cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Separating ontogenetic and environmental determination of resistance to herbivory in cottonwood

We used narrowleaf cottonwood, Populus angustifolia, and the gall-forming aphid, Pemphigus betae, to determine the extent to which ontogenetic variation in resistance to herbivory is due to endogenous, stable genetic influences. In a three-year common garden trial using ramets propagated from the top, middle, and bottom of mature trees, we found that the resistance of trees to aphids was significantly higher in top vs. bottom source ramets, supporting the hypothesis of a stable, genetically programmed component to aphid resistance. The magnitude of ontogenetically based variation in resistance within an individual tree is comparable to the genetic variation in resistance among narrowleaf cottonwood genotypes or populations found in other studies. These ontogenetic-based findings have the potential to alter ecological interactions and evolutionary trajectories of plant-herbivore interactions.
Development of a parallel three-phase transient stability simulator for power systems

This paper discusses the development of a parallel three-phase transient stability simulator that is built using the high performance computing library PETSc. Unlike the existing transient stability simulators that use a balanced per phase transmission network, the authors use a three phase transmission network. This three phase representation allows a more realistic analysis of unbalanced conditions due to untransposed transmission lines, widespread single phase loads and unbalanced disturbances. The goal of this paper is not to delve into the unbalanced analysis but rather present the scalability results of the newly developed parallel three-phase transient stability simulator. The performance of the proposed parallel three-phase transient stability simulator using Krylov subspace based iterative solver GMRES with two variants of Block-Jacobi preconditioner and a very dishonest preconditioning strategy is presented.
Closed claim review from a single carrier in New York: the real costs of malpractice in surgery and factors that determine outcomes

INTRODUCTION: We postulated that a closed claim review of surgical cases would identify not only the quality of care elements but also factors that will predict successful legal outcomes. METHODS: One hundred eighty-seven closed surgical cases from a single carrier, which insured physicians practicing in 4 university hospitals in New York State, were reviewed, cataloged, and analyzed. RESULTS: Most suits occurred during midcareer and routine operations. Seventy-three percent of cases were won. The average payment and expenses per case were $220,846 $38,984 and $40,175 $4,204, respectively. Poor communication was identified in 24% of cases and was a predictor of a negative outcome (41% lost, P .05), as was inadequate attending supervision (46% lost, P .05). Expert reviews incriminated or exculpated physician defendants in 85 cases, which affected the outcome and cost. The quality of the physician defendant as a witness also affected the outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Most surgical malpractice claims are won. Although supervision, communication, and aggressive risk management are important, the use of quality experts and establishing credibility of the physician defendant are critical for successful legal outcome.
USE OF ELECTRODELESS DISCHARGE LAMPS IN THE ANALYSIS OF ATOMIC SPECTRA

The application of electrodeless discharge lamps in obtaining the information necessary for the analysis of the first and second spectra of lanthanide and actinide elements is discussed. It is shown how differentiation of neutral atom and first ion lines, self-reversal, and Zeeman-effect observations may be procured using these lamps as the sole source. The procedures are illustrated by studies on Cm, Gd, and Dy.
Dose-dependent effects of methylmercury on limb regeneration of newts (Triturus viridescens)

Abstract Newts with amputated limbs were raised in solutions containing various concentrations of methylmercuric chloride. It was found that the initiation of regeneration was delayed in animals raised in lower mercury concentrations (0.01 – 0.07 ppm) as compared to the control animals. No delay in the initiation was observed at higher mercury concentrations (0.1 – 1.0 ppm). The rate of regeneration, however, was markedly increased in all mercury-treated animals soon after regeneration was initiated. The present investigation indicates that the effects of methylmercury on cellular growth are dose-dependent.
Coffee and Conservation: a Global Context and the Value of Farmer Involvement

In a recent issue of Conservation Biology, Rappole et al. (2003) argued that promoting shade-grown coffee threatens some forest ecosystems (particularly highland pineoak forests) and discussed reasons why the shade coffee movement is misleading in terms of biodiversity conservation. Here, we argue that in the larger global agricultural context, and if promoted correctly, shade coffee does not present a significant threat to forest conservation but instead may advance conservation goals. Furthermore, we present an alternative way for conservationists to reduce future threats from shade-grown coffee via linkage of rigorous shade certification with fair-trade certification programs.
Effects of Phase Noise at Both Transmitter and Receiver on the Performance of OFDM Systems

OFDM system suffers from significant performance degradation due to the presence of phase noise, which causes the common phase error (CPE) and intercarrier interference (ICI) among subcarriers. Various phase noise analysis and mitigation schemes were presented for OFDM in the literature, which only concerned with phase noise generated at the receiver, assuming the transmitter noise is negligible. However, this is inappropriate for the uplink application, where transmitter employs relatively low cost local oscillators. In this paper, we aim to analyze an OFDM system with phase noise at both transmitter and receiver in a WSSUS multipath fading channel. Results show that such system is equivalent to an OFDM system with phase noise at receiver only, hence simplifies the system model and provides an easy way to examine phase noise effect at both transmitter and receiver.
Neuroimaging in Mitochondrial Disorders

Mutations in either nuclear DNA or mitochondrial DNA can result in disruption of oxidative phosphorylation and lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial disease manifestations occur predominantly in the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, and/or involve several organ systems. The consequences range from manifestations of a single organ or tissues, such as muscle fatigue, if confined only to muscle, seizures, intellectual disabilities, dementia, and stroke (if to the central nervous system), leading to disability or even early death. The definitive diagnosis of a mitochondrial disorder can be difficult to establish. Criteria and checklists have been established and are more reflective of adult disease. However, in children, when symptoms suggest a mitochondrial disease, neuroimaging features may have more diagnostic impact and additionally these can be used to follow the course, evolution, and recovery of the disease. This review will demonstrate the common neuroimaging patterns in patients with mitochondrial disorders and point out how various newer neuroimaging modalities may be exploited to glean information as to the different aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction or resulting neurological and cognitive disruption, although reports in the literature using these methods remain sparse.
Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol increase plasma testosterone concentrations in mice

Oral administration of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol had a biphasic effect on plasma testosterone concentrations in male mice, causing rapid sustained increases at low doses and subsequent decreases at higher doses. In hypophysectomized and intact mice receiving gonadotropins (human chorionic gonadotropin), treatment with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol maintained higher plasma testosterone concentrations. Thus, this cannabinoid may interact with gonadotropin and directly influence testicular steroidogenesis in vivo.
Unique genetics of human embryonic stem cells

Human embryonic stem (huES) cells have been widely touted as an important source of cells and tissues for future transplantation and regenerative medicine therapies. Since the derivation and propagation of huES cell lines was first described in 1998,[1][1] several research groups have defined
An improved fluorometric assay for DNA.

Abstract A modification of the fluorometric assay of Kissane and Robins is described. The modified procedure is very accurate, widely applicable, and reasonably easy to use. A standard cell type instead of a standard DNA solution makes the assay universally reproducible. DNA content is calculated by a simple method from the slope of a DNA concentration series. This can be used to detect technique erros.
Spatial patterns of innovation activities in France: market’s role versus public research efforts

In 2008, the spatial distribution of French research activities showed a polarized structure with two important agglomerations formed around Ile de France and Rhone-Alpes. A spatial analysis is here proposed to investigate the extent to which technology-specific innovation patterns are determined by the concentration of economic activities, the level and the quality of local research and knowledge flows from neighboring areas. The diversity of employment and the concentration of economic activities are found to be important drivers of spatial patterns of innovation activities, with an expected rate of innovation that increases with a higher concentration of economic activities. Such effect is higher in particular for technological fields as Chemistry. Although local research also stimulates innovation activities, the spatial distribution of the latter is subject to decreasing returns to local research. Additionally, knowledge flows from neighboring areas enforce local research activities, in particular for the case of Mechanical engineering and Electricity, locking-in the process of the localization of innovation activities. The knowledge of the appropriate channel of inducing technology-specific innovation patterns enables decision makers to formulate market-based or research support instruments able to stimulate private initiatives, with further consequences upon the spatial organization of innovation activities.
African-American Breast Cancer Survivors Participating in a Breast Cancer Support Group: Translating Research into Practice

Despite an overall decline in mortality, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death among African-American women. As such, clinicians should prepare to address the unique sociocultural and psychological concerns encountered by African-American women breast cancer survivors. The objective of this study is to examine, using qualitative methods, the main coping facilitators used by African-American women as they transition across the cancer continuum. The identification of these facilitators was then aligned with culturally sensitive interventions most useful with women coping with cancer along the cancer continuum. This was a secondary analysis of 20 videotaped stories of African-American breast cancer survivors collected as a part of the Washington University Center for Excellence in Cancer Communications project. The interview began with a discussion of how the survivor first became aware she had breast cancer, followed by a series of open-ended probes used to explore the following themes: coping, relationships, health care system experiences, follow-up care, and quality of life living with breast cancer. Survivors discussed their experiences and advice for targeting needs at each cancer stage from screening to diagnosis, treatment, and then survivorship. Survivor narratives point to key evidence-based clinical intervention strategies at each stage of the cancer trajectory. This study found that survivors see a cyclical cancer course, whereby African-American breast cancer survivors serve an important role in the lives of unscreened women, newly diagnosed women, and women in treatment.
Sparse H 2 optimal filter design via convex optimization

This paper considers the problem of synthesizing H 2 filters subject to sparsity constraints on their structure, that is, constraints on which inputs can be used when computing the estimated value of a given output. The main result of the paper shows that, contrary to the sparse controller case, the necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of filters satisfying a given sparsity pattern is related to the existence of solutions to a finite set of linear equations. Further, when the problem is feasible, then it can be solved using convex optimization and the objective function exhibits a “separation” like structure that clearly indicates the cost of sparsity.
Antineoplastic Agents. 579. Synthesis and Cancer Cell Growth Evaluation of E-Stilstatin 3: A Resveratrol Structural Modification

As an extension of our earlier structure/activity investigation of resveratrol (1a) cancer cell growth inhibitory activity compared to the structurally related stilbene combretastatin series (e.g., 2a), an efficient synthesis of E-stilstatin 3 (3a) and its phosphate prodrug 3b was completed. The trans-stilbene 3a was obtained using a convergent synthesis employing a Wittig reaction with phosphonium bromide 9 as the key reaction step. Deprotection of the Z-silyl ether 13 gave E-stilstatin 3 (3a) as the exclusive product. The structure and stereochemistry of 3a was confirmed by X-ray crystal structure determination.
Effects of sex pheromone on locomotion in the male American cockroach,Periplaneta americana

The locomotory activities of individual males ofPeriplaneta americana in a circular arena 2.5 m in diameter were investigated during the portion of the photocycle in which the cockroaches are most active. Control animals ran at an average speed of 10.86 cm/sec but remained immobile 68 % of the time. Pauses in locomotion occurred frequently and at fairly regular intervals (x=0.88 sec). Males showed a strong tendency to remain near the sides of the arena. Sex pheromone presented in the center of the arena produced a reduction in immobility time and a slight increase in running speed. The frequency of pauses decreased, and the time between pauses became less regular. The proportion of time spent near the sides of the arena was greatly reduced also.
Carbohydrate Metabolism and Carbon Fixation in Roseobacter denitrificans OCh114

The Roseobacter clade of aerobic marine proteobacteria, which compose 10–25% of the total marine bacterial community, has been reported to fix CO2, although it has not been determined what pathway is involved. In this study, we report the first metabolic studies on carbohydrate utilization, CO2 assimilation, and amino acid biosynthesis in the phototrophic Roseobacter clade bacterium Roseobacter denitrificans OCh114. We develop a new minimal medium containing defined carbon source(s), in which the requirements of yeast extract reported previously for the growth of R. denitrificans can be replaced by vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin). Tracer experiments were carried out in R. denitrificans grown in a newly developed minimal medium containing isotopically labeled pyruvate, glucose or bicarbonate as a single carbon source or in combination. Through measurements of 13C-isotopomer labeling patterns in protein-derived amino acids, gene expression profiles, and enzymatic activity assays, we report that: (1) R. denitrificans uses the anaplerotic pathways mainly via the malic enzyme to fix 10–15% of protein carbon from CO2; (2) R. denitrificans employs the Entner-Doudoroff (ED) pathway for carbohydrate metabolism and the non-oxidative pentose phosphate pathway for the biosynthesis of histidine, ATP, and coenzymes; (3) the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP, glycolysis) pathway is not active and the enzymatic activity of 6-phosphofructokinase (PFK) cannot be detected in R. denitrificans; and (4) isoleucine can be synthesized from both threonine-dependent (20% total flux) and citramalate-dependent (80% total flux) pathways using pyruvate as the sole carbon source.
Sympathetic nerve activity in response to hypotensive stress in the postural tachycardia syndrome.

Background— Increased central sympathetic activity and/or deficient peripheral sympathetic nerve function are among the proposed pathophysiological changes in patients with the postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Little is known about sympathetic nerve outflow and its role in hemodynamic control in this disorder. Methods and Results— We recorded peroneal muscle sympathetic nerve activity in 9 POTS patients and 9 control subjects at rest and during a nitroprusside-induced hypotensive stimulus. Baseline blood pressure (BP) and heart rate were significantly higher in POTS patients than in controls. At rest, the burst frequency was similar in POTS patients and controls (18.1±6.2 and 20.1±7.9 bursts/min, respectively; P=NS), whereas the burst incidence was significantly lower (23.1±6.8 versus 32.2±11.4 bursts/100 heartbeats, P<0.05). Nitroprusside increased sympathetic outflow significantly more in POTS patients than in controls despite a similar BP decrease (burst frequency 20.4±7.5 versus 12.1±4.1 bursts/m...
Performance of the V storage server: a preliminary report

Network file access efficiency is a key issue in a distributed system's performance, especially when many of the network nodes are diskless and rely on a shared network file server. We have designed and implemented a file server that uses the network interprocess communication of the V kernel for file access. This paper describes the basic design of the file server with emphasis on the performance-critical areas. We also give its performance under a variety of workloads and compare these measurements with results predicted by other modeling studies.We conclude that the buffering and disk layout strategies we have used work well under load. Performance results are consistent with a previous modeling study that the file server processor is the most critical resource. However, our experiments with high load were limited by the small amount of buffering on the network interface, i.e. large numbers of packets are dropped at high load giving poorer than predicted performance.
LHRH-receptor-regulated Ca2+-ATPase activity in murine pituitary gland.

Addition of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) in vitro (10−5−5×10−9 M) to murine pituitary membranes resulted in a dose-related decrease in Ca2+-ATPase activity within 15 min. Inhibitory effects of LHRH (10−7 M) occurred after 90 sec, and appeared maximal by 120 sec. Eadie-Hofstee analysis at 10−7 M LHRH, at varying [Ca2+]free, resulted in aK m=0.89±0.06 μM and aV max=18.8±0.71 nmol/mg per 2 min, compared to aK m=0.69±0.06 μM and aV max=32.8±1.21 nmol/mg per 2 min for controls. Pre-incubation for 5 min with LHRH antagonist (10−8 M) significantly attenuated (50%) the inhibitory effects of 10−7 M LHRH on pituitary Ca2+ ATPase activity with aK m=0.97±0.24 μM and aV max=28.1±2.8 nmol/mg per 2 min. The addition of LHRH (10−7 M) to pituitary homogenates significantly increased luteinizing hormone (LH) release already at 10 and up to 40 sec compared to basal LH release. Systemic administration of 50 ng LHRH (i.p.), significantly (P<0.05) reduced pituitary Ca2+-ATPase after 30, 60 and 90 min, with a return to control levels by 120 min. Pituitary LH content was reduced slightly at 15 min, but was increased significantly at 90 and 120 min post-treatment. Plasma LH levels were elevated by 5 min, reached a peak by 15 min and returned to control within 60 min. The present findings indicate that LHRH receptor activation may influence cytosolic Ca2+ transport through effects on membrane Ca2+-ATPase activity. These actions may regulate LHRH-induced synthesis, storage and release of LH from pituitary gonadotropes.
Modular verification of dynamically adaptive systems

Cyber-physical systems increasingly rely on dynamically adaptive programs to respond to changes in their physical environment; examples include ecosystem monitoring and disaster relief systems. These systems are considered high-assurance since errors during execution could result in injury, loss of life, environmental impact, and/or financial loss. In order to facilitate the development and verification of dynamically adaptive systems, we separate functional concerns from adaptive concerns. Specifically, we model a dynamically adaptive program as a collection of (non-adaptive) steady-state programs and a set of adaptations that realize transitions among steady state programs in response to environmental changes. We use Linear Temporal Logic (LTL) to specify properties of the non-adaptive portions of the system, and we use A-LTL (an adapt-operator extension toLTL) to concisely specify properties that hold during the adaptation process. Model checking offers an attractive approach to automatically analyzing models for adherence to formal properties and thus providing assurance. However, currently, model checkers are unable to verify properties specified using A-LTL. Moreover, as the number of steady-state programs and adaptations increase, the verification costs (in terms of space and time) potentially become unwieldy. To address these issues, we propose a modular model checking approach to verifying that a formal model of an adaptive program satisfies its requirements specified in LTL and A-LTL, respectively.
On New Multivariate Probability Distributions and Stochastic Processes with System Reliability and Maintenance Applications

Two distinct methods for construction of some interesting new classes of multivariate probability densities are described and applied. As common results of both procedures three n-variate pdf classes are obtained. These classes are considered as generalizations of the class of univariate Weibullian, gamma, and multivariate normal pdfs. An example of an application of the obtained n-variate pdfs to the problem of modeling the reliability of multicomponent systems with stochastically dependent life-times of their components is given. Obtaining sequences over n = 2, 3, ... of consistent n-variate pdfs, that obey a relatively simple common pattern, for each n, allows us to extend some of the constructions from random vectors to discrete time stochastic processes. Application of one, so obtained, class of highly non-Markovian, but still sufficiently simple, stochastic processes for modeling maintenance of systems with repair, is presented. These models allow us to describe and analyze repaired systems with histories of all past repairs.
cDNA selection: efficient PCR approach for the selection of cDNAs encoded in large chromosomal DNA fragments.

Abstract Identification of coding segments in large fragments of genomic DNA is a recurrent problem in genome mapping and positional cloning studies. We have developed a rapid and efficient protocol to achieve this goal, based on hybridization of cDNA fragments to immobilized DNA and recovery of the selected cDNAs by the PCR. The procedure permits rapid cloning of cDNA fragments encoded by large genomic DNA fragments, groups of yeast artificial chromosomes, or cosmids and has the potential to directly enrich cDNAs encoded in chromosome segments. By this approach we have been able to identify several non-major histocompatibility complex class I clones from a yeast artificial chromosome that includes the HLA-A locus.
Solutions for the Cuff Deficient Shoulder

Abstract This is a discussion regarding the treatment of the rotator cuff deficient shoulder with Dr. Louis U. Bigliani. He discusses classification, indications, treatment options, and advancements in surgical technique and instrumentation.
Ensemble Dependence of Fluctuations with Application to Machine Computations

The standard theory of fluctuations in thermodynamic variables in various ensembles is generalized to nonthermodynamic variables: e.g., the mean-square fluctuations of the kinetic energy $K$ in a classical microcanonical ensemble at fixed energy $E$ is given, for large systems, by $\frac{〈{(\ensuremath{\delta}K)}^{2}〉}{〈K〉=T[\frac{1\ensuremath{-}3}{2C})}$, where $T$ is the temperature (corresponding to the energy $E$) and $C$ is the specific heat per particle (in units of Boltzmann's constant). The general results may be expressed in terms of the asymptotic behavior of the Ursell functions in various ensembles. Applications are made to molecular dynamic computations where time averages correspond (via ergodicity) to phase averages in an ensemble with fixed energy and momentum. The results are also useful for time-dependent correlations.
Long-term increase of Sp-1 transcription factors in the hippocampus after kainic acid treatment.

Systemic administration of kainic acid (KA), a glutamate receptor agonist, causes robust seizures and has been used as an excellent rodent model for human temporal lobe epilepsy. Recently, we have demonstrated that a single injection of KA increases the steady-state levels of proenkephalin (PENK) mRNA in the rat hippocampus for at least one year. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this long-term increase in PENK mRNA levels have not been clearly defined. To determine the possible involvement of the Sp-1 transcription factors in this regulation, electrophoresis mobility-shift assays were used to study the expression of Sp-1 factors in the hippocampus after KA treatment. The results showed that there are long-lasting increases in Sp-1 DNA-binding activity. The Sp-1 DNA-binding complexes were only competed by the non-radioactive Sp-1 element and not by ENKCRE2, AP-1 or CRE elements, indicating the specificity of Sp-1 DNA-binding activity. Since the expression of Sp-1 parallels the time course of long-lasting increase in the expression of PENK mRNA and mossy fiber sprouting after KA treatment, we hypothesize that the increase in Sp-1 activity may be associated with the long-term changes in the plasticity of hippocampal function after KA-induced seizures.
[Reply to “On magnetospheric research”] On the number of ringlets in the Saturnian rings

G. L. Tyler claims (Eos, January 29, 1985, p. 41) that there are 22 ringlets in the Saturnian ring and criticizes me be-cause I have given numbers which are or-ders of magnitude larger. The controversy is largely semantic. It is theoretically expected that the rings should have a “fine structure” [Alfven, 1984; Alfven and Cech, 1984] from which we can derive important processes at the formation of the rings and, in a wider context, gain essential information about the evolutionary history of the solar system. A recent study demonstrates that a detailed analysis of the C ring, as well as of the A and B rings, makes it possible to reconstruct certain events which probably occurred 4–5 billion years ago with an accuracy of 1% [Alfven et al., 1985]. In some regions, e.g., the Holberg minimum, this fine structure is superimposed on a continuous background so that the opacity does not go down to zero; in others, e.g., the Cassini division, it does. Still, similar cosmogonically relevant information can be extracted from both regions. For example, in both regions there is a double peak, which can very well be called a double ringlet.
Abortion in Israel: Community, Rights, and the Context of Compromise

In contrast to American understandings of abortion as a uniquely tragic dilemma, the Israeli abortion issue is a tangential controversy in a larger debate over the relationship between the state's national and democratic identity. The divergent paths of abortion politics in Israel and the United States reflect important differences in underlying religious doctrines, geographical size, feminist ideologies, and the immediacy of other social cleavages. More profoundly, the two abortion stories are the product of distinct understandings of the mutual obligations between citizens and their state and of the relationship between individual and collective rights and duties. While these differences may account for the capacity of Israeli activists on both sides to forge pragmatic compromises, the stability of these policies is uncertain both because of changing Israeli priorities and the import of American conceptions of the abortion dispute.
Surveying kaolin-treated cotton plots with airborne multispectral digital video imagery

Airborne multispectral digital video imagery was evaluated as tool for surveying kaolin-treated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plots, with emphasis on decision support. Images of experimental plots were obtained on 12 June 2002 and 16 June 2004 with an electronic digital video imaging system acquiring blue (447–455 nm), green (555–565 nm), red (625–635 nm), near-infrared (814–826 nm), and mid-infrared (1631–1676 nm) imagery. We qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated the single band images and color and false color composite images to compare the image responses of treated plots with the image responses of untreated plots. Blue, green, and red imagery separated the treated plots from the untreated plots (Dunnett’s test and t-test; P = 0.05), with the blue imagery being the most responsive to the treatment. Treated plots were readily differentiated from untreated plots with natural color and false color composite imagery. This separation was attributed to the images that were sensitive to some portion of the visible spectrum (i.e., blue, green, and red light). These results indicate that airborne electronic imaging systems have great potential as tools for surveying cotton fields treated with kaolin particle film, supporting application of the imagery as a decision support tool. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Cognitive motor interference during dual-task gait in essential tremor

Background Functional ambulation requires concurrent performance of motor and cognitive tasks, which may create interference (degraded performance) in either or both tasks. People with essential tremor (ET) demonstrate impairments in gait and cognitive function. In this study we examined the extent of interference between gait and cognition in people with ET and controls during dual-task gait.
Dosing of thioTEPA for myeloablative therapy

High-dose thioTEPA is used frequently in myeloablative regimens for marrow transplantation, but the need for dose adjustments in obese patients has not been explored. We determined the pharmacokinetics of thioTEPA and its metabolite TEPA during first-dose infusion of thioTEPA 150–250 mg/m2 given daily for 3 days in combination with busulfan and cyclophosphamide, and evaluated the results for correlations with toxicity and dosing strategies. The study included 15 adults undergoing marrow transplantation for hematologic malignancies. Plasma samples were obtained at various times over a 24-h period, and concentrations of thio TEPA and TEPA were measured by gas chromatography. At 22–24 h after initiation of a 4-h infusion, the mean ±SE plasma concentration of thioTEPA was 124±63 ng/ml, while that of TEPA was 235±69 ng/ml. For CFU-GM and BFU-E growth in vitro, the IC50s of thioTEPA were 83 ng/ml and 16 ng/ml, respectively, and the IC50s of TEPA were 141 ng/ml and 47 ng/ml, respectively. Using a twocompartment model, the mean thioTEPA Vc was 47.4±4.7 l/m2, t1/2α 19±5 min,t1/2β 3.7±0.5 h, and plasma clearance 302±21 ml/min per m2. The mean AUCs were 6.9–16.2 mg h/l for thioTEPA and 8.9–21.2 mg h/l for TEPA, while the mean peak concentrations were 0.95–2.08 μg/ml for thioTEPA and 0.88–1.90 μg/ml for TEPA. There was a significant association of grades 2–4 maximum regimen-related toxicity (RRT) with TEPA peak >1.75 μg/ml and with combined thioTEPA and TEPA AUC >30 mgh/l (5/6 vs 0/9,P=0.01 for both comparisons), suggesting that drug exposure was an important determinant of toxicity and, potentially, efficacy. ThioTEPA Vc correlated best with adjusted body weight (r=0.74,P=0.0015). In an evaluation of 74 adults receiving thioTEPA 750 mg/m2 in combination with busulfan and cyclophosphamide, the maximum RRT for patients at ideal weight was significantly greater than that for obese patients dosed on ideal weight (mean RRT grade 1.7 vs 1.0,P=0.004) but did not differ from the maximum RRT for obese adults dosed on actual or adjusted weights. We recommend that for obese patients thioTEPA be dosed on adjusted body weight. Measurements at time-points after 24 h are needed to determine when thioTEPA and TEPA concentrations are below myelosuppressive levels and safe for marrow infusion.
Enhanced ultraviolet upconversion emission using nanocavities

We investigate the up-conversion emission spectra of Tm3+ and Yb3+ codoped: β-NaYF4-NaYF4 core-shell nanoparticles embedded in plasmonic nanocavities. The results confirm the role of nanocavities in maximizing the conversion efficiency from the NIR to UV.
Chinese personal name variation in medical publications: implications for information retrieval.

Article history: Received 2 August 2009 Accepted 2 August 2009 Available online 4 September 2009 policy will not be feasible. The introduction of the pinyin system after the found People's Republic of China, to replace the older Romanizati Wade–Giles creates another problem. My name Tsung O. C be spelled Zonge Zheng in pinyin. If I should ever spell m pinyin, nobody would recognize that all of my pub
Sensors, networks and internet of things: research challenges in health care

Next generation Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) include sensors, sensor networks and the internet of things. In this paper, we discuss the broader research issues related to such future CPS and abstract three thrusts: sensor related, network related, and IT infrastructure related. We present a detailed description with respect to a healthcare application.
Life cycle freshwater ecotoxicity, human health cancer, and noncancer impacts of corn ethanol and gasoline in the U.S.

Abstract Life cycle studies of corn ethanol have largely centered on the fuel's carbon and energy benefits. However, with the recognition that this narrow focus falls short of addressing the environmental sustainability of fuel substitution, there is a growing body of literature that extends assessment to a broader range of impacts, such as eutrophication, smog formation, acidification, and water and land use. Using the USEtox impact assessment model, this study evaluates the life cycle freshwater ecotoxicity, human health cancer, and noncancer effects of U.S. corn ethanol and gasoline, which are less well understood in comparison to other impact categories. This study also takes into account spatial and temporal variations in corn production and ethanol conversion technologies. Results show that corn ethanol generates potentially larger freshwater ecotoxicity than gasoline due to releases of pesticides in corn growth, particularly, atrazine, acetochlor, chlorpyrifos, and cyfluthrin. So does corn ethanol have a higher potential noncancer impact due to releases of heavy metals through use of phosphate fertilizers. The two fuels seem to induce similar potential caner impacts. The results indicate that replacing gasoline with corn ethanol could further degrade water quality and exacerbate noncancer related human health issues. Overall, this study implies that environmental policymaking should consider a broader spectrum of impacts beyond carbon and energy to avoid or minimize potential environmental burden-shifting.
Reaching and Teaching the Digital Natives

Purpose – The higher education community is facing a new generation of students – the “Digital Natives”. They are the first generation born into a world of pervasive digital technology. They think and learn differently than the “Digital Immigrants” who are teaching them and educators today should be aware of these differences and how this knowledge can be utilized to create a more effective learning environment.Purpose – The purpose is to provide a description of the new generation of students in higher education, “Digital Natives” and their technology needs.Design/methodology/approach – A summary of the characteristics of “Digital Natives.”Findings – This article provides an overview of who are the “Digital Natives” and their influence on technologies used to support learning environments.Originality/value – This paper is useful for information management professionals who seek greater understanding of the ever‐changing student population in higher education.
The effect of dilevalol on cardiac autonomic neural discharge, plasma catecholamines, and myocardial beta receptor density associated with coronary occlusion.

Cats anesthetized with alpha chloralose received saline or dilevalol (1 mg/kg, IV) during a 10-minute infusion. Fifteen minutes later, the left anterior descending coronary artery was subjected to coronary occlusion 2 mm below its origin. Regional differences in the beta receptor densities were found for the atria and ventricles and for the areas within the left ventricle in cats with no coronary occlusion and dilevalol or saline. The variation in beta receptor density distribution may be related to functional differences. Coronary occlusion and saline or dilevalol did not modify the myocardial beta receptor density regional distribution. Mean times to arrhythmia and death in five saline cats were 5.8 +/- 3.6 (N = 3) and 5.4 (N = 2) minutes; three cats were killed 6 hours after coronary occlusion. In five dilevalol cats the times to arrhythmia and death were 2.2 +/- 0.8 (N = 5) and 75.9 +/- 70.7 (N = 4); 1 cat was killed. Dilevalol induced a significant decrease in blood pressure and heart rate prior to coronary occlusion. Coronary occlusion decreased blood pressure and heart rate in both groups. Twenty-five minutes after dilevalol but prior to coronary occlusion, postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge decreased to 81%. In the minutes prior to arrhythmia, postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge was 95% and was significantly increased to 121% 3 minutes after coronary occlusion. The postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge values after coronary occlusion were similar to those in the saline cats. Dilevalol depressed postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge prior to coronary occlusion but did not prevent the nonuniform (i.e., increases, decreases, or no change) discharge in the postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge associated with coronary occlusion-induced arrhythmia. Norepinephrine and epinephrine values in saline cats increased the first 5 minutes after coronary occlusion; this increase was associated with arrhythmia. Norepinephrine and epinephrine values from minute 15 to minute 360 did not differ from control. Dilevalol prevented the increase in norepinephrine and epinephrine levels associated with arrhythmia and death.
More on alternative sentencing: A response to Jerome G. Miller

(1986). More on alternative sentencing: A response to Jerome G. Miller. Justice Quarterly: Vol. 3, No. 4, pp. 531-532.
Anarchy, Commercialism, and “Publish or Perish”

In recent years, scholars worldwide have found themselves under increasing pressure to publish more, especially in English-language “internationally circulated” journals that are included in globally respected indices such as the ISI Citations.
Cold-adapted, live attenuated influenza vaccine.

The recently licensed cold-adapted, live attenuated influenza vaccine (CAIV-T, FluMist™, MedImmune Vaccines Inc.) has the potential to enhance control of epidemic influenza. The intranasal vaccine has proven safety and efficacy. Regulatory constraints and cost of CAIV-T have hampered the introduction of the vaccine in the first year. Unwarranted concern about possible transmission of the virus from vaccine recipients to immunocompromised patients limited use in healthcare personnel. The intense influenza A(H3N2) epidemic of 2003–2004 has underscored the necessity of supplementing current efforts to control influenza. Over 120 deaths have been documented in children – the majority of which have been previously healthy. Use of CAIV-T in children will not only decrease the risk of serious disease, but also dampen the spread of the virus in the community and reduce exposure of patients who are at high risk of complications and death.
3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine uptake and development of metamorphic competence by Xenopus laevis embryonic tissues.

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether or not larval tissues of Xenopus laevis are capable of responding to a very short exposure of 3,5,3′-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3), very early in their ontogeny. Ten dejellied embryos were immersed in 15 ml of aged tap water containing 30 μg of T3 per ml of medium. Exactly at the end of 24 hours all of the embryos were removed, rinsed thoroughly in fresh tap water and placed in aged tap water in a larger container. Both gross morphological and histological observations were carried out on embryos and larvae at an interval of 12 hours beginning at the termination of hormone treatment to the end of about 11 days. The following changes were clearly observed in experimental animals (numbers in parenthesis indicate days after fertilization): (a) degenerative changes in adhesive gland (3.5); (b) more extensive development of nasal sac (5.0); (c) a visible and ventrally protruding hyoid arch (6.5); (d) a larger hind limb bud (5.0). In addition to the above, other obvious changes which were seen in experimental animals were a protruding lower jaw due to an extensive and well developed Meckel's cartilage, and a less extensive gut. The head was cone shaped in T3 treated animals. There was no change in tail to body length ratios. The facts mentioned above appear to indicate a differential ontogenetic competence of embryonic and larval tissues of Xenopus in their response to T3.
Onset of binge eating, dieting, obesity, and mood disorders among subjects seeking treatment for binge eating disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) identified in adulthood is often clinically associated with obesity and a lifetime history of affective disorders. Several authors have suggested that dieting may predispose individuals to binge eating which then may lead to obesity. However, few BED studies have examined the chronology of the onset of binge eating, dieting, obesity, and mood disorders. This study evaluated retrospective reports from 30 women participating in a BED treatment study. Although the majority of subjects in this adult sample were obese, initiation of binge eating behavior usually occurred during adolescence at a time when most subjects reported being of normal weight. Obesity developed several years after the age of onset of meeting BED criteria. Onset of binge eating usually predated that of dieting or major depressive disorder in the majority of subjects. The results support the importance of early intervention for binge eating. © 1995 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Genetics of Disorders with Synuclein Pathology and Parkinsonism

Despite being considered the archetypal non-genetic neurological disorder, genetic analysis of Parkinson's disease has shown that there are at least three genetic loci. Furthermore, these analyses have suggested that the phenotype of the pathogenic loci is wider than simple Parkinson's disease and may include Lewy body dementia and some forms of essential tremor. Identification of alpha-synuclein as the first of the loci involved in Parkinson's disease and the identification of this protein in pathological deposits in other disorders has led to the suggestion that it may share pathogenic mechanisms with multiple system atrophy, Alzheimer's disease and prion disease and that these mechanisms are related to a synuclein pathway to cell death. Finally, genetic analysis of the synuclein diseases and the tau diseases may indicate that this synuclein pathway is an alternative to the tau pathway to cell death.
Pyrosequencing of the northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) chloroplast genome reveals high quality polymorphisms for population management

Given the low intraspecific chloroplast diversity detected in northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.), more powerful genetic tools are necessary to accurately characterize Q. rubra chloroplast diversity and structure. We report the sequencing, assembly, and annotation of the chloroplast genome of northern red oak via pyrosequencing and a combination of de novo and reference-guided assembly (RGA). Chloroplast DNA from 16 individuals was separated into four MID-tagged pools for a Genome Sequencer 20 quarter-run (Roche Life Sciences, Indianapolis, IN, USA). A four-step assembly method was used to generate the Q. rubra chloroplast consensus sequence: (1) reads were assembled de novo into contigs, (2) de novo contigs were aligned to a reference genome and merged to produce a consensus sequence, (3) the consensus sequence was aligned to the reference sequence and gaps between contigs were filled with reference sequence to generate a "pseudoreference", and (4) reads were mapped to the pseudoreference using RGA to generate the draft chloroplast genome. One hundred percent of the pseudoreference sequence was covered with a minimum coverage of 2× and an average coverage of 43.75×. The 161,304-bp Q. rubra chloroplast genome draft sequence contained 137 genes and one rps19 pseudogene. The sequence was compared to that of Quercus robur and Q. nigra with 951 and 186 insertion/deletion or SNP polymorphisms detected, respectively. A total of 51 intraspecific polymorphisms were detected among four northern red oak individuals. The fully sequenced and annotated Q. rubra chloroplast genome containing locations of interspecific and intraspecific polymorphisms will be essential for studying population differentiation, phylogeography, and evolutionary history of this species as well as meeting management goals such as monitoring reintroduced populations, tracking wood products, and certifying seed lots and forests.