cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Neurathian Conception of the Unity of Science

An historically important conception of the unity of science is explanatory reductionism, according to which the unity of science is achieved by explaining all laws of science in terms of their connection to microphysical law. There is, however, a separate tradition that advocates the unity of science. According to that tradition, the unity of science consists of the coordination of diverse fields of science, none of which is taken to have privileged epistemic status. This alternate conception has roots in Otto Neurath’s notion of unified science. In this paper, I develop a version of the coordination approach to unity that is inspired by Neurath’s views. The resulting conception of the unity of science achieves aims similar to those of explanatory reductionism, but does so in a radically different way. As a result, it is immune to the criticisms facing explanatory reductionism. This conception of unity is also importantly different from the view that science is disunified, and I conclude by demonstrating how it accords better with scientific practice than do conceptions of the disunity of science.
A New Approach to the Problem of Retinal Neovascularization

Tumor cells introduced into the rabbit vitreous produced a form of retinal neovascularization, but only when the tumor cells were in direct contact with the vascularized retina. This contrasted with the production of neovascularization at a distance of several millimeters in other angiogenesis models. An extract of adult rabbit vitreous was found to inhibit the growth of limbal neovascularization induced by tumors implanted in the rabbit corneal stroma. The experimental model of retrolental fibroplasia provides a bioassay to investigate further the apparent inhibitory substances in the vitreous.
Host-derived CD8+ dendritic cells are required for induction of optimal graft-versus-tumor responses after experimental allogeneic bone marrow transplantation

The graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) represents an effective form of immunotherapy against many malignancies. Meaningful separation of the potentially curative GVT responses from graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), the most serious toxicity following T-cell replete allo-HCT, has been an elusive goal. GVHD is initiated by alloantigens, although both alloantigens and tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) initiate GVT responses. Emerging data have illuminated a role for antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in inducing alloantigen-specific responses. By using multiple clinically relevant murine models, we show that a specific subset of host-derived APCs—CD8+ dendritic cells (DCs)—enhances TSA responses and is required for optimal induction of GVT. Stimulation of TLR3, which among host hematopoietic APC subsets is predominantly expressed on CD8+ DCs, enhanced GVT without exacerbating GVHD. Thus, strategies that modulate host APC subsets without direct manipulation of donor T cells could augment GVT responses and enhance the efficacy of allo-HCT.
Reliability of motor-evoked potentials during resting and active contraction conditions

ABSTRACTKAMEN, G. Reliability of Motor-Evoked Potentials during Resting and Active Contraction Conditions. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 36, No. 9, pp. 1574–1579, 2004.Purpose:To determine the reliability of motor-evoked potentials (MEP) obtained using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in the
Supplementary Eye Field Encodes Reward Prediction Error

The outcomes of many decisions are uncertain and therefore need to be evaluated. We studied this evaluation process by recording neuronal activity in the supplementary eye field (SEF) during an oculomotor gambling task. While the monkeys awaited the outcome, SEF neurons represented attributes of the chosen option, namely, its expected value and the uncertainty of this value signal. After the gamble result was revealed, a number of neurons reflected the actual reward outcome. Other neurons evaluated the outcome by encoding the difference between the reward expectation represented during the delay period and the actual reward amount (i.e., the reward prediction error). Thus, SEF encodes not only reward prediction error but also all the components necessary for its computation: the expected and the actual outcome. This suggests that SEF might actively evaluate value-based decisions in the oculomotor domain, independent of other brain regions.
Organophosphate inhibitors of acetylcholine-receptor and -esterase tested on the electroplax.

Abstract The organophosphates—DFP, phospholine, and Paraoxon, long known to be potent inhibitors of acetylcholine (AcCh)-esterase—have been applied to the monocellular electroplax preparation. The experiments show that the compounds act at high concentrations as inhibitors of the AcCh-receptor. The effects are rapidly reversible. At low concentrations the organophosphates potentiate the action of AcCh. Occasionally they may cause spontaneous depolarizations of the electroplax membrane. These effects are due to the inhibition of AcCh-esterase, since they are rapidly reversed by pyridine-2-aldoxime methiodide, a potent and specific reactivator of phosphorylated enzyme. A reversal takes place also in Ringer's solution, but much more slowly. Ambenonium, a bisquaternary nitrogen derivative and a potent inhibitor of AcCh-esterase, also causes spontaneous depolarizations. It potentiates the action of AcCh, but to a lesser extent than the organophosphates.
THE CYTOTAXONOMY OF FILIPENDULA (ROSACEAE) AND ITS IMPLICATIONS

A B S T R A C T The genus Filipendula Mill. is generally separated from Spiraea L. in systematic keys on the basis of a single fruit character. In some taxonomic treatments of the Rosaceae, where subfamilies are used, this places the genera in separate subfamilies. Karyological studies can be useful in assaying the justifiability of such treatment and are needed because of serious discrepancies between previous reports of chromosome numbers and the recent textbook designation, on dubious grounds, of F. vulgaris as an example of a "permanent chromosome hybrid." The results given in this paper show that x = 7 in this genus (compared with x = 9 in Spiraea) and the reasons for rejecting previous counts of 2n = 15 for F. vulgaris are presented. "Permanent chromosome hybridity" for this species is also rejected. The possibility that a cytotype with 2n = 16 may exist in the northern part of the range of F. ulmaria cannot be completely discounted, but positive evidence is presented for 2n = 14 in this species (even though 2n = 16 has been reported most frequently recently). The basic number 7 for Filipendula is in agreement with the placing of this genus in the subfamily Rosoideae even though the hereditary peculiarities (apomixis and permanent chromosome hybridity) shown by some other members of this subfamily are apparently not now needed to explain the cytological situation in Filipendula.
The quest to make accessibility a corporate article of faith at Microsoft: case study of corporate culture and human resource dimensions.

This case study examines efforts by Microsoft Corporation to enhance the diversity of its workforce and improve the accessibility and usability of its products and services for persons with disabilities. The research explores the relation among the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, corporate leadership, attitudes and behaviors towards individuals with disabilities, and dynamics that shape organizational culture at Microsoft. Implications for Microsoft, other employers, researchers, and the disability community are discussed. Copyright # 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specific tyrosine residues of Ve-Cad mediate endothelial cell migration: A role in angiogenesis

METHODS: Thirty-two SCID mice with size-matched, orthotopic, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts were divided into four treatment groups: (1) control (2) interferon (3) radiation and (4) interferon followed by irradiation. We used an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector to establish continuous systemic delivery of interferonbeta. During therapy, tumors were evaluated for differences in perfusion and oxygenation by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography and Oxylab Probe measurement, respectively, as well as size.
Nonlinear fixed-h stability of linear multistep formulas

Abstract Stability properties similar to A-stability are established for implicit linear multistep formulas, LMF, when applied to nonlinear stable systems. Sufficient criteria are given which guarantee the fixed-h stability of the global numerical error for various classes of nonlinearities. These criteria relate the behavior of the root-locus curve defined by the LMF to the dissipative properties of the system. A simple criterion for the stability of a composite system is also given.
Studies on DNA replication during synchronized vegetative growth and gametic differentiation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Abstract DNA synthesis occurs just prior to nuclear division in synchronized vegetative cultures of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii . The above timing of DNA replication is also observed during gametic differentiation which involves the division of a vegetative cell into four gametes in nitrogen-free medium. When vegetative cells divide to produce four vegetative daughter cells within a single cell cycle, a round of DNA replication appears to precede each of the two consecutive mitotic events. If synchronized vegetative cultures are grown under conditions of limiting light intensity, two rounds of DNA replication may occur while only one nuclear division follows. The vegetative cells produced by such a division contain twice the normal vegetative complement of DNA within a single nucleus. These cells divide without DNA synthesis about 24 h later yielding two cells with the normal vegetative amount of DNA. 15 N transfer experiments [14, 17]were performed in order to corroborate the chemical determinations of DNA synthesis and to establish conclusively the exact number of replications of the cellular genome during vegetative growth, gametic differentiation and gametic dedifferentiation. In all cases, DNA replication was by a semiconservative mechanism as previously observed by Sueoka [17]. No appreciable synthesis and accumulation of “M-band” DNA, characteristic of zygote maturation, was observed in these other phases of the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii life cycle. Furthermore, the DNA content per cell never reached the lower limit observed in zoospores produced after meiosis which contain one half the amount of DNA present in gametes and vegetative cells. The results of the present study are discussed in terms of the Chlamydomonas life cycle with particular reference to previous studies of DNA replication during meiosis in this strain of Chlamydomonas .
Substitution between wages and on-the-job training in an optimal labor contract

Abstract This paper explores the substitution between wages and on-the-job training in a labor-contracting model in which training investment is negatively related to the specificity of training. A worker who has acquired general training as a positive externality of on-the-job training suffers from overtraining when quitting causes the worker to pay a quit penalty and the alternative job is not highly dependent upon the previous investment in training. It is the overtraining that can jeopardize the substitution between wages and on-the-job training. Unlike some earlier studies, this study finds that the optimal training/wage profiles are sensitive to who pays the training as well as to the degree of specificity of on-the-job training.
EMULATION: AN INSTITUTIONAL THEORY OF VALUE FORMATION*

Illegal insider trading in the stock market is a highly visible symbol of the fact that American morality is on the decline. Our values are degenerating. The pundits of the New right have noticed the decline and the degeneration but blame them on the rise of the liberal welfare state and on the spread of the so-called permissiveness that allegedly has accompanied the liberal welfare state. [Gilder, 1981] But the reactionaries are wrong. They have set up a scapegoat. And they wish to re-establish the authority of a more patriotic, patriarchal, and respectful age. Their nostalgia is not harmless, for their reminiscences reek of proto-fascism, and the reasons they give for our moral malaise are dangerously deluded. In short, the reactionary conven? tional wisdom as to why morals are declining and values degenerating is wholly inadequate. More adequate insight can be gained into value forma? tion and value transmission by contrasting how socialization processes affect the individual in a hegemonic institutional structure versus a pluralistic institutional structure and by exploring emulation ? a socialization process that is transforming pluralism into hegemony in the United States. Here is the cause of moral degeneration in the United States, not the permissive? ness of the liberal welfare state, for pluralism fosters free will and moral integrity while hegemony fosters mindless conformity and moral opportun? ism. Besides, the insider traders responsible for demoralizing our securities markets were not exactly products of the welfare system. The reactionaries of the 1980s were right about only one thing: something has gone dreadfully wrong with American values. Nevertheless, we must turn away from reaction to understand what and why. This journal pub? lished a formal framework that can be used to analyze the shortcomings of rampant consumerism. [Dugger, 1985c] And in a major book, Christopher
Modal analysis of a continuous gyroscopic second-order system with nonlinear constraints

Abstract A method for the modal analysis of continuous gyroscopic systems with nonlinear constraints is developed. This method assumes that the nonlinear constraint can be expressed as a piecewise linear force–deflection profile located at an arbitrary position within the domain. Using this assumption, the mode shapes and natural frequencies are first found for each state, then a mapping method based on the inner product of the mode shapes is developed to map the displacement of the system between the in-contact and out-of-contact states. To illustrate this method, a model for the vibration of a traveling string in contact with a piecewise-linear constraint is developed as an analog of the interaction between magnetic tape and a guide in data storage systems. Five design parameters of the guide are considered: flange clearance, flange stiffness, symmetry of the force–deflection profile in terms of flange stiffness and offset, and the guide's position along the length of the string. There are critical bifurcation thresholds, below which the system exhibits no chaotic behavior and is dominated by period one, symmetric behavior, and above which the system contains asymmetric, higher periodic motion with windows of chaotic behavior. These bifurcation thresholds are particularly pronounced for the transport speed, flange clearance, symmetry of the force deflection profile, and guide position. The stability of the system is sensitive to the system's velocity, and, compared to stationary systems, more mode shapes are needed to accurately model the dynamics of the system.
Evidence for a low-altitude origin of lightning on Venus

Radio emissions attributed to lightning on Venus have been recorded by Venera 11 and 12 and by the Pioneer Orbiter. The Venera descent records are compared to patterns of radio propagation within the Venusian atmosphere and an explanation is found for some timing trends that, if correct, indicates the lightning was below 33 km in altitude.
Transient elevation of serum activity of MB isoenzyme of creatine phosphokinase in drivers involved in automobile accidents.

Drivers involved in automobile accidents were screened for the presence of occult cardiac injury without regard for apparent severity of the accident or injury. An electrocardiogram was recorded, and serum levels of total creatine Phosphokinase and the MB isoenzyme of creatine Phosphokinase (myocardial form) were measured as soon as possible after the accident and subsequently during admission (or on the following day in patients treated and discharged from the emergency room). Electrocardiographic abnormalities were observed in 18 of 82 patients but correlated poorly with other evidence of the severity or location of injury. Of the 22 drivers admitted to the hospital (for any cause), nine demonstrated significant early elevations of the activity of the MB isoenzyme of creatine Phosphokinase. We conclude that blunt cardiac trauma is a clinical subtlety; to be found, it must be sought The ECG is of limited value. Measurement of the serum activity of the MB isoenzyme of creatine Phosphokinase early after injury would appear to offer the best evidence of cardiac trauma.
Threats or Vulnerabilities? Assessing the Link between Climate Change and Security

This article analyzes how climate change has been strategically linked to security issues in recent decades by a variety of actors. I begin by elaborating on two general discourses on the relationship between environment and security, which I call environmental conflict and environmental security. Using discourse analysis, I examine the particular ways that security and climate change have been linked by scholars, policymakers and the media. I then explore some of the potential implications that discussing climate change through each of these security discourses have for policy outcomes within the climate regime. I conclude that the environmental security discourse is the most useful for stressing vulnerabilities and the human security concerns linked to climate change.
Visual tracking as an index of the object concept

Three experiments were conducted to clarify previous interpretations of visual tracking as a measure of knowledge about occluded objects. In Experiment 1, infants at 2, 4, and 6 months of age viewed a series of five different conditions of horizontal target movement. Infants at all ages showed continuous tracking of the target both in the presence and in the absence of an occluding screen located at the midpoint of the target's path. Alterations in target shape or color during occlusion did not significantly increase the frequency of disruptions in tracking. No infant showed a continuation (perseveration) of tracking when the target stopped before the occluder. In Experiment II, a group of 2-month-olds were tested for perseverative tracking using a more salient (white vs. black) occluder. Again, no infant exhibited perseverative tracking. In Experiment III, a group of 6-month-olds viewed a series of trials in which target velocity and occluder size were varied. The frequency of disruptions in tracking increased as target velocity decreased and/or occluder size increased, irrespective of whether the target's shape or color was altered during occlusion. The major findings of no perseverative tracking and few object-specific disruptions in tracking are discussed in relation to the necessity for adequate control procedures.
Exercise during pregnancy and cesarean delivery: North Carolina PRAMS, 2004-2005

Rates of cesarean delivery in the United States rose steadily throughout the 1980s and 1990s, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to make reduction in the number of cesareans among low-risk mothers one of the goals of Healthy People 2010 (1). Unfortunately, since 2000, the rate of cesarean delivery has risen even more sharply, and is currently over 31 percent (2). This rate is of concern from a public health perspective because the procedure is not risk free. Available evidence suggests that although some of the recent rise in cesarean deliveries results from the corresponding rise in maternal obesity (3), the increase in cesareans cannot be attributed entirely to a worsening of maternal or fetal risk profiles.(4-6) This suggestion implies that some of the cesarean sections performed each year in the U.S. may be medically unnecessary, exposing women and babies to risks without proved benefit.(7-8) Interventions aimed at reducing cesarean delivery rates should thus be a public health priority. Physical activity has many known health benefits, including increased control in many chronic diseases (9,10); decreased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, certain cancers, and hypertension (11); and improved mental health (12,13). Exercise during pregnancy in healthy women has been shown to reduce the risks of both gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, control weight gain, and maintain or increase fitness.(14-17) Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada currently recommend that in the absence of certain rare and well-defined complications, pregnant women should exercise for 30 minutes at a moderate intensity on most, if not all, days of the week.(18,19) However, it is estimated that fewer than 20 percent of eligible pregnant women currently meet these standards.(20) Previous studies have suggested that an association may be shown between increased exercise during pregnancy and a decreased risk of cesarean delivery,(21-26), although other studies showed an increased risk (27) or reported mixed results.(28) Many of the results in previous studies were imprecise because sample sizes were small. None of the previous studies was population based, raising the possibility that selection bias contributed to the findings. Only one previous study addressed possible confounding in the analysis.(21) This study examined whether or not an association existed between prenatal exercise and delivery mode, using data from the 2004 and 2005 North Carolina Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) survey. These data represent an improvement over previous efforts because of the large, population-based sample.
Creating a Youth Violence Data System for Boston, Massachusetts

The Harvard Youth Violence Prevention Center has partnered with the city of Boston, Massachusetts to create a data system to track youth violence. The system provides continuing information about fighting, bullying, dating violence and gun carrying. Data from it show that many Boston adolescents are afraid on public transportation (as compared to home, school or street) and that most students widely overestimate the number of their classmates carrying guns. The system also provides data on neighbourhood variables such as collective efficacy. The system has been a success due to the mutual respect shown between the academic and city partners, and the mutual benefits it provides to both.
Pulmonary Immunization Using Antigen 85-B Polymeric Microparticles to Boost Tuberculosis Immunity

This study aims to evaluate immunization with polymeric microparticles containing recombinant antigen 85B (rAg85B) delivered directly to the lungs to protect against tuberculosis. rAg85B was expressed in Escherichia coli and encapsulated in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles (P-rAg85B). These were delivered as dry powders to the lungs of guinea pigs in single or multiple doses of homologous and heterologous antigens. Bacille Calmette–Guerin (BCG) delivered subcutaneously was employed as the positive control and as part of immunization strategies. Immunized animals were challenged with a low-dose aerosol of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv to assess the extent of protection measured as reduction in bacterial burden (CFU) in the lungs and spleens of guinea pigs. Histopathological examination and morphometric analysis of these tissues were also performed. The heterologous strategy of BCG prime–P-rAg85B aerosol boosts appeared to enhance protection from bacterial infection, as indicated by a reduction in CFU in both the lungs and spleens compared with untreated controls. Although the CFU data were not statistically different from the BCG and BCG–BCG groups, the histopathological and morphometric analyses indicated the positive effect of BCG–P-rAg85B in terms of differences in area of tissue affected and number and size of granulomas observed in tissues. P-rAg85B microparticles appeared to be effective in boosting a primary BCG immunization against MTB infection, as indicated by histopathology and morphometric analysis. These encouraging observations are relevant to boosting adults previously immunized with BCG or exposed to MTB, commonly the case in the developing world, and should be followed by further assessment of an appropriate immunization protocol for maximum protection.
Application of silicon sources increases silicon accumulation in perennial ryegrass turf on two soil types

This study investigated the ability of perennial ryegrass to accumulate silicon and the factors that may influence plant silicon accumulation. Plants were grown in the greenhouse in two soil types, peat:sand mix and Hagerstown-silt-loam, amended with two commercially available sources of silicon, calcium silicate slag and wollastonite at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5 and 10 t/ha. Shoot tissue of nine-week-old perennial ryegrass plants was analyzed for silicon content (%) and found to reach a dry matter concentration of up to 4% in this study. Silicon accumulation in perennial ryegrass was influenced by the soil type and source, and was higher in plants grown in low-silicon peat:sand mix compared to Hagerstown-silt-loam. Silicon content (%) in the plants consistently increased with increasing rates of silicon in all four soil and source combinations. Acetic acid (HAc) extractable silicon and Ca increased in both soil types when amended with either of the silicon sources. Effects of silicon sources on soil pH varied with soil type. This study indicates that soil type, source of silicon, and rate of silicon application are important factors influencing the uptake of silicon by perennial ryegrass which is a widely used turfgrass species in golf courses, sports fields, and residential lawns in the United States.
Characterization of R Factor β-Lactamases by the Acidimetric Method

The properties and regulation of β-lactamases produced by certain R factors derived from ampicillin-resistant strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella were characterized. β-Lactamase activity was determined by the acidimetric method with phenol red as indicator. The sensitivity of this assay was increased by employing phosphate buffer at a final concentration of 0.4 mm; as little as 0.05 unit (1 unit equals the amount of β-lactamase that hydrolyzes 1 μmole of benzyl penicillin per hr at p H 7.6 and 25 C) could be detected. This assay is rapid and convenient and appears to be superior to other methods currently employed to assay R factor β-lactamases. Two classes of β-lactamases were distinguished on the basis of substrate profile, heat inactivation, and K m values. The regulation of most of these R factor β-lactamases, like certain other R factor enzymes, is subject to cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated catabolite repression.
Benzene Dimer: A Good Model for π−π Interactions in Proteins? A Comparison between the Benzene and the Toluene Dimers in the Gas Phase and in an Aqueous Solution

We have investigated the relative orientational preference of two benzene and two toluene molecules in a vacuum and in water, by means of free energy calculations. The gas-phase simulations reveal ...
The initiation and growth of delaminations induced by matrix microcracks in laminated composites

A recent variational mechanics analysis of microcracking damage in cross-ply laminates of the form /(S)/90n/s, where (S) is any orthotropic sublaminate much stiffer than /90n/, has been extended to account for the presence of delaminations emanating from the tips of microcracks in the /90 2n/T sublaminate. The new two-dimensional stress analysis is used to calculate the total strain energy, effective modulus, and longitudinal thermal expansion coefficient for a laminate having microcracks and delaminations. These results are used to calculate the energy release rate for the initiation and growth of a delamination induced by a matrix microcrack. At low crack densities, /(S)/90n/s laminates are expected to fail by microcracking and to show little or no delamination. At some critical crack density, which is a function of laminate structure and material properties, the energy release rate for delamination exceeds that for microcracking and delamination is predicted to dominate over microcracking. A quasi-three-dimensional model is used to predict the propagation of arbitrarily shaped delamination fronts. All predictions agree with experimental observations.
The use of moment estimators to determine the parameters of concentration fluctuations in random area atom probe analyses

Abstract A method based on moment estimators for the estimation of the extent of concentration fluctuations in atom probe random area analyses is described. The extent of the concentration fluctuations determined from this moment estimators method and from the maximum likelihood P a method showed excellent agreement for a series of random area analyses obtained from a spinodally decomposed Fe-45%Cr alloy that was aged at 500°C within the low temperature miscibility gap.
Abstract 4403: Combined antagonism of the IL-4R and IKKα inhibits melanoma tumor growth in immunocompetent mice

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL With over 8500 deaths each year in the USA, malignant melanoma is the deadliest of all skin cancers. Constitutive activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is common in melanoma, promoting tumor growth, survival and metastasis. In light of its role in tumorigenesis, targeting of the NF-κB pathway has been considered a possible therapeutic option for the treatment of melanoma. However, NF- αB activation is critical for the development, survival, migration and function of immune cells. We hypothesized that systemic inhibition of the activation of NF-κB might have a deleterious effect on the tumor immune response. Melanoma bearing C57BL/6 mice received 50 mg/kg of BMS-345541, a selective inhibitor of the inhibitor of αB kinase (IKKα), twice daily. Tumors, spleens and bone marrow were harvested at different time points and analyzed by flow cytometry for leukocyte composition and cytokine production. Intracellular cytokine staining revealed an early induction of Interleukin-4 (IL-4) within the myeloid and B cell components of the tumor, as a result of BMS-345541 treatment. The production of IL-4 by these cells suggests an early switch to a tumor promoting T helper 2 (Th2) and M2 driven immune response, which may counteract the anti-tumor effect of IKKα inhibition by generating a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment. These results, in part, explain the modest delay in tumor growth demonstrated. IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) expression on human melanoma cells has been previously documented; however the effects of IL-4 on these cells have generated contradictory reports. IL-4R signaling has been shown to either inhibit growth of tumor cells in vitro or to promote survival of tumor cells. In C57Bl/6 mice bearing a murine melanoma, BMS345541 (75 mg/kg bid) was given in combination with 100 µg of IL-4R blocking antibody on day 4 and day 12 of treatment. This combination significantly inhibited tumor growth compared to BMS345541 treatment alone. These data suggest an important role for IL-4 in promoting melanoma growth in vivo. Dual targeting of IL-4R and NF-κB signaling pathways neutralizes the tumor promoting immune component. Currently, IL-4R antagonists are in clinical trials for the treatment of asthma, which makes the translational prospects of this study extraordinarily viable. We are grateful for support from the NCI (CA116021-07, 5T32CA119925-03) and the Department of Veterans Affairs for these studies. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4403. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4403
Size-Exclusion Chromatography of Asphaltenes: An Experimental Comparison of Commonly Used Approaches

Asphaltenes, the heaviest and most polar fraction of crude oil, are responsible for the clogging of oil pipelines and of underground reservoir rocks. Asphaltenes are defined as a solubility class (toluene- or benzene-soluble, n-alkane insoluble), and a consensus is still lacking on the molar mass (M) averages, distribution, and range of these materials. Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) is among the most widely employed methods for characterizing the M averages and distributions of both natural and synthetic polymers and, as such, has seen widespread application in the study of asphaltenes. SEC analysis of asphaltenes presents a number of challenges, however, some inherent to all low-M materials and some unique to these particular analytes. Here, we have experimentally compared several of the most commonly used approaches to SEC of asphaltenes, in hope of both demonstrating the influence of experimental conditions upon the results obtained as well as to determine optimal conditions of analysis. In the end, while the former goal was met, the latter one remains an open challenge in the field.
The separation vortex in the Weis-Fogh circulation-generation mechanism

The influence of leading-edge separation vortices on the Weis-Fogh (1973) lift- generation mechanism for insect hovering is investigated. The analysis employs a vortex-shedding model (Edwards 1954; Cheng 1954) and represents an extension of Lighthill's (1973, 1975) analysis of an inviscid model without separated vortices. Results of the study compare reasonably well with observations on a laboratory model at high Reynolds number (Maxworthy 1979), confirming that vortex separation significantly enhances the initial circulation on each of the wings. Unlike the un- separated-model solution, this circulation was found to depend on the history of the wing motion and to increase with a large opening angle.
Magnetoresistance in bilayer graphene via ferromagnet proximity effects

A drastic modification of electronic band structure is predicted in bilayer graphene when it is placed between two ferromagnetic insulators. Due to the exchange interaction with the proximate ferromagnet, the electronic energy dispersion in the graphene channel strongly depends on the magnetization orientation of two ferromagnetic layers, ${\mathbf{M}}_{1}$ and ${\mathbf{M}}_{2}$. While the parallel configuration ${\mathbf{M}}_{1}={\mathbf{M}}_{2}$ leads to simple spin splitting of both conduction and valence bands, an energy gap is induced as soon as the angle $\ensuremath{\theta}$ between ${\mathbf{M}}_{1}$ and ${\mathbf{M}}_{2}$ becomes nonzero with the maximum achieved at $\ensuremath{\theta}=\ensuremath{\pi}$ (i.e., antiparallel alignment). Consequently, bilayer graphene may exhibit a sizable magnetoresistance effect in the current-in-plane configuration. A rough estimate suggests that the resistance changes on the order of tens of percent is possible at room temperature. This effect is expected to become more pronounced as the temperatures decreases.
Use of fluoroscopy in determining screw overshoot in the dorsal distal radius: a cadaveric study.

Purpose To determine the ability of standard fluoroscopic imaging to assess whether screws placed from volar to dorsal during distal radius plating have penetrated the dorsal cortex of the radius. Methods Hard-copy digital images of cadaveric distal radii with screws of different lengths penetrating the dorsal cortex of the radius were shown to practitioners. The group included attending hand surgeons and hand fellows in training at multiple institutions. The participants were then asked to determine, from multiple images presented, whether the screws penetrated the dorsal cortex of the radius or were acceptable in length. Results Much more accurate assessment of screw positioning occurred with radial screw positions. Experienced practitioners showed higher accuracy when evaluating screws in any position. Both groups showed the least accuracy in evaluating screws in the ulnar column of the radius. For all evaluators, fluoroscopy was found to be 82% sensitive at detecting cortical penetration in the radial-most position, 77% sensitive in the central position, and 57% sensitive in the ulnar position. Evaluators with >3 years in practice were able to detect incorrect screw positions with 100% sensitivity in the radial-most position, 90% in the central position, and 75% in the ulnar position. Inexperienced evaluators detected incorrect screw positioning with 70% sensitivity in the radial position, 61% centrally, and 56% ulnarly. Conclusions Accurate placement of screws used with volar fixation devices is important to avoid prominent hardware, especially screws that may penetrate dorsally into tendon compartments. Printed image intensifier images have limited sensitivity for the diagnosis of dorsal cortical penetration of a volarly inserted screw, particularly among less experienced observers and for the evaluation of the most ulnar screw positions.
Facile synthesis of MOF-5 confined in SBA-15 hybrid material with enhanced hydrostability.

A MOF-5 [Zn4O(BDC)3; BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate]@SBA-15 hybrid material has been prepared by using SBA-15 as a matrix. This hybrid material exhibits improved hydrostability under ambient conditions and unique gas adsorption behavior compared with pristine MOF-5.
Proton resonance study of antiferromagnetic FeCl2.4H2O

Abstract The proton resonance spectrum of FeCl 2 .4H 2 O has been examined in the temperature range 4.2°K to 0.35°K. We find: 4.2—1.1°K-lines characteristic of the paramagnetic state; 1.1—0.7°K — no lines; 0.7—0.35°K — lines characteristic of the antiferromagnetic state. Using the observed local fields and symmetry arguments a structure for the antiferromagnetic spin arrangement is proposed.
Infrared micro-thermography of an actively heated preconcentrator device

We report infrared micro-thermography measurements and analysis of static and transient temperature maps of an actively heated micro-fabricated preconcentrator device that incorporates a dual serpentine platinum heater trace deposited on a perforated polyimide membrane and suspended over a silicon frame. The sorbent coated perforated membrane is used to collect vapors and gases that flow through the preconcentrator. After heating, a concentrated pulse of analyte is released into the detector. Due to its small thermal mass, precise thermal management of the preconcentrator is critical to its performance. The sizes of features, the semi-transparent membrane, the need to flow air through the device, and changes in surface emissivity on a micron scale present many challenges for traditional infrared micro-thermography. We report an improved experimental test-bed. The hardware incorporates a custom-designed miniature calibration oven which, in conjunction with spatial filtering and a simple calibration algorithm, allows accurate temperature maps to be obtained. The test-bed incorporates a micro-bolometer array as the infrared imager. Instrumentation design, calibration and image processing algorithms are discussed and analyzed. The procedure does not require prior knowledge of the emissivity. We show that relatively inexpensive uncooled bolometers arrays can be used in certain radiometric applications. Heating profiles were examined with both uniform and non-uniform air flow through the device. The conclusions from this study provide critical information for optimal integration of the preconcentrator within a detection system, and in the design of the heater trace layout to achieve a more even temperature distribution across the device.
Core Competencies in Hospital Pharmacy — Drug Dispensing:

The next several Director's Forum articles will focus on core practices or competencies in hospital pharmacy practice. This series of articles will discuss the key fundamentals, resources, challeng...
Interaction of DNA with bovine lens α-crystallin: its functional implications

Abstract Under normal conditions, lens aggregates of α -crystallin subunits, α A and α B, are found in the cytoplasm. However, during stress in nonlenticular tissues, α B translocates to the nucleus. A sequence study revealed that both subunits share a consensus sequence with other DNA binding proteins. These observations prompted us to investigate DNA binding with α -crystallin by UV-mediated photo-crosslinking. The data show that both single and double stranded DNA crosslink mainly with tetramers of α -crystallin subunits. The formation of tetramers appears to modify α -crystallin interactive properties and, therefore, its induction may have functional significance. These observations suggest that α -crystallin may have a nuclear function which includes DNA binding.
A signal processing framework for simultaneous detection of multiple environmental contaminants

The possibility of large-scale attacks using chemical warfare agents (CWAs) has exposed the critical need for fundamental research enabling the reliable, unambiguous and early detection of trace CWAs and toxic industrial chemicals. This paper presents a unique approach for the identification and classification of simultaneously present multiple environmental contaminants by perturbing an electrochemical (EC) sensor with an oscillating potential for the extraction of statistically rich information from the current response. The dynamic response, being a function of the degree and mechanism of contamination, is then processed with a symbolic dynamic filter for the extraction of representative patterns, which are then classified using a trained neural network. The approach presented in this paper promises to extend the sensing power and sensitivity of these EC sensors by augmenting and complementing sensor technology with state-of-the-art embedded real-time signal processing capabilities.
A Health Policy Model of CKD: 2. The Cost-Effectiveness of Microalbuminuria Screening

Background Microalbuminuria screening may detect chronic kidney disease in its early stages, allowing for treatment that delays or prevents disease progression. The cost-effectiveness of microalbuminuria screening has not been determined. Study Design A cost-effectiveness model simulating disease progression and costs. Setting & Population US patients. Model, Perspective, and Timeframe The microsimulation model follows up disease progression and costs in a cohort of simulated patients from age 50 to 90 years or death. Costs are evaluated from the health care system perspective. Intervention Microalbuminuria screening at 1-, 2-, 5-, or 10-year intervals followed by treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers. We considered universal screening, as well as screening targeted at persons with diabetes, persons with hypertension but no diabetes, and persons with neither diabetes nor hypertension. Outcomes Costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. Results For the full model population, universal screening increases costs and increases QALYs. Universal annual screening starting at age 50 years has a cost-effectiveness ratio of $73,000/QALY relative to no screening and $145,000/QALY relative to usual care. Cost-effectiveness ratios improved with longer screening intervals. Relative to no screening, targeted annual screening has cost-effectiveness ratios of $21,000/QALY, $55,000/QALY, and $155,000/QALY for persons with diabetes, those with hypertension, and those with neither current diabetes nor current hypertension, respectively. Limitations Results necessarily are based on a microsimulation model because of the long time horizon appropriate for chronic kidney disease. The model includes only health care costs. Conclusions Microalbuminuria screening is cost-effective for patients with diabetes or hypertension, but is not cost-effective for patients with neither diabetes nor hypertension unless screening is conducted at longer intervals or as part of existing physician visits.
Ellipsoidal model for deformable drops and application to non-Newtonian emulsion flow

Abstract In honor of the extraordinary career of Professor Andreas Acrivos, we are pleased to present a study which combines his pioneering work on dilute emulsions of drops having small, ellipsoidal deformations with boundary-integral methods for single drops having large deformations, to model dilute emulsion flows of drops with large deformations. Each drop is approximated as an ellipsoid, with its orientation and the lengths of its axes varying due to its time history in a locally linear external flow field. The ordinary differential equations governing the time dependence of the coefficients which describe the ellipsoidal shape are derived based on volume conservation and a least-squares minimization of the difference between the ellipsoidal approximation and the exact boundary-integral description of the normal velocities at a small number of points on the drop interface. For single drops in linear shear and extensional flows, very good agreement in the dynamic drop shapes predicted by the ellipsoidal approximation and the full (exact) boundary-integral calculations is obtained. The utility of the ellipsoidal model is demonstrated by the example application of flow of a dilute emulsion of many deformable drops past a rigid sphere. Although the fluids internal and external to the drops are both Newtonian, the resultant behavior for deformable drops is weakly non-Newtonian. The drag force at small Reynolds number decreases slightly with increasing deformation, and the streamlines are perturbed from the Stoke’s solution and lose fore-and-aft symmetry due to drop deformation.
The effect of dislocation self-interaction on the Orowan stress

Abstract The effect of dislocation self-interaction on the Orowan stress was determined for collinear, impenetrable circular obstacles. The line tension approximation was dropped and an appropriate integro-differential equation governing static equilibrium was solved by an algorithm based on curvature adjustments. When the interactions are taken into account, the Orowan stress varies as In where is the harmonic mean of the obstacle size and spacing. In addition, the configuration of a bowing dislocation at the Orowan stress is strongly influenced by the interactions: as the interactions increase in strength, i.e. as the ratio of obstacle size to spacing decreases, the bow-out and area swept are suppressed. The essential features of the interaction can be incorporated into a line tension framework by treating the impenetrable obstacles as if they were penetrable. Based on this line tension analogue, an approximate form for the flow stress of a random distribution of impenetrable obstacles was developed.
Permeability of the Continental Crust: Dynamic Variations Inferred from Seismicity and Metamorphism

The variation of permeability with depth can be probed indirectly by various means, including hydrologic models that use geothermal data as constraints and the progress of metamorphic reactions driven by fluid flow. Geothermal and metamorphic data combine to indicate that mean permeability (k) of tectonically active continental crust decreases with depth (z) according to log k ! )14‐3.2 log z, where k is in m 2 and z in km. Other independently derived, crustal-scale k‐z relations are generally similar to this power-law curve. Yet there is also substantial evidence for local-to-regional-scale, transient, permeability-generation events that entail permeabilities much higher than these mean k‐z relations would suggest. Compilation of such data yields a fit to these elevated, transient values of log k ! )11.5‐3.2 log z, suggesting a functional form similar to that of tectonically active crust, but shifted to higher permeability at a given depth. In addition, it seems possible that, in the absence of active prograde metamorphism, permeability in the deeper crust will decay toward values below the mean k‐z curves. Several lines of evidence suggest geologically rapid (years to 10 3 years) decay of high-permeability transients toward background values. Crustal-scale k‐z curves may reflect a dynamic competition between permeability creation by processes such as fluid sourcing and rock failure, and permeability destruction by processes such as compaction, hydrothermal alteration, and retrograde metamorphism.