process resources and propose a model and formulate hypotheses, which articulate relationships between the dimensions and electronic cooperation. We then test the hypotheses empirically using the data from a survey of IS managers in manufacturing and retailing industries. The results support the multi-dimensional view of IT infrastructure capability in interfirm relationship.
Unburned Hydrocarbon, Volatile Organic Compound, and Aldehyde Emissions From General Electric Heavy-Duty Gas Turbines

Field data clearly show that the emissions of UHC, VOC, (sometimes also called Reactive Organic Gases), and Aldehydes from GE heavy-duty gas turbines are very low. At loads exceeding 75% of base, these emissions are less than 2 ppm. In fact, stack emissions are often less than background concentration. Proper methods of measurement and quality assurance are necessary to detect and measure such low values. Allowance for background hydrocarbons should be made when guaranteeing UHC/VOC.Copyright © 1990 by ASME
Fabrication of zinc oxide/polydimethylsiloxane composite surfaces demonstrating oil-fouling-resistant superhydrophobicity

A novel approach is described for preparing anti-oil-fouling superhydrophobic surfaces. These are produced via the coating of textured hydrophobic zinc oxide on polydimethylsiloxane films to form composite coatings. The surfaces showed superhydrophobic as well as superoleophilic wetting with measured contact and sliding angles for water near 160° and less than 5°, respectively, and contact angles of less than 5° for dodecane. It is demonstrated that subsequent to the fouling of structured surfaces with significant levels of an alkane liquid (oil), the oil is rapidly self-removed, restoring superhydrophobic behavior. Furthermore these protective surfaces can be thermally regenerated for repeated use. This approach is distinct from those reported previously, which rely on expensive fluorochemicals to produce superamphiphobic surfaces. It is believed that the presented approach holds promise in the design of practical anti-oil-fouling superhydrophobic technology.
Hypothermia in Experimental InfectionsIII. The Effect of Hypothermia on Resistance to Experimental Pneumococcus Infection

Fever, though it is one of the most characteristic responses of the animal organism to bacterial invasion, is imperfectly understood and relatively little is known about its r61e in infectious diseases. Inflammatory tissue reactions as observed histologically are more obviously related to resistance and are generally considered to be especially important in localization and destruction of invading bacteria. It has been widely assumed that both general and local temperature elevation in warm blooded animals, whatever the mechanism of its production, assists in the defensive processes of the host. There is direct experimental as well as indirect clinical evidence to support this assumption, but little of it is conclusive and some of it appears paradoxical. It is well known, for instance, that induced fever is beneficial in certain infectious diseases and not in others, but in those diseases in which it is beneficial its action appears to be by direct thermal destruction or inhibition of the infectious agent rather than by any enhancement of the normal defensive mechanisms of the host. It has also been a common observation that where resistance is
Labeling meiotic chromosomes in maize with fluorescence in situ hybridization

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) can be used to visualize chromosomal features using repetitive or single gene probes above a minimum target size. When applied to meiosis, each chromosome of the karyotypic complement can be identified, which can facilitate an understanding of the interrelationship of different chromosomes during this process. On the other hand, the pachytene stage of early meiosis is characterized by slightly but not strongly condensed chromosomes that permit more detailed analyses of adjacent features than can be achieved with somatic metaphase chromosomes.
Experimentation in Organizations

I consider a moral hazard problem in which a principal provides incentives to a team of agents towork on a risky project. The project consists of two milestones of unknown feasibility. While workingunsuccessfully, the agentsâ private beliefs regarding the feasibility of the project decline. This learningrequires the principal to provide rents to prevent the agents from procrastinating and free-riding onothersâ discoveries. To reduce these rents the principal stops the project inefficiently early and givesidentical agents asymmetric experimentation assignments. The principal prefers to reward agents withbetter contract terms or task assignments rather than monetary bonuses.
Effect of licorice flavonoid oil on visceral fat in obese subjects in the United States

Abdominal obesity, or accumulation of visceral fat, is mainly associated with the onset of metabolic syndrome. Licorice flavonoid oil (LFO) consisting of licorice hydrophobic polyphenols in mediumchain triglycerides (MCT) is a new functional food ingredient effective in preventing metabolic syndrome. We have demonstrated significant effects of LFO on reduction of total body fat and visceral fat together with body weight in overweight Japanese subjects. Obesity is a more serious problem in Western countries such as Europe and the United States compared to Japan. We hypothesized that LFO could also work for abdominally obese people in Western countries. We therefore tested the effects of 300 mg LFO concentrate solution taken once daily with evening meals for up to 12 weeks in obese adult male and female subjects in the United States. Results showed that visceral fat, as measured by an abdominal CT scan, waist circumference measurements and waist-to-hip ratio significantly decreased in subjects in the LFO group compared to the placebo group at Week 12. The side-effect profile of LFO was indistinguishable from placebo. Moreover, no adverse trends or toxicologically meaningful differences in haematology and chemistry test results, vital signs or physical examinations were observed that were attributable to LFO. These results indicate that LFO is a safe food ingredient for preventing metabolic syndrome not only in Japan but also in Western countries such as Europe and the United States.
Why do Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Professionals Leave EMS

Objective The objective was to determine why Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)-Basics and Paramedics leave the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workforce. Methods Data were collected through annual surveys of nationally registered EMT-Basics and Paramedics from 1999 to 2008. Survey items dealing with satisfaction with the EMS profession, likelihood of leaving the profession, and likelihood of leaving their EMS job were assessed for both EMT-Basics and Paramedics, along with reasons for leaving the profession. Individuals whose responses indicated that they were not working in EMS were mailed a special exit survey to determine the reasons for leaving EMS. Results The likelihood of leaving the profession in the next year was low for both EMT-Basics and Paramedics. Although overall satisfaction levels with the profession were high, EMT-Basics were significantly more satisfied than Paramedics. The most important reasons for leaving the profession were choosing to pursue further education and moving to a new location. A desire for better pay and benefits was a significantly more important reason for EMT-Paramedics’ exit decisions than for EMT-Basics. Conclusions Given the anticipated increased demand for EMS professionals in the next decade, continued study of issues associated with retention is strongly recommended. Some specific recommendations and suggestions for promoting retention are provided. Blau G , Chapman SA . Why do Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Professionals Leave EMS? Prehosp Disaster Med. 2016;31(Suppl. 1):s105–s111.
Early Mortality in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma in the Context of Novel Drugs

Background: In 2015, there will be an estimated 26,850 cases of multiple myeloma (MM) diagnosed in the US. Novel therapies and broader use of autologous stem cell transplant (SCT) have resulted in improved survival. Despite this tremendous progress in its treatment, MM remains incurable and there are patients whose survival is quite limited. We reviewed our Institution9s experience by examining a 10-year cohort of 836 patients treated for MM at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) to synthesize our cumulative findings, specifically looking for baseline characteristics associated with early mortality (EM), defined as death within two years of diagnosis. Methods: Retrospective review of 836 MM patients treated in the MGH Cancer Center between 2005 and 2015 to identify patients who died of MM. Inclusion criteria for this analysis were age of 18 or greater treated for MM between 2005 and 2015 at MGH who died of their disease. The outcomes of interest were median survival, gender, race, marital status, insurance status, body mass index (BMI), stage at diagnosis, presence of bone disease at diagnosis, renal function, type of MM, cytogenetics (by karyotype and fluorescent in situ hybridization), first-line therapy, best response to first-line therapy, and treatment with high-dose chemotherapy (HDC) and autologous stem cell transplant (SCT). A Fisher9s exact test was used to assess the statistical significance of the compared study measurements. Results: One hundred thirteen patients who died of MM were identified, of those, 36 (32%) died within 2 years of diagnosis. Median survival for those who died within 2 years was 0.997 versus (vs) 4.15 years. Median age of the EM cohort was 68.9 vs 64.6 (p=0.07). Bone disease at diagnosis was strongly associated with EM, 24 (67%) vs 13 (19%) (p 0.99). Gender, race, marital status, type of insurance, and BMI were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions: EM in MM is associated with advanced ISS stage, bone disease, and diminished renal function at diagnosis. Interestingly, high-risk cytogenetics were not associated with EM which may be a reflection of small numbers. There was a significant difference in the number of pts who received HDC and SCT which is likely related to baseline co-morbid conditions such as diminished renal function. The correlation between the presence of bone disease with survival underscores the importance of incorporating bone disease into the ISS staging system. *eGFR data missing from one patient Disclosures O9Donnell:Millennium: Consultancy. Raje:Acetylon: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Millenium: Consultancy; AstraZeneca: Research Funding; Takeda: Consultancy; Onyx: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Celgene Corporation: Consultancy; Eli Lilly: Research Funding.
Determining Interactions of Cationic Membrane Nanoparticles with Hydrophobic Drug Cargo and their Mechanisms of Drug Delivery to Cells

Paclitaxel (PTXL), a member of the taxane family of mitotic inhibitors, is a widely used cancer drug. The first PTXL clinical incarnation (Taxol®) employs the non-ionic surfactant, Cremophor® EL—which itself causes hypersensitivity reactions—to solubilize hydrophobic PTXL. Second generation alternatives to deliver PTXL include Abraxane® and EndoTAG® (a liposomal formulation), which achieve limited passive tumor targeting and are still associated with typical chemotherapy side effects. In order to make a substantial therapeutic improvement, delivery vehicles must concentrate more PTXL in tumors and interact less with healthy tissue (Int J Pharm Sci Rev Res 2015, 31, 205; J Cont Release 2012, 163, 322; Chem Rev 2016, 116, 3883). Lipid nanoparticles have many advantages as drug delivery agents including a diverse set of lipid building blocks to tune physical and chemical properties, as well as their ease of modular fabrication. We demonstrate the ability to alter the drug-loading capacity of liposomes and the nanoparticle-cell interactions by changing the lipid composition to affect membrane charge density, steric stabilization, hydrophobic domain disorder, and lipid shape (which determines membrane curvature). Here, we present results that indicate the importance of tail structure for hydrophobic drug loading and retention. We have also observed a non-monotonic drug delivery dependence on the amount of PTXL incorporated into liposomes. Preliminary results reveal a significant divergence from the known tenets governing liposome-based gene delivery to those that determine small molecule hydrophobic drug delivery. In order to develop a set of design principles for the latter, a systematic understanding of how liposome formulation dictates the nanoparticle's subsequent path in vitro and in vivo is essential. Novel liposome formulations achieve in vitro outcomes equal to and better than the stage III formula EndoTAG®.
Data tweening: incremental visualization of data transforms

In the context of interactive query sessions, it is common to issue a succession of queries, transforming a dataset to the desired result. It is often difficult to comprehend a succession of transformations, especially for complex queries. Thus, to facilitate understanding of each data transformation and to provide continuous feedback, we introduce the concept of "data tweening", i.e., interpolating between resultsets, presenting to the user a series of incremental visual representations of a resultset transformation. We present tweening methods that consider not just the changes in the result, but also the changes in the query. Through user studies, we show that data tweening allows users to efficiently comprehend data transforms, and also enables them to gain a better understanding of the underlying query operations.
Aminosalicylates in inflammatory bowel disease

Numerous clinical trials have supported the efficacy of aminosalicylates in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis. There are few studies in paediatric patients addressing either pharmacokinetic properties or efficacy. There are a number of controversies in their clinical use, including: the optimum dose and dosing interval for induction and maintenance of remission, the most appropriate preparation given the clinical setting, the overall efficacy in Crohn’s disease, the efficacy in preventing post-operative recurrence of Crohn’s disease etc. A new oral mesalamine formulation, MMX (multi-matrix tablet), delivers mesalamine particularly to the distal colon even when given once daily. The tablet form still precludes use in small children.
Marijuana advertising exposure among current marijuana users in the U.S.

Background Little is known about marijuana advertising exposure among users in the U.S. We examined the prevalence of advertising exposure among young adult marijuana users through traditional and new media, and identified characteristics associated with seeking advertisements.
Firearm presence and storage practices in North Carolina homes

Firearms injuries are a leading cause of injury and death in North Carolina, including suicide, homicide, intentional assault, and unintentional injuries. Research has demonstrated that the presenc...
Social Presence in Social Media: Persuasion, Design and Discourse

This paper is part of the SIGMIS CPR doctoral consortium, summarizing a dissertation in progress. This dissertation analyzes the social presence construct in three essays from three perspectives: consequences, "competition" aspect, and antecedents.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging: A Review of Emerging Advancements and Future Insights.

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a powerful tool that enables untargeted investigations into the spatial distribution of molecular species in a variety of samples. It has the capability to image thousands of molecules, such as metabolites, lipids, peptides, proteins, and glycans, in a single experiment without labeling. The combination of information gained from mass spectrometry (MS) and visualization of spatial distributions in thin sample sections makes this a valuable chemical analysis tool useful for biological specimen characterization. After minimal but careful sample preparation, the general setup of an MSI experiment involves defining an (x, y) grid over the surface of the sample, with the grid area chosen by the user. The mass spectrometer then ionizes the molecules on the surface of the sample and collects a mass spectrum at each pixel on the section, with the resulting spatial resolution defined by the pixel size. After collecting the spectra, computational software can be used to select an ...
Time-critical action: representations and application

We review the problem of time-critical action and discuss a reformulation that shifts knowledge acquisition from the assessment of complex temporal probabilistic dependencies to the direct assessment of time-dependent utilities over key outcomes of interest. We dwell on a class of decision problems characterized by the centrality of diagnosing and reacting in a timely manner to pathological processes. We motivate key ideas in the context of trauma-care triage and transportation decisions.
Serious illness communications checklist.

The goal of the Serious Illness Communication Checklist is to improve care for patients with serious illnesses and their families by facilitating and documenting discussions about end-of-life issues at the right time in the right way.