cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanotherapeutic Shots Through the Heart of Plaque

The past several decades have brought significant advances in the application of clinical and preclinical nanoparticulate drugs in the field of cancer, but nanodrug development in cardiovascular disease has lagged in comparison. Improved understanding of the spatiotemporal kinetics of nanoparticle delivery to atherosclerotic plaques is required to optimize preclinical nanodrug delivery and to drive their clinical translation. Mechanistic studies using super-resolution and correlative light microscopy/electron microscopy permit a broad, ultra-high-resolution picture of how endothelial barrier integrity impacts the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect for nanoparticles as a function of both atherosclerosis progression and metabolic therapy. Studies by Beldman et al. in the December issue of ACS Nano suggest atherosclerotic plaque progression supports endothelial junction stabilization, which can reduce nanoparticle entry into plaques, and metabolic therapy may induce similar effects. Herein, we ex...
Abstract B27: Kit inhibition decreases tumoral MHC class I expression in gastrointestinal stromal tumors through reduction of type I interferon signaling

Introduction: MHC class I (MHC I) expression is necessary for the antitumoral lymphocyte response but its relationship to oncogene signaling is not well characterized. Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a common sarcoma caused by an activating Kit mutation and is sensitive to the specific Kit inhibitor imatinib. Using KitV558I”/+ mice, a murine model of GIST, we found imatinib reduced MHC I expression on tumor cells, which we hypothesized was due to attenuation of type I interferon (IFN) signaling in the setting of oncogene inhibition. Methods: Using flow cytometry and Western blot, we studied tumoral MHC I expression in human GIST cell lines T1 and HG129 under conditions of IFN stimulation and imatinib inhibition. We applied the same methods in vivo in KitV558I”/+ mice. To show that IFN signaling was responsible for tumoral MHC I expression, we used a blocking anti-IFNAR antibody to abrogate IFN signaling in KitV558I”/+ mice. Finally, we validated our findings with RNA seq of 35 Kit exon 11 human GIST. Results: In human GIST cell lines, IFNα (1000U/mL) stimulated MHC I expression at 24h as measured on cell surface by mean florescence intensity (MFI) and by Western blot. This was accompanied by increased Stat1 and pStat1 protein. Imatinib (100nM) inhibited Stat1 activity and reduced MHC I expression by 12-34% on MFI, with and without IFNα stimulation. When Stat1 was knocked down with SiRNA, imatinib did not further decrease MHC I. In vivo, KitV558Δ/+ mice treated with imatinib had 50% reduction in tumoral MHC I expression MFI by flow (n=5/group). Concurrently, imatinib diminished mRNA expression of IFNb1 in bulk KitV558Δ/+ tumors by 8-fold. To demonstrate that IFN signaling contributed to GIST MHC I expression, we administered a blocking anti-IFNAR antibody in KitV558Δ/+ mice and found MHC I decreased by 34% on MFI, along with decreased pStat1 on western blot. In human GIST, imatinib significantly decreased MHC I gene expression on RNA seq (p = 0.03) and reduced IFNb1 mRNA by 77% (p = 0.04). Furthermore, there was significant correlation between MHC I genes and Stat1 expression (p Conclusion: Kit oncogene inhibition reduced MHC I expression in GIST through decreased type I interferon production and signaling via Stat1. Thus, targeted therapies may reduce the antitumor immune response. Citation Format: Mengyuan Liu, Benjamin D Medina, Geraldo A Vitiello, Mark S Etherington, Nesteene J. Param, Mia E DiLolle, Timothy G. Bowler, Ferdinando Rossi, Ronald P. DeMatteo. Kit inhibition decreases tumoral MHC class I expression in gastrointestinal stromal tumors through reduction of type I interferon signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2018 Nov 27-30; Miami Beach, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2020;8(4 Suppl):Abstract nr B27.
Abstract WP172: Advancing Age is a Predictor of Poor Collaterals

Introduction: Robust leptomeningeal collaterals protect the brain from ischemia, yet the determinants of poor collaterals have not been established. We aimed to identify predictors of poor collater...
Evaluation of image quality of wideband single-shot late gadolinium-enhancement MRI in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device.

INTRODUCTION While wideband segmented, breath-hold late gadolinium-enhancement (LGE) cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) has been shown to suppress image artifacts associated with cardiac-implanted electronic devices (CIEDs), it may produce image artifacts in patients with arrhythmia and/or dyspnea. Single-shot LGE is capable of suppressing said artifacts. We sought to compare the performance of wideband single-shot free-breathing LGE against the standard and wideband-segmented LGEs in CIED patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We retrospectively identified all 54 consecutive patients (mean age: 61 ± 15 years; 31% females) with CIED who had undergone CMR with standard segmented, wideband segmented, and/or wideband single-shot LGE sequences as part of quality assurance for determining best clinical practice at 1.5 T. Two raters independently graded the conspicuity of myocardial scar or normal myocardium and the presence of device artifact level on a 5-point Likert scale (1: worst; 3: acceptable; 5: best). Summed visual score (SVS) was calculated as the sum of conspicuity and artifact scores (SVS ≥ 6 defined as diagnostically interpretable). Median conspicuity and artifact scores were significantly better for wideband single-shot LGE (F = 24.2, p < .001) and wideband-segmented LGE (F = 20.6, p < .001) compared to standard-segmented LGE. Among evaluated myocardial segments, 72% were deemed diagnostically interpretable-defined as SVS ≥ 6-for standard-segmented LGE, 89% were deemed diagnostically interpretable for wideband-segmented LGE, and 94% segments were deemed diagnostically interpretable for wideband single-shot LGE. CONCLUSIONS Wideband single-shot LGE and wideband-segmented LGE produced similarly improved image quality compared to standard LGE.
Maternal Microdeletion at the H19/Igf2 ICR in Mice Increases Offspring Susceptibility to In Utero Environmental Perturbation:

Deficiency of methyl donor nutrients folate, choline, and methionine (methyl deficiency) during gestation can impair fetal development and perturb DNA methylation. Here, we assessed genetic suscept...
Biased Allosteric Modulators: New Frontiers in GPCR Drug Discovery

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of cell surface receptors in the genome and the most successful family of targets of FDA-approved drugs. New frontiers in GPCR drug discovery remain, however, as achieving receptor subtype selectivity and controlling off- and on-target side effects are not always possible with classic agonist and antagonist ligands. These challenges may be overcome by focusing development efforts on allosteric ligands that confer signaling bias. Biased allosteric modulators (BAMs) are an emerging class of GPCR ligands that engage less well-conserved regulatory motifs outside the orthosteric pocket and exert pathway-specific effects on receptor signaling. The unique ways that BAMs texturize receptor signaling present opportunities to fine-tune physiology and develop safer, more selective therapeutics. Here, we provide a conceptual framework for understanding the pharmacology of BAMs, explore their therapeutic potential, and discuss strategies for their discovery.
Social behaviors and HIV risk factors among men in Chad and Cameroon.

Introduction the neighboring Republics of Chad and Cameroon have respectively one of the lowest and highest HIV prevalence rates in central Africa at 1.3% and 4.5%, respectively. We conducted a comparative description of social behaviors and HIV risk factors among heterosexual men and explored the baseline of the first UNAIDS target (by 2020, 90% of people living with HIV will know their status) in the two countries. Methods this was a retrospective cross-sectional study using Demographic and Health Survey data. We fitted a separate multilevel logistic model for each country. In total, 5248 men were interviewed in Chad and 7191 men in Cameroon. Results Cameroonian men have a higher level of education, higher HIV testing rate, and are more knowledgeable about HIV than Chadian men. However, Chadian men have a lower number of lifetime sexual partners (2 interquartile range (IQR), 1-4) compared to Cameroonian men (6 IQR 3-15) and 86.96% of Chadian versus 57.30% of Cameroonian men reported fidelity to their domestic partners in the last twelve months. Conclusion there is a crucial need to encourage HIV screening and testing among Chadian men, especially in rural areas. Testing also needs to be increased in Cameroon to meet the first UNAIDS target. Government and partners in Cameroon could support more research and campaigns that aim at reducing multiple sexual partnerships among the communities in Cameroon.
Postpartum preeclampsia or eclampsia: defining its place and management among the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

High blood pressure in the postpartum period is most commonly seen in women with antenatal hypertensive disorders, but it can develop de novo in the postpartum time frame. Whether postpartum preeclampsia or eclampsia represents a separate entity from preeclampsia or eclampsia with antepartum onset is unclear. Although definitions vary, the diagnosis of postpartum preeclampsia should be considered in women with new-onset hypertension 48 hours to 6 weeks after delivery. New-onset postpartum preeclampsia is an understudied disease entity with few evidence-based guidelines to guide diagnosis and management. We propose that new-onset hypertension with the presence of any severe features (including severely elevated blood pressure in women with no history of hypertension) be referred to as postpartum preeclampsia after exclusion of other etiologies to facilitate recognition and timely management. Older maternal age, black race, maternal obesity, and cesarean delivery are all associated with a higher risk of postpartum preeclampsia. Most women with delayed-onset postpartum preeclampsia present within the first 7 to 10 days after delivery, most frequently with neurologic symptoms, typically headache. The cornerstones of treatment include the use of antihypertensive agents, magnesium, and diuresis. Postpartum preeclampsia may be associated with a higher risk of maternal morbidity than preeclampsia with antepartum onset, yet it remains an understudied disease process. Future research should focus on the pathophysiology and specific risk factors. A better understanding is imperative for patient care and counseling and anticipatory guidance before hospital discharge and is important for the reduction of maternal morbidity and mortality in the postpartum period.
Federal reserve appointments and the politics of senate confirmation

This paper examines the politicization of Federal Reserve (Fed) appointments. In contrast to the extant appointment literature’s almost exclusive focus on ideological proximity as a predictor of Fed nominations and confirmations, I theorize that senators will be more likely to vote against confirmation when their constituents have little confidence in the Fed because it allows them to more credibly defer blame on the Fed for economic downturns. Drawing on novel estimates of state-level confidence in the Fed as well as new common space estimates of senators’ and central bankers’ monetary policy preferences, I demonstrate that when constituents do not have confidence in the Fed, senators are less likely to vote in favor of confirmation regardless of their ideological proximity to the nominee. The results have important implications for the ability to fill Fed vacancies and, in turn, the balance of power between the Fed and regional bank Presidents in the monetary policymaking process.
Investigating the Goldilocks Hypothesis: The Non-Linear Impact of Positive Trait Change on Well-Being.

This paper attempts to reconcile two perspectives on the impact of positive trait change. The first perspective views positive trait change as salubrious because it reflects the process of self-enhancement, whereas the second perspective views positive change as costly because it disrupts the self-verification process. We propose that benefits and costs accrue at discrete rates, such that moderate positive trait change is more beneficial than too little and too much positive change. This constitutes a Goldilocks hypothesis. Using the MIDUS longitudinal dataset (N = 1,725) we test this hypothesis on four traits, namely, social extraversion, agentic extraversion (agency), conscientiousness, and neuroticism. The Goldilocks hypothesis was supported for social extraversion, agentic extraversion (agency), and conscientiousness. Reduction in neuroticism seemed uniformly predictive of higher well-being. Thus, not all amounts of positive trait change are beneficial. While we find no evidence for a limit to the benefits of reduced neuroticism, there is a “just right” amount of positive change in extraversion and conscientiousness that results in the highest level of well-being. Our findings suggest that non-monotonic models may be more valid in investigations of personality change and well-being.
ConExSIR: A Dialogue-based Framework of Design Team Thinking and Discovery

Summary. This research presents a dialog-based framework of design team thinking and discovery that synthesizes an inquiry-based design thinking model and a con-ceptual-exploration process model. The framework is applied in order to code the dialog acts of teams engaged in conceptual design activity, and measure designteam processes related to generating design alternatives and making decisions. Preliminary results highlight relationships between the two models, and support the tentative conclusion that team performance on a conceptual design task is positively correlated with the frequency of a dialogue act termed, “limit-handling.” Remaining challenges include fully integrating and validating prior models and validating dialogue facilitation techniques to support conceptual design, decision analysis, and risk analysis.
Effect of purine synthesis inhibition on WiDr spheroids in vitro or on WiDr or colon 38 tumors in vivo: Complete growth inhibition but not regression

Clinical responses for anticancer agents are based upon tumor regression. We have investigated the potential of glycineamide ribonucleotide transformylase (GAR TFase) inhibitors to produce regressions in multiple preclinical models of colon carcinoma. The growth of multicellular tumor spheroids of WiDr human colon carcinoma was inhibited by the GAR TFase inhibitors 5-deazaacyclotetrahydrofolate (5-DACTHF), its 2'-fluoro, 3'-fluoro, 10-deaza, and 10-thia analogs as well as 5,10-dideazatetrahydrofolate, but none of the compounds caused spheroid regressions. By contrast, complete spheroid disruption was observed with exposure to etoposide, m-AMSA (amsacrine), piritrexim, or 2-desamino-2-methyl-10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate (DMPDDF). Light microscopy of the spheroids treated with either 5-DACTHF or DMPDDF suggested that the reason for the difference is extensive cell kill throughout the spheroid in the presence of DMPDDF compared with little or no kill, over that found in controls, with 5-DACTHF. Treatment of spheroids with 5-DACTHF in the presence of 1 microM hypoxanthine resulted in no significant reversal of growth inhibition; 50% reversal required 10 microM hypoxanthine. The spheroid studies were extended to in vivo studies examining the effects of 5-DACTHF on established WiDr and colon 38 tumors. The results showed that, in contrast to melphalan, which produced cures and tumor regressions, 5-DACTHF produced reversible growth inhibition with no significant regression of tumors. The results predict that clinical response, typically measured by tumor regression, may be rare following single agent therapy with inhibitors of de novo purine biosynthesis.
UV Photobiology: DNA Damage and Repair

Photobiology deals with the interaction of light and living systems. However, we will talk about only one kind of photobiology: the interaction of light in the wavelength range 200–300 nm (ultraviolet light) and its interaction with biological systems, in specific, living cells (1).
Axon Withdrawal during Synapse Elimination at the Neuromuscular Junction Is Accompanied by Disassembly of the Postsynaptic Specialization and Withdrawal of Schwann Cell Processes

Nerve terminal withdrawal is accompanied by a loss of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at corresponding postsynaptic sites during the process of synapse elimination at developing () and reinnervated adult () neuromuscular junctions. Aside from AChR and nerve terminal loss, however, the molecular and cellular alterations that occur at sites of elimination are unknown. To gain a better understanding of the cascade of events that leads to the disassembly of synaptic sites during the synapse elimination process, we surveyed the distribution of molecular elements of the postsynaptic specialization, the basal lamina, and supporting Schwann cells during the process of synapse elimination that occurs after reinnervation. In addition, quantitative techniques were used to determine the temporal order of disappearance of molecules that were lost relative to the loss of postsynaptic AChRs. We found that the dismantling of the postsynaptic specialization was inhomogeneous, with evidence of rapid dissolution of some aspects of the postsynaptic apparatus and slower loss of others. We also observed a loss of Schwann cell processes from sites of synapse elimination, with a time course similar to that seen for nerve terminal retraction. In contrast, all of the extracellular markers that we examined were lost slowly from sites of synapse loss. We therefore conclude that the synapse elimination process is synapse-wide, removing not only nerve terminals but also Schwann cells and many aspects of the postsynaptic apparatus. The disassembly occurs in a stereotyped sequence with some synaptic elements appearing much more stable than others.
DeXteR: an extensible framework for declarative parameter passing in distributed object systems

In modern distributed object systems, reference parameters are passed to a remote method based on their runtime type. We argue that such type-based parameter passing is limiting with respect to expressiveness, readability, and maintainability, and that parameter passing semantics should be decoupled from parameter types. We present declarative parameter passing, an approach that fully decouples parameter passing semantics from parameter types in distributed object systems. In addition, we describe DeXteR, an extensible framework for transforming a type-based remote parameter passing model to a declaration-based model transparently. Our framework leverages aspect-oriented and generative programming techniques to enable adding new remote parameter passing semantics, without requiring detailed understanding of the underlying middleware implementation. Our approach is applicable to both application and library code and incurs negligible performance overhead. We validate the expressive power of our framework by adding several non-trivial remote parameter passing semantics (i.e., copy-restore, lazy, streaming) to Java RMI.
Requirements for the Mu2e Production Solenoid Heat and Radiation Shield

This paper describes the Heat and Radiation Shield (HRS). It serves to protect the superconducting coils of the Mu2e Production Solenoid (PS) from the intense radiation generated by the 8 GeV kinetic energy primary proton beam striking the production target within the warm bore of the PS. This shield also protects the coils in the far upstream end of the Transport Solenoid (TS), a straight section of coils called TS1, at the exit from the PS. The HRS aperture should allow the maximum stopping rate of negative muons in the Detector Solenoid stopping target. Requirements to the Heat and Radiation Shield are discussed in the paper. Work supported by Fermi Research Alliance, LLC under contract No. DE-AC02-07CH11359 with the U.S. Department of Energy. § Corresponding author. Email: vspron@fnal.gov
Creaming-Skimming, Parking and Other Intended and Unintended Effects of Performance-Based Contracting in Social Welfare Services

In a growing number of countries, the delivery of social welfare services is contracted out to private providers, and increasingly, using performance-based contracts. Critics of performance-based incentive contracts stress their potential unintended effects, including cream-skimming and other gaming activities intended to raise measured performance outcomes. We analyze the incentive effects of performance-based contracts, as well as their impacts on provider job placement rates, using unique data on Dutch cohorts of unemployed and disabled workers that were assigned to private social welfare providers in 2002-2005. We take advantage of variation in contract design over this period, where procured contracts gradually moved from partial performance-contingent pay to contracts with 100%-performance contingent reward schemes, and analyze the impact of these changes using panel data that allow us to control for cohort types and to develop explicit measures of selection into the programs. We find evidence of cream-skimming and other gaming activities on the part of providers but little impact of these activities on job placement rates. Overall, moving to a system with contract payments fully contingent on performance appears to increase job placements for more readily employable workers, although it does not affect the duration of their jobs.
Information Technology vis-à-vis Public Administration and Security Services: An Analysis of “FINDER” and “POLNET”

The purpose of this analysis is to examine and assess the quality and roles of two different criminal justice information technology (IT) security systems—that is, the Florida Integrated Network for Data Exchange and Retrieval (FINDER) and the Police Computer Network and Information System of Turkey (POLNET). By delineating and analyzing the differences and similarities between these security programs, as well as the impact of IT on government and governance services, our goal is to demonstrate the power of these instruments in the private and public sectors.
An Empirical Analysis of Consumers' Attitudes Toward Legal Services Advertising

Abstract The purpose of this study is to investigate current attitudes and opinions of lawyer advertising and to compare them to the attitudes expressed 15 years ago. This study was designed to determine (a) consumers' attitudes toward advertising by attorneys and (b) whether age, occupation, income, education, and/or sex of consumer accounted for any significant difference in attitudes toward attorneys who advertise. This study investigates possible changes in attitudes of consumers toward lawyer advertising over a 15-year period. It replicates a survey done in 1988 and uses the same questionnaire and the same population to compare responses longitudinally. The study seems to confirm the belief of many marketing professionals that advertising and marketing clearly have a place in the future of legal services. Although the present image of lawyers is not positive, most of the 2003 respondents agreed that it is proper for lawyers to advertise. The study also confirmed that quality of service and the reputa...
The Geology of the Chestnut Ridge Caves

The Chestnut Ridge caves consist of the Chestnut Ridge System itself with more than 20 miles of surveyed passages and also a line of smaller caves strung out southwestward along the axis of the ridge. The Chestnut Ridge System contains two branches that converge at the northeast end. The eastern branch is a north-south trend that cuts across the structure and contains segments of maze formed on joints oblique to the main trend. At the southwestern end is the Burns section with streams that drain to Cathedral Spring. The western branch is strike-oriented along the trend of Chestnut Ridge. It includes the Burnsville Turnpike, the largest passage in the system, and includes along the trend line the other caves and also the main trunk of Barberry Cave. Steams in this section drain to Aqua Spring and thus the Chestnut Ridge System displays and underground drainage divide. The system has multiple levels and also many shafts and later-stage modifications.
Oxalate Deposition on Asbestos Bodies

We report on a deposition of oxalate crystals on ferruginous bodies after occupational exposure to asbestos demonstrated in 3 patients. We investigated the mechanism and possible significance of this deposition by testing the hypothesis that oxalate generated through nonenzymatic oxidation of ascorbate by asbestos-associated iron accounts for the deposition of the crystal on a ferruginous body. Crocidolite asbestos (1000 microg/mL) was incubated with 500 micromol H(2)O(2) and 500 micromol ascorbate for 24 hours at 22 degrees C. The dependence of oxalate generation on iron-catalyzed oxidant production was tested with the both the metal chelator deferoxamine and the radical scavenger dimethylthiourea. Incubation of crocidolite, H(2)O(2), and ascorbate in vitro generated approximately 42 nmol of oxalate in 24 hours. Oxalate generation was diminished significantly by the inclusion of either deferoxamine or dimethylthiourea in the reaction mixture. Incubation of asbestos bodies and uncoated fibers isolated from human lung with 500 micromol H(2)O(2) and 500 micromol ascorbate for 24 hours at 22 degrees C resulted in the generation of numerous oxalate crystals. We conclude that iron-catalyzed production of oxalate from ascorbate can account for the deposition of this crystal on ferruginous bodies.
Ni and/or Co nanoparticles as catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at room temperature

Abstract Unsuccessful attempts in using Ni and/or Co nanoparticles as catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are reported. Several synthetic approaches such as encapsulation of nanoparticles in dendrimers, coating by polyethylene glycol and surface modification by anthraquinone were carried out to isolate the nanoparticles from aqueous corrosive media and to prevent their agglomeration at very low and very high pH. In all the attempts described, negative results towards ORR were consistently obtained. On the contrary, in the case of cobalt incorporated in a polypyrrole matrix (Co–Ppy–C) a catalytic activity for oxygen reduction both in acidic and alkaline medium was observed. The data indicate that neither Ni nor Co surface sites, when not coordinated to the matrix nitrogen, are electroactive towards oxygen reduction, pointing out the crucial role of the heteroatom associated with (coordinating) transition metals in the ORR catalytic process. We believe that our data are in agreement with literature although the reported data scarcity does not make the full conclusion possible. All results were obtained at room temperature, the catalytic activity of the synthesized materials at elevated temperatures are unknown.
Upper Permian lacustrine organic facies evolution, Southern Junggar Basin, NW China

Abstract The Jingjingzigou, Lucaogou, and Hongyanchi Formations of the southern Junggar basin together comprise over 1000 m of organic-rich lacustrine facies. They record an overall evolution from relatively shallow, evaporative lakes to freshwater lakes associated with fluvial systems. The Jingjingzigou Formation is characterized by low TOC and HI, and biomarker features (such as abundant β-carotane) consistent with a specialized saline or hypersaline biota. Biomarker distributions in Jingjingzigou Formation extracts most closely resemble oils from the giant Karamay oilfield. The Lucaogou Formation represents one of the richest and thickest lacustrine source rock intervals in the world, yet it contradicts conventional lacustrine source rock models in at least two important aspects. First, deposition occurred at middle paleolatitudes (39–43°N) rather than in the tropics. Second, limited nutrient supply in a drainage basin dominated by intermediate volcanic rocks appears to have caused low to moderate primary productivities. Stable salinity stratification and low inorganic sedimentation rates in a deep lake nonetheless resulted in deposits with up to 20% TOC and HI near 800. The overlying Hongyanchi Formation has 1–5% TOC but low HI, and was deposited in freshwater oxic to sub-oxic lakes.
Combining monte carlo and cox tests of non-nested hypotheses

The problem of deriving reliable tests for separate families of hypotheses is discussed. Two competing methodologies for testing hypotheses from separate distributional families, the classical asymptotic approach of Cox [1961,1962] and more modern methods using Monte Carlo or parametric bootstrap simulation, are contrasted. It is shown that the two methods can be combined to form a test with excellent statistical properties. Variants of simulation-based tests are discussed. In addition, simple computational strategies using parallel computers are described that can be used to reduce the combined test's heavy simulation load.
Tissue engineering of the bladder

When gastrointestinal tissue is used for bladder augmentation or replacement, multiple complications may ensue, such as infection, metabolic disturbances, urolithiasis, perforation, increased mucous production, and malignancy. Therefore, alternative methods are being sought for cystoplasty. There has been a resurgence of interest in the use of acellular collagen-based matrices as scaffolds for bladder regeneration. Experimental work involving several collagen matrices, such as allogenic bladder and intestinal tissues, is currently being conducted in several academic centers. Recently, functional bladder tissue has been engineered using selective cell transplantation. The approach that has been followed for bioengineering of bladder tissue involves the use of autologous cells, thus avoiding rejection, whereby a biopsy of tissue is obtained from the host, after which the cells are dissociated and expanded in vitro, reattached to a matrix, and implanted into the same host.
A clustering technique for long local computer networks

Abstract A multistage switch connection approach to improve the performance of large local computer networks is devised. The single large LAN is partitioned into smaller networks and these networks are interconnected by a Delta multistage butterfly switch. The performance of the single large network and the proposed partitioned network have been modeled and simulated using SIMSCRIPT II.5. The scheme has been applied to the token bus topology as a case study. It has been shown that the throughput of the proposed partitioned network is increased and there is a significant decrease in the average packet delay compared to the single large network.
Bilateral Mesenchymal Hamartoma of the Chest Wall in an Infant Boy

Mesenchymal chest wall hamartoma is an extremely rare tumor striking neonates and infants. Histologically, the tumor is composed of islands of hyaline cartilage intermixed with mesenchymal-like stroma and hemorrhagic cysts. We present a case of a congenital bilateral mesenchymal chest wall hamartoma (MCWH) in an infant boy. This extremely rare benign entity may be misdiagnosed as malignant tumor and shares features with another tumor of childhood–fibrocartilagenous mesenchymoma of bone.
Stigma experience among adolescents taking psychiatric medication

Abstract This study investigated the experience of stigma among adolescents taking psychiatric medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental illness. Although medications are intended to improve functioning and reduce mental disorder symptoms, little research has examined the potential stigma associated with taking them. This study recruited forty adolescents, ages 12–17, who met DSM-IV criteria for a mental health disorder and who were taking a psychiatric medication at the time of the study. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview instrument and were thematically analyzed using Link, Cullen, Struening, Shrout, and Dohrenwend's (1989) modified model of labeling theory. Results indicate that many adolescents did experience stigma. In particular, 90% of the sample endorsed at least one of Link et al.'s (1989) constructs of secrecy, shame, and limiting social interaction; four endorsed no stigma themes. Additional themes emerged indicating that the perceptions of adolescents' family members and school environments can accentuate their experience of stigma or serve as a protective barrier against it. The thematic findings of secrecy and shame were used to construct hypothetical models for how adolescents limited their social interaction.
Evidence for reutilization of nodule iron in soybean seed development

Abstract Iron (Fe) is required in plants for the function of the important processes of photosynthesis, respiration, DNA synthesis, and nitrogen (N) fixation. Concentrations of Fe show tissue specific changes during development. In soybean seeds, Fe accumulates through the linear phase of seed development, but the source of seed Fe, whether remobilized from other tissues or taken from the root environment, is not known. Root nodules of legumes have higher concentrations of Fe than other vegetative organs. To examine whether nodules could provide Fe to the seeds, two cultivars (Tokyo and Arksoy), differing in seed ferritin and Fe content were grown in a phytotron and given a single dose of 59Fe‐EDTA early in development [15 days after inoculation with Bradyrhizobium (DAI)]. The 59Fe distribution as well as immunoreactive ferritin were examined throughout development in nodule, leaf, and seed tissue. Leaves, nodules, and seeds accounted for 75 to 87% of the total plant 59Fe throughout the reproductive perio...
Disorders of prolactin secretion.

Prolactinomas are the most common of the hormone-secreting pituitary tumors. Rarely life-threatening, they cause symptoms primarily as a result of hyperprolactinemia, which results in alterations in reproductive/sexual function but may also cause symptoms because of mass effects. Fortunately, medical and surgical therapies are excellent, and most patients do well. In addition to prolactinomas, a variety of other conditions may cause hyperprolactinemia. Because of the lack of specificity of imaging techniques, these entities must be considered in evaluating the hyperprolactinemic patient.
THE NUCLEATION OF MICROCELLULAR FOAMS IN SEMI CRYSTALLINE THERMOPLASTICS

ABSTRACT The nucleation of microcellular foams in amorphous thermoplastics has been performed by supersaturation with gas at an elevated temperature. Pressure and temperature are then carefully reduced in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature of the material. The result is a foam structure with cells on the order of 10 microns. This material exhibits greatly increased impact strength, as well as thermal and electrical insulation properties as compared to conventional foams. A new process has been developed to produce microcellular foams in semi-crystalline polymers. The process operates in the vicinity of the polymer's melting point, as opposed to the glass transition point. This is due the low solubility of the gases in and the rigidity of the crystalline phase. Microcellular foams have been produced successfully in polypropylene. The effects of various additives have been investigated experimentally. The theory developed for the amorphous materials has been compared to these new experimental ...
Trivacancy recovery and formation of a cubic symmetry defect trap on111In impurities in Ni

Using perturbed angular correlations we studied the formation of a cubic symmetry defect trap in Ni near 350 K following plastic deformation at 295 K. The trap has been identified structurally as a trivacancy trap. The evolution of the defect-free and cubic trap site populations in the course of isochronal and isothermal annealing experiments leads to the conclusion that the cubic trap forms by simple trapping, and that the capture radius of the cubic trap for additional defects is very small.
Adaptive codebook for beamforming in limited feedback MIMO systems

We propose a new scheme for limited feedback in MIMO systems. We consider transmit beamforming and receiver maximal ratio combining as a base for our work, and propose a novel beamforming codebook to exploit the inherent correlation of the channel. This novel beamforming codebook, unlike the conventional beamforming codebooks, adaptively changes with the channel matrix. Moreover, the adaptive approach is independent of the channel model and can be applied to any general MIMO channel with temporal and spatial correlations. Simulation results show that compared to previously known beamforming schemes, this technique significantly improves the BER performance in spatio-temporally correlated channels.
Triviality of higher derivative theories

Abstract We show that some higher derivative theories have a BRST symmetry. This symmetry is due to the higher derivative structure and is not associated to any gauge invariance. If physical states are defined as those in the BRST cohomology then the only physical state is the vacuum. All negative norm states, characteristic of higher derivative theories, are removed from the physical sector. As a consequence, unitarity is recovered but the S-matrix is trivial. We show that a class of higher derivative quantum gravity theories have this BRST symmetry so that they are consistent as quantum field theories. Furthermore, this BRST symmetry may be present in both relativistic and non-relativistic systems.
Source apportionment of fine particles utilizing partially speciated carbonaceous aerosol data at two rural locations in New York State

Abstract A source apportionment study was conducted at two rural locations, Potsdam and Stockton, to assess the in-state/out-of-state sources of PM2.5 and Hg in New York State. At both locations, samples were collected between November 2002 and August 2005 and analyzed for fine PM mass and its chemical constituents. The measured chemical constituents included elements, cations, anions, organic and elemental carbon (OC and EC), black carbon (BC), and water-soluble short-chain (WSSC) organic acids. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) was applied to the measured concentrations and eight and seven factors were resolved at Potsdam and Stockton, respectively. Four factors were resolved in common between the two locations including secondary sulfate, secondary nitrate, secondary OC, and a crustal factor. The factor profiles of mixed industrial and motor vehicle factors resolved at Potsdam were different compared with the corresponding profiles for these factors at Stockton. A resuspended road salt factor was identified at Potsdam, while an aged sea salt factor was identified at Stockton. At Potsdam, a wood smoke factor was also resolved. Among the resolved factors, secondary sulfate was the highest contributor to the measured mass at both sites. Potential source contribution function (PSCF) analysis indicated the Ohio River Valley region as a common potential source region for this factor at both locations. For the secondary nitrate factor, at Potsdam PSCF analysis indicated the Midwestern US (NOx emissions), and the US farm belt (ammonia emissions) as potential source regions, while at Stockton, the Midwestern US (power plant NOx emissions) was indicated as a major potential source region.
GIH clinical research 2003–2004: The year in review

This article summarizes the clinical research advances in gastroenterology and hepatology that were reviewed during the Plenary Session of the American Gastroenterological Association's Annual Meeting in May 2004 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The clinical research advances included the efficacy of infliximab in the treatment of fistulizing Crohn's disease, survival after isolated intestinal transplantation, the role of endoscopic treatment of bleeding peptic ulcers and Barrett's esophagus, the recurrence of cancer after laparoscopic colectomy, the impact of microsatellite instability on the response to adjuvant chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), the epidemiology of obesity and its response to low-carbohydrate diets, the potential role of gastrointestinal factors in the development of obesity, and, the newly appreciated condition, autoimmune pancreatitis with associated cholangitis. Clinical research advances will impact the management of digestive diseases.
Behavior of the Excited Deformed Band and Search for Shape Isomerism in 184 Hg

The new isotope $^{184}\mathrm{Tl}$ has been identified with ${T}_{\frac{1}{2}}=11\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1$ sec and the levels in $^{184}\mathrm{Hg}$ investigated from its decay. The ${0}^{+}$ band head of a deformed band was found to drop to 375 keV in agreement with theoretical predictions. The mean life of the 375-keV ${0}^{+}$ level was measured to be 0.9 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.3 nsec which is a factor of 10 faster than theoretically predicted for a shape-isomeric $E2$ transition.
Relaxation-time approximation for the mobility of electrons in helium.

Electron mobility in He, using irreversible quantum statistics theory to obtain momentum dependent relaxation time
Moisture loss of sweet onions during curing

Abstract A study has been conducted whereby the moisture loss of sweet onions during curing has been observed. Sweet onions ‘Granex 33’ were harvested at three stages of maturity either early, optimal or late. Bulbs were artificially cured for durations of either 24, 48, 72 or 96 h. They were cured at three depths, referred to as being at the bottom, middle or at the top of a stack of onions in curing chambers 1.2 m high. Harvest maturity had the greatest influence on the variation of moisture loss during curing, diminishing from 10.1%-early, to 7.3%-optimal, to 5.9%-late. Duration of curing influenced moisture loss ranging from 7.2%/24 h to 10.3%/96 h at an independent linear estimate of 1.53%/24 h. Depth had a limited effect on the variation of moisture loss. Local ambient conditions also influenced moisture loss. As a result of the study it was concluded that moisture loss of sweet onions during curing is sufficiently important to deserve consideration, especially for early harvested onions. Though curing helps to extend the shelf life of sweet onions, it also reduces the mass of onions available for retail.
Aortic regurgitation and aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva associated with osteogenesis imperfecta

Abstract A case of osteogenesis imperfecta with aortic regurgitation is described. The patient is the first whose aortic root abnormalities accounting for the aortic regurgitation were characterized by cardiac catheterization and angiography. The patient had a dilated aortic valve ring and an aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva. The similarity of these findings to the cardiovascular abnormalities found in other types of connective tissue disorders is discussed and a common cause is suggested.
Coexistence of lichen planus and systemic lupus erythematosus

Three cases of the simultaneous occurrence of lichen planus (LP) and systemic tupus erythematosus (SLE) are presented. Each patient had clinical, histologic, and immunopathologic LP. Additionally, each patient had clinical SLE that fulfilled the American Rheumatism Association criteria for the diagnosis of SLE. The clinical manifestations of SLE were predominantly cutaneous. The three patients had positive lupus band test and high titers of antinuclear antibodies. One patient had vitiligo in addition to SLE and LP. LP and SLE have common clinical, histologic, and immunopathologic features. It is possible that a common agent (or agents) may cause either disease or the overlap syndrome, depending on the immunogenetic predisposition of the patient. (J AM ACAD DERMATOL 7:478-483, 1982.)
Stimulation and modulation of adenylate cyclase by Sendai virus.

Abstract Stimulation of adenylate cyclase activity occurs in membranes prepared from toad erythrocytes preincubated briefly (at 37° or 4°) with ultraviolet light-inactivated Sendai virus. Stimulation occurs with as few as five virions per cell, and it is blocked by pretreating the virus with the membrane glycolipid, ganglioside GM 1 . Virus treatment also alters modulation of adenylate cyclase by hormones, nucleotides and sodium fluoride. Interactions of viral envelope antigens with plasma membrane components may thus elicit functional changes possibly important in the pathogenesis of viral infections.
Remote experiment and correlation with innovation process

Correlation between innovation and remote experiment development is in fact correlation between practical experimentation and R&D development. In face to face learning the student employ one assembly for one experiment so that its inference rules are not developed too much. In the case of the remote experiment, the student has the possibility to access many assemblies for the same experiment, so that convergent thinking used in the face to face learning is moved towards divergent thinking with positive influence on his inference rules and innovation possibilities. In the paper we want to stress also the correlation between innovation and remote experiment sustained by the management of training process. In fact the decision of the remote experiment introduction in the curricula is a managerial decision. The management system of high education must accept that increasing innovativeness is not only individual asset but also a strategic decision of the existed management, with favorable results.
The IR nurse's role with trauma patients

Abstract Violence in the United States has become a problem of near epidemic proportions. Whether intentional or accidental, more people each day experience trauma-related injuries resulting in death or permanent long-term related injuries. Firearm injuries in particular have become an important and increasingly public and social health issue. The University of Pennsylvania Medical Center in Philadelphia is a Level I trauma center that handles approximately one gunshot victim per day in an average year. Its vascular and interventional radiology and neuroradiology departments are frequently consulted and asked to intervene with treating and diagnosing these trauma patients. The main purpose of this presentation is to educate and enhance the knowledge base of the IR nurse as it pertains to the physical, psychological, and social needs of the trauma patient and the resources and tools available to improve and provide the best overall care possible. This presentation began with a general overview of national statistics of all types of trauma injuries in the United States and then proceeded to a more in-depth analysis of the Penn Trauma Center and the nationally recognized Firearm Injury Center at Penn (FICAP). The role of the IR nurse and the need for the nursing staff to have a wide variety of educational opportunities to maintain the proper skill level were discussed. The highlight of the presentation included an impressive case study of a 23-year-old man who sustained life-threatening gunshot wounds. Included were digital photographs of the case in progress. The course of treatment before arriving at the IR department, during, and after the intervention in IR was explained as well as the patient's subsequent lengthy hospitalization and dramatic outcome.
Orbital hyperostosis following exenteration.

Purpose To report the development of unilateral, diffuse hyperostosis of orbital bones in 3 postexenteration patients. Methods Three advanced cases of periorbital and orbital malignancies are presented, and their clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic features are reviewed. Results Postexenteration CT showed thickened orbital walls in all 3 cases. The histopathology revealed necrotic destruction of the trabeculae mixed with randomly distributed chronic inflammatory cells and fibrosis and inflamed overlying granulation tissue. Conclusion The delayed healing of the granulation tissue during secondary intention in these cases is quite likely the cause of chronic osteitis of the underlying orbital bone that, in turn, led to postoperative diffuse hyperostosis.