cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Novel Reduced-Order Prioritized Optimization Method for Radiation Therapy Treatment Planning

In this study, a novel reduced order prioritized algorithm is presented for optimization in radiation therapy treatment planning. The proposed method consists of three stages. In the first stage, the intensity space was sampled by solving a series of unconstrained optimization problems. The objective function of the first stage is expressed as a scalarized weighted sum of partial objectives for the target and organ at risk. Latin hypercube sampling was utilized to define the weights for each run of the unconstrained optimizations. In the second stage, principal component analysis is applied to the solutions determined in the first stage to identify the major eigen modes in the intensities space, significantly reducing the number of independent variables. In the third stage, treatment planning goals/objectives are prioritized, and the problem is solved in the reduced order space. After each objective is optimized, that objective function is converted into a constraint for the lower-priority objectives. In the current formulation, a slip factor is used to relax the hard constraints for planning target volume (PTV) coverage. The applicability of the proposed method is demonstrated for one prostate and one lung intensity-modulated radiation therapy treatment plan. Upon completion of the sequential prioritized optimization, the mean dose at the rectum and bladder was reduced by 21.3% and 22.4%, respectively. Additionally, we investigated the effect of the slip factor `s' on PTV coverage and we found minimal degradation of the tumor dose (~4%). Finally, the speed up factors upon the dimensionality reduction were as high as 49.9 without compromising the quality of the results.
A complete general valence force field for secondary chlorides

Abstract A general valence force field for secondary chlorides has been refined which includes torsional force constants based on assignments of low frequency modes in model compounds. This force field also incorporates force constants related to observed intermolecular interactions. The good agreement between observed and calculated frequencies indicates that this force field will be useful in studying the conformation of secondary chlorides.
Promoting Active Learning in Developmental Biology Using the Japanese Medaka (Oryzias latipes) as an Experimental Model

We use the Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) as an animal model for developmental studies in our introductory biology courses. These courses are designed for Elementary Education majors and students in non-science degree programs. Introduction to the topic involves observation of live medaka embryos at various stages of development. These observations are guided by video clips and still photographs, which have been incorporated into an interactive computer presentation. In subsequent labs, students perform experiments that, they have designed, which utilize medaka embryos. Most choose to test the effect of various environmental treatments on normal development. We plan to end this unit with a “medaka symposium' in which the students will present data from their own experiments in posters or talks. We hope to reinforce students’ confidence in their ability to perform and understand scientific investigation. Students have been very favorable in their evaluation of the medaka unit as a learning tool.
Nimodipine as an add-on therapy for intractable epilepsy

Objective To analyze the effect of nimodipine in patients with intractable epilepsy. Design We conducted a double-blind placebocontrolled crossover study in 95 patients. Material and Methods The dihydropyridine calcium antagonist nimodipine was used as add-on therapy (60 mg four times a day) in a 1-year placebo-controlled crossover study in 71 patients with localization-related epilepsy and 24 with generalized seizure disorders. Of the 95 patients, 81 were receiving two or more antiepileptic drugs. Patient diaries were used to record the number of seizures and any side effects. Results Nimodipine seemed to be well tolerated during the study; only two patients were unable to complete the study because of probable adverse effects. The trial demonstrated no significant crossover effect and no significanteffect of nimodipine on either the mean or the median number of seizures or seizure days. The peak median serum nimodipine level was less than 5 ng/mL in the 78 patients who completed the study. Conclusion This clinical trial found no beneficial effect with use of nimodipine as add-on therapy for intractable epilepsy. Potential reasons for the absence of efficacy of nimodipine may be the inclusion of patients with very refractory seizure disorders or the relatively low serum nimodipine concentrations related to the pharmacokinetic effect of concurrent antiepileptic medication.
Sibling Therapy: A Blend of Family and Group Therapy.

Abstract Sibling therapy combines aspects from both group and family therapy, yet it offers treatment possibilities not available to either. Three similar concepts, goals, stages, and interventions are described, with clinical examples of each
From Sioux City to the X-33

Abstract The history of the “Propulsion Controlled Aircraft (PCA)” problem is reviewed. While there had been repeated warnings that life-threatening hydraulic failure in a modern airliner can occur despite an estimated probability of 10-9, only after the Sioux City accident was the possibility of using some automatic fly-by-throttle bade up control system for crippled airplane seriously considered. Several different schemes to help pilots fly hydraulically depleted aircraft by using collective and differential thrust of the engines will be reviewed. Special attention will be devoted to the so-called “model matching” methodology. Finally, it will be shown how this research can be extrapolated to the X-33, the reduced scale demonstration vehicle of the new space shuttle.
Counterion diffusivity measurements support ion atmosphere relaxation control of electron transfer rates in a semi-solid ruthenium complex molten salt

Abstract Molten salts of ruthenium complexes [Ru(bpy(CO 2 MePEG 350 ) 2 ) 3 ] [X] 2 have been prepared in which the counterion X is either perchlorate ion or mixtures of perchlorate and iodide ions in mole ratios of either 8:2 or 7:3. Cyclic voltammetry in dilute, fluid solutions and in undiluted, semi-solid films of the iodide-containing molten salt shows two well-resolved iodide oxidation peaks and an anodic Ru(II/III) wave. The average diffusion coefficients of the counterions were obtained by ionic conductivity impedance measurements, while that of iodide (as a surrogate for perchlorate ion transport) was measured directly using iodide voltammetry. Agreement between the conductivity-based and Faradaic counterion transport data provides a quantitative validation of previous use of ionic conductivity data in study of the ion atmosphere relaxation model for electron transfer rate control in semi-solid redox hybrid polyether melts. A second purpose of this report is examination of the ion atmosphere relaxation model with the Ru complex melts. In this model, electron transfer rate constants are controlled by post-electron transfer relaxation of counterion distribution around the donor–acceptor pair – else back-transfer occurs. The electron transfer rate constants as a result reflect counterion diffusion rates, not their intrinsic values. The Ru(III/II) electron transfer rate constants in the [Ru(bpy(CO 2 MePEG 350 ) 2 ) 3 ][X] 2 melts indeed vary linearly with counterion diffusion coefficients in a manner consistent with ion atmosphere relaxation electron transfer rate control.
Gas and Star Formation in Dwarf Galaxies

Resolved observations of nearby galaxies help us to understand the relationship between gas and star formation in dwarf galaxies. The star formation histories recovered from their fossil records place constraints on how much gas dwarf galaxies could have acquired at early times. Are dwarf galaxies able to accrete a significant amount of gas at later times, or is the bulk of the gas in place once the dwarf galaxy establishes its gravitational identity? In the current epoch, we have a wealth of observations which allow us to study the process of star formation. Spatially resolved, recent star formation histories allow us to ask fundamental questions such as: What conditions are required for star formation? What is the impact of the star formation on the structure of the ISM? Does star formation heat the ISM and consequently suppress future star formation, or does it compress the ISM and lead to more star formation? Does understanding star formation at z = 0 help us to understand star formation at higher redshifts?
New genetic tools for cell lineage analysis in Drosophila

Real-time lineage tracing in flies gets a boost with three techniques to specifically label a progenitor's daughter cells.
Inhibitory action of nisin against Listeria monocytogenes

The sensitivity of nine strains of Listeria to nisin was determined as well as the minimum inhibitory concentration of nisin necessary to completely inhibit growth of these strains. All strains tested were variably sensitive to nisin and different MIC values were obtained, ranging from 740 to 10(5) IU/ml in trypticase soy agar and from 1.85 to 10(3) IU/ml in MRS agar. The inhibition of L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644 in TSB trypticase at different pH values and in sterilized and nonsterilized cottage cheese by nisin (37 X 10(2) IU/ml and 2.55 X 10(3) IU/g, respectively) also was investigated. This bacterium was completely inhibited after 24 h at pH 5.0 and above. At pH 4.5, 4.0, and 3.5, it was inhibited within 24 h. In cottage cheese no Listeria survivors were found at 24 h at 37 and 4 degrees C whether or not the cheese had been sterilized when as many as .35 X 10(6) cell/g were added at zero time.
Influence of a strong proton-neutron interaction on mass 100 nuclei and properties of the octupole two-phonon multiplet in96Zr

Experimental evidence, which suggests a strong proton-neutron interaction giving rise to deformation and influencing the deformation properties of mass 100 nuclei, is reviewed, as is the large variation in the interaction strength for N=59 isotones and for coexisting states of 46≤Z≤54 isotones. Properties of the recently discovered octupole two-phonon multiplet in96Zr are presented, compared to spdf-boson IBM calculations, and consequences of its fragmentation are discussed.
Cytomembranous inclusions in myelodysplastic syndrome.

A 56-year-old African-American man presented with fever of unknown origin and peripheral blood and bone marrow findings of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS): refractory anemia with an excess of blasts in transformation that subsequently progressed to acute myeloblastic leukemia (AMD. Ultrastructural study of two bone marrow specimens having the findings of MDS revealed frequent, large tubuloreticular structures (TRS) in lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, and endothelial cells. Several cylindrical confronting cisternae (CCC) were present in macrophages and an endothelial cell. Two partially developed CCC were present in a plasma cell. TRS and CCC were not observed in eight subsequent bone marrow specimens obtained during the 9-month course of the AML. This is the first reported occurrence of TRS and CCC in MDS. These inclusions are probably related to an unidentified viral infection or possibly to cytokines released by the dysplastic hematopoietic cells.
Service Oriented Architectures, the DoD Architecture Framework 1.5, and Executable Architectures

The Department of Defense (DoD) has defined a Net Centric Warfare concept to help lead the way in the transformation of DoD capabilities in the information age. Service Oriented Architectures (SOA) has been selected as an approach for achieving many of the goals of this transformation. The DoD has created a major revision in its DoD Architecture Framework (DoDAF) that enables the inclusion of SOA. This paper describes a process for creating a DoDAF 1.5 compliant architecture that includes the description of the SOA aspects, a mapping and a process for converting that architecture to an executable model, and the use of that executable model in the evaluation of logical, behavioral, and performance aspects of the architecture. The concepts are illustrated with a detailed Case Study. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
Adsorption of end-functionalized poly(ethylene oxide)s to the poly(ethylene oxide)-air interface

Samples with one or both ends of monodisperse poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) functionalized with perfluorodecanoyl groups (PEOF or PEO2F) were synthesized and blends of these end-capped PEOs with PEOs of the same molecular weight (Mn ∼2000 to ∼16 000 K) were prepared as cast films. As-cast and annealed samples were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle analysis. XPS analysis was also performed on samples at elevated temperatures (melts). Due to the lower surface energy of the fluorocarbon end groups, the modified PEOs preferentially adsorb to the free polymer surface. The surface concentration of the perfluoroalkyl end groups was measured by XPS which indicates that perfluoroalkyl chain ends adsorb to the polymer surface in a reasonably close-packed fashion (at all molecular weights) and leave a zone depleted of fluorine immediately beneath the highly fluorinated surface region. The dependence of adsorption on temperature was investigated for one sample and adsorption appears to...
A Numerical Model to Simulate the Processing of Electrical Distribution Cables - Part I (Heat and Mass Transfer)

A numerical model is developed to simulate the curing and quenching of electrical distribution cables. The model considers a moving cable with possible three dimensional variations in properties and boundary conditions. Both heat and mass transport ort are included. A finite difference appmationoxiation is used to solve the governing equations. The key to the numerical solution is a Landau type transformation, applied to eliminate the moving axial boundary. Potential applications of the program are illustrated by examining a laboratory scale and full-sized facility; for example, surface film coefficients may be determined by combining experimental results and numerical predictions. It is demonstrated that the rate controlling resistance to heat transfer is shifted as the relative thickness of the insulation is changed.
The Worried Patient: Clinical Management of the Patient with Hypochondriasis

The author discusses the importance of accurately identifying patients with hypochondriasis, especially in the current cost-conscious healthcare environment. Such patients frequently overuse clinical and laboratory services, especially when not correctly diagnosed. The author discusses three differe
Packaging Reality Structures of Form in US Network News Coverage of Watergate and the Clinton Impeachment

This study takes its lead from Schudson’s (1995) insightful suggestion that the power of news lies less in the stories it tells than in the form those stories assume. The form of news directs the j...
Resolving the functions of overlapping viral genes by site-specific mutagenesis at a mRNA splice site.

Early region IA of human adenoviruses encodes a function required for normal induction of early viral genes and virus-induced cell transformation. The region is expressed at early times as two overlapping spliced mRNAs, 12S and 13S, which encode closely related proteins. To distinguish between the functions of these proteins, a single T → G transversion was constructed which prevents splicing of the 12S mRNA. This transversion, in the second base of the 12S mRNA intron, does not alter the protein encoded by the 13S mRNA due to degeneracy in the genetic code. Studies with this mutant demonstrated that only the 13S mRNA encodes the regulatory protein required for normal early gene expression.
Improved separation and detection of picolinic acid and quinolinic acid by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry: Application to analysis of human cerebrospinal fluid

“Quinolinic acid (QA)”, a metabolite of the kynurenine pathway (KP), is implicated as a major neurological biomarker, which causes inflammatory disorders, whereas there is an increase evidence of the role of picolinic acid (PA) in neuroinflammation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new clinical test for early diagnosis of neuroinflammatory disorders. A comparison is made between three different platforms such as high performance liquid chromatography–electrospray mass spectrometry (HPLC–ESI-MS/MS), nano LC–Chip/ESI-MS/MS, as well as the use of cationic (quaternary ammonium) and anionic (sulfonated) coated capillaries in capillary electrophoresis (CE)-ESI-MS/MS. The comparison revealed that CE-ESI-MS/MS method using a quaternary ammonium coated capillary is the best method for analysis of PA and QA. A simple stacking procedure by the inclusion of acetonitrile in the artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample was employed to improve the peak shape and sensitivity of KP metabolites in CE-ESI-MS/MS. The developed CE-ESI-MS/MS assay provided high resolution, high specificity and high sensitivity with a total analysis time including sample preparation of nearly 12 min. In addition, excellent intra-day and inter-day repeatability of migration times and peak areas of the metabolites were observed with respective relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 2.0% and 2.5%. Somewhat broader variations in repeatability for a 3 independently prepared coated capillary (total 35 runs each) with % RSD up to 3.8% and 5.8% was observed for migration time and peak areas, respectively. Artificial CSF was used as a surrogate matrix to simultaneously generate calibration curves over a concentration range of 0.02–10 μM for PA and 0.4–40 μM for QA. The method was then successfully applied to analyze PA and QA in human CSF, demonstrating the potential of this CE-ESI-MS/MS method to accurately quantitate with high specificity and sensitivity.
Endocarditis Due to Nutritionally Deficient Streptococci: Therapeutic Dilemma

Three cases of endocarditis due to nutritionally deficient (variant) streptococci are presented and the literature is reviewed. In all of the cases reviewed, the patient presented with an indolent subacute course. Prior heart disease was present in 90% of the patients, embolization occurred in 27%, relapse after therapy in 17%, and death in 17%. Bacteriologic failure occurred in 41% of cases, despite sensitivity of the organisms to the antibiotics used in two-thirds of these cases. Combination therapy with penicillin and an aminoglycoside has been recommended previously; however, in 38% of the cases reviewed, bacteriologic failures occurred and the patients required surgery. The results of in vitro antibiotic-sensitivity testing are difficult to interpret and to apply to the expected response to therapy. Further studies on these organisms are needed to reduce the high rates of failure, relapse, and fatality.
Carrier-mediated transport of spd-ribose by Rhodotorula glutinis

Abstract The kinetics of spd-ribose transport by Rhodotorula glutinis were investigated over a 1 000-fold range of sugar concentrations. Analysis of the saturation isotherm revealed the presence of two carrier systems for spd-ribose in the Rhodotorula plasma membrane. These two carriers exhibited K m values of 1.3 and 30 mM. At saturating concentrations of spd-ribose, the low K m carrier contributes less than 10% to the total rate of transport. Although spd-ribose is metabolized rapidly by Rhodotorula, intracellular free sugar concentrations exceed those in the medium. In addition, the transport of this pentose is inhibited by the proton-conductors, 2,4-dinitrophenol and carbonylcyanide m- chlorophenylhydrazone . These data suggest that Rhodotorula cells are capable of an energy-dependent, concentrative transport of spd-ribose.
Reliability and comparability of a Spanish-language form of the preschool and kindergarten behavior scales

Comparability of a Spanish language translation of the Preschool and Kindergarten Behavior Scales was examined in relation to the English language version. Children ages 3–6 enrolled in preschool, kindergarten, or Head Start programs were rated concurrently by respondents on English and Spanish versions of the PKBS. Results showed virtually identical internal consistency of scores on both forms on Social Skills (.93) and Problem Behavior (.96) Scales. Correlations between forms for Social Skills and Problem Behavior scores were .93 and .94, respectively. Implications of these findings, directions for future research and the importance of continued work toward development/translation of other Spanish language assessment instruments for the early childhood population are discussed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No Fossil Disk in the T Tauri Multiple System V773 Tauri

We present new multiepoch near-infrared (NIR) and optical high angular resolution images of the V773 Tau pre-main-sequence triple system, a weak-line T Tauri star (WTTS) system in which the presence of an evolved, "fossil" protoplanetary disk has been inferred on the basis of a significant IR excess. Our images reveal a fourth object bound to the system, V773 Tau D. While it is much fainter than all other components at 2 μm, it is the brightest source in the system at 4.7 μm. We also present medium-resolution K-band adaptive optics spectroscopy of this object, which is featureless with the exception of a weak Brγ emission line. Based on this spectrum and on the spectral energy distribution (SED) of the system, we show that V773 Tau D is another member of the small class of "infrared companions" (IRCs) to T Tauri stars (TTSs). It is the least luminous, and probably the least massive, component of the system, as opposed to most other IRCs, which suggests that numerous low-luminosity IRCs such as V773 Tau D may still remain to be discovered. Furthermore, it is the source of the strong IR excess in the system. We therefore reject the interpretation of this excess as the signature of a fossil (or "passive") disk and further suggest that these systems may be much less frequent than previously thought. We further show that V773 Tau C is a variable classical TTS (CTTS) and that its motion provides a well-constrained orbital model. We show that V773 Tau D can be dynamically stable within this quadruple system if its orbit is highly inclined. Finally, V773 Tau is the first multiple system to display such a variety of evolutionary states (WTTS, CTTS, IRC), which may be the consequence of the strong star-star interactions in this compact quadruple system.
Graphite Oxide as an Olefin Polymerization Carbocatalyst: Applications in Electrochemical Double Layer Capacitors

Graphite oxide (GO) is shown to be an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the polymerization of various olefin monomers, including n-butyl vinyl ether, N-vinylcarbazole, styrene, and sodium 4-styrenesulfonate. The GO-catalyzed polymerization of n-butyl vinyl ether (0.1–5.0 wt% GO relative to monomer) proceeds rapidly under solvent-free conditions and affords polymers with moderate number average molecular weights and broad polydispersities. Analysis of the carbon recovered at the conclusion of the polymerization reactions reveals that the material's catalytic activity is retained and multiple polymerization cycles can be performed without regenerating the catalyst. GO also catalyzes the polymerization of N-vinylcarbazole and styrene, although only low molecular weight polymers are obtained. Sodium 4-styrenesulfonate polymerizes in the presence of GO to afford poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) composites. After thermal treatment, the composites can be fabricated into electrodes for use in electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs). The devices display high specific capacitances (25–120 F g−1) and low equivalent series resistances (14–27 Ω).
Wireless infrastructure for remote environmental monitoring: Deployment and evaluation

The world is witnessing tremendous innovation in wireless sensing technology, which creates opportunities to benefit environmental monitoring in significant ways. However, there are several challenges that are not thoroughly discussed by current studies in designing the wireless network infrastructure for these applications. In general, the monitoring units should provide reliable data communication across diverse environments. The wireless system should also meet requirements that most current platforms fail to satisfy, such as scalable coverage, reliability, robustness, and low operating cost. Finally, the network architecture should be kept simple to aid in the management of infrastructure deployments across disparate environments. With the aim of addressing these challenges, a two-tier network architecture for remote environmental monitoring is described in this study: (i) A sensor gateway is designed to transmit observation data from local sensors at the first tier. (ii) The second tier of the infrastructure reliably replays this data to a remote server for analysis via a wireless mesh network. A wide range of environments are supported, from open fields and dense forests, to Wi-Fi areas and cellular-only zones. In this study, a wireless backhaul network comprising wireless sensor gateways was deployed in Aiken, South Carolina. The network performance was systematically evaluated through experimental trials. Results demonstrate the infrastructures ability to support effective data collection and reliable data transmission.
Neuronal and adrenal enkephalins and catecholamines in response to acute CNS ischemia and reserpine in pig.

Abstract Co-storage of enkephalins and catecholamines in coronary artery, mesenteric artery and vein, middle cerebral artery, vas deferens and adrenal medulla was studied in domestic pig (Sus scrofa). Responses to acute CNS ischemia were correlated with time to peak plasma levels of central venous and adrenal vein outflow samples in controls, during reserpine treatment and after drug withdrawal. Endogenous enkephalins are co-stored in chromaffin granules of adrenal epinephrine-type cells and large dense cored vesicles of noradrenergic terminals. After a lag period, reserpine at near ‘therapeutic’ doses caused an apparent induction of opioid peptide precursor synthesis accompanied by processing to enkephalins in adrenal medulla up to 8-fold by 30 days and in mesenteric vein up to 4.5-fold by 14 days. Upon 14 days recovery from reserpine, elevated adrenal enkephalins were maintained and depleted catecholamines were largely replenished. Acute CNS ischemia produced rises in MAP (approx. 80 mmHg), marked net depletions of noradrenergic enkephalin stores, and net increases in adrenal vein outflow and central venous levels of enkephalins and catecholamines. Noradrenergic terminals contributed significantly to circulating enkephalins as well as norepinephrine. Reserpine for 7 days nearly abolished all tested responses to acute CNS ischemia, but immediate net 200–;400% elevations of endogenous enkephalin stores occurred in coronary artery and mesenteric artery and vein (apparent processing of reserpine-induced neuronal precursor stores). Thus, induction of new synthesis of precursor opioid peptides by reserpine, with or without parallel processing to enkephalins, occurs in noradrenergic terminals in many tissues. All effects of reserpine on endogenous enkephalins implicate a central mechanism to inhibit sympathoadrenal outflow to the periphery. At 14 days recovery from reserpine, when near normal cardiovascular responses to acute CNS ischemia were regained, there was increased net release of the elevated adrenal enkephalins, exaggerated peak plasma enkephalin concentrations, but only minimal depletions of enkephalins from noradrenergic terminals.
Endocrine Control of Hydromineral Balance in Teleosts

synopsis. Hydromineral balance in teleosts is reviewed in an effort to define common elements, as well as inter- and intra-species variation in its endocrine control. Processes at the gill, gut, kidney, and urinary bladder are compared. The difficulty in deriving functional generalities is discussed; the stimulation of both sodium influx and efflux by cortisol, the ingestion of equal amounts of water by some fishes in either fresh or sea water, and the equal glomerular filtration rates in both hypotonic and hypertonic environments for other fish confound such efforts at generalization. An attempt is made to explain these inconsistencies through an examination of variation in hor? monal balances and effector organ responses. Evidence for Na+/K+-ATPase involvement at the gill, gut, kidney, and urinary bladder is summarized. Patterns in cortisol and prolactin availability as a function of synthesis, storage, and secretion are con? sidered. A rather consistent antagonism of cortisol and prolactin in sodium move? ment and water permeability at several teleost effector organs is substantiated.
Effect of AMP and related compounds on glycogen content of Tetrahymena.

Addition of AMP to cultures of Tetrahymena pyriformis caused an increase in glycogen content of the cells and a small inhibition of growth. Adenine, adenosine, ADP, and ATP also increased glycogen content. Inosine and GMP were less effective; cytidine and uridine were ineffective. The increase in glycogen content was also observed in cultures supplemented with ribose, fructose, or glycerol, and when glyconeogenesis was increased by partial anaerobiosis. Adenine itself did not serve as a glycogen precursor, nor could the lipids of the cell have been the source of the carbon for the increased glycogen. The specific activity of glycogen from cultures supplemented with labelled amino acids was lower in AMP-treated cells than in controls. AMP-treatment had little effect on 14CO2 production from labelled glucose, acetate, or pyruvate, but baused a marked inhibition of the oxidation of labelled glyoxylate. It was suggested that AMP increases the rate of glyconeogenesis from precursors other than amino acids and interferes with malate synthase activity or malate transfer from peroxisomes to mitochondria.
Photopolymerization of vinyl monomers initiated by diacidobis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) complexes

Abstract The photosensitivity of diacidobis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) complexes has been used to study the photoinitiation of vinyl polymerization in aqueous acid solutions. The cobalt(III) complexes, namely cis -Co(en) 2 Cl 2 + , trans -Co(en) 2 Cl 2 + , cis -Co(en) 2 (NO 2 ) 2 + , trans -Co(en) 2 (NO 2 ) 2 + , cis -Co(en) 2 (H 2 O)(Cl) 2+ , (Co(en) 2 C 2 O 4 ) + , and (Co(en) 3 ) 3+ , were used to photoinitiate the polymerization of acrylamide and acrylonitrile. The irradiation of deaerated aqueous acidic solutions of all the above cobalt(III) complexes with the vinyl monomers at λ = 365 nm led to polymerization. Of the various complexes studied the most effective were cis - and trans -(Co(en) 2 (NO 2 ) 2 ) + and cis -(Co(en) 2 (H 2 O)Cl) 2+ . The photoinitiating ability of the cobalt(III) complexes was related to their photoredox behavior. Detailed kinetic study of polymerization was made with cis - and trans -(Co(en) 2 (NO 2 ) 2 ) + and cis -(Co(en) 2 (H 2 O)Cl) 2+ as photoinitiators. The experimental results were accounted for in terms of an interaction of the excited cobalt(III) complex with a monomer molecule to yield photoredox products capable of free radical initiation of polymerization.
Black-body radiation as an inertial confinement fusion driver

To ignite a thermonuclear microexplosion a power source of ≳ 1014W is required with an energy of ≳106J focused down to ≲0.1 cm. To meet these driver requirements, charged particle beams1 and even hypervelocity projectiles2 have been proposed as an alternative to lasers for which an energy ≳106J is considered very large. Although charged particle beams and hypervelocity projectiles promise much larger energies the problem of the large driver power of ≳1014W remains. We propose here a two-stage driver concept which eliminates this problem. In it the initial energy is drawn from any of these drivers but is used here to generate an intense black-body radiation source. This black-body radiation is then used to drive the thermonuclear microexplosion target. This concept not only permits the initial driver power to be reduced by about two orders of magnitude from ≳1014W down to a few 1012W, but also greatly relaxes the beam-focusing requirements as compared with direct pellet fusion.
Quantum-mechanical rearrangement processes: Off-shell vibrorotational sudden approximation to the dynamics

Abstract A vibrorotational sudden approximation for atom—diatom reactive scattering is developed, based on a T -matrix formulation of the process. The theory characteristically involves off-shell T -matrices that have been recently applied with remarkable success to the simpler atom—diatom subreactive regime. From the computational point of view, the scattering calculations must be performed in two successive steps. In the first, the scattering wavefunction, in the vibrorotational sudden approximation, must be evaluated and, for this purpose, standard computer packages of the inelastic regime can be immediately applied. This wavefunction must be used, next, to evaluate the off-shell T -matrix of the theory, by numerical quadrature. For this purpose, an efficient computational scheme is developed, that combines kinematical constraints and partial wave analysis requirements. The simplicity of the formalism and the off-shell constraint on the T -matrix suggest that the theory could be usefully applied for a rationalization of a large body of data in chemical reactions.
Evaluation of the safety and short-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of uterine fibroids with MR-guided focused ultrasound

Purpose This study was performed to evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids using magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound therapy (MRgFUS). Materials and Methods The study was approved by our IRB and data was collected prospectively on a nonrandomized basis. Baseline, 1 week, and 1 month clinical history and physical exam were performed, and pre- and post-procedural MRI’s were reviewed. Symptom Severity Scores (SSS) and Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-Related Quality of Life Surveys (UFS-QOL) were obtained at baseline and 6 months. Inclusion criteria were pre-menopausal women over 18 years of age who were family complete with enhancing, device-accessible, symptomatic fibroids. Patients were excluded for excessive uterine fibroid size, pedunculation or significant calcification/heterogeneity of fibroids, overlying abdominal wall scar, or location inaccessible to the device. Treatment of 1-3 fibroids over 1-2 sessions was performed on the Insightec (Dallas, TX) ExAblate MRgFUS system per manufacturer instructions. Results 18 women (mean age 43; range 27-52) completed MRgFUS with 14/18 (77.8%) receiving 2 MRgFUS sessions. Mean baseline SSS and UFS-QOL scores were 29.3 (max = 40) and 123.6 (max = 175), respectively. The mean fibroid volume pretreatment was 244 ml (range 28-554 ml). The mean and range of %-nonperfused volume of fibroids post-MRgFUS was 57.8% and 12.4-98%, respectively. At both 1 week and 1 month, 14/18 (77.8%) patients demonstrated clinical improvement. Mean SSS and UFS-QOL scores at six months were 17.3 and 75.9, with 15/17 (88.2%) patients demonstrating improvement in both of these scores at 6 months with 1 patient lost to follow up, and the two unimproved patients pursuing further treatment (1 UAE and 1 hysterectomy). There were no major complications. Minor complications occurred in 2/18 (11.1%) patients, including irritable bowel syndrome flare, UTI, and superficial skin burn at a scar site. Conclusion Treatment of uterine fibroids using MRgFUS is safe and effective in the short-term, with no major complications observed. However, this study is limited by the small sample size.
Ab initio calculation of a graphene-ribbon-based molecular switch

We perform ab initio calculations of electronic and transport properties of nanoelectronic systems. The surface Green's function of semi-infinite ribbons made from graphene sheets is constructed fr...
A Planar Compliance-Based Self-Adaptive MicrofluidVariable Resistor

This paper presents a self-adaptive microfluidic variable resistor that accomplishes passive control of liquid flows by exploiting the large compliance of elastomeric polymers such as polydimethylsiloxane. The device features a compliant microstructure embedded in a microchannel that consists of a flexible thin flap and a stiff stopper located in close proximity. The shape and size of the gap between the flap and stopper vary with the applied pressure, resulting in small resistance with respect to forward flow and large resistance with respect to reverse flow. The variable flow resistor shows an interesting diode behavior because its flow resistance is drastically different for different directions of applied pressures and is self-adaptive in the sense that its flow resistance varies with reverse pressure in such a way that the resulting flow rate remains a constant. That is, the flow resistor can be used as a check valve and, more importantly, a passive flow regulator. Prototype devices have demonstrated regulation of nearly constant water flow rates from 0.21 to 1.2 ml/min, with variations less than 3%, under driving pressures that vary significantly from 100 to over 200 kPa. Three-dimensional fluid-structure interaction simulations have been performed to investigate the interactions between the fluid flow and flap deflection. The simulation results agree with the experimental data and provide insight into the device characteristics. Based on its single-layer planar configuration, passive operation over a large pressure range, and use of a flexible and inexpensive polymer, this self-adaptive variable flow resistor is well suited to flow control in lab-on-a-chip systems
Novel Mechanism of RNA Repair by RtcB via Sequential 2′,3′-Cyclic Phosphodiesterase and 3′-Phosphate/5′-Hydroxyl Ligation Reactions

RtcB enzymes are a newly discovered family of RNA ligases, implicated in tRNA splicing and other RNA repair reactions, that seal broken RNAs with 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate and 5′-OH ends. Parsimony and energetics would suggest a one-step mechanism for RtcB sealing via attack by the O5′ nucleophile on the cyclic phosphate, with expulsion of the ribose O2′ and generation of a 3′,5′-phosphodiester at the splice junction. Yet we find that RtcB violates Occam's razor, insofar as (i) it is adept at ligating 3′-monophosphate and 5′-OH ends; (ii) it has an intrinsic 2′,3′-cyclic phosphodiesterase activity. The 2′,3′-cyclic phosphodiesterase and ligase reactions both require manganese and are abolished by mutation of the RtcB active site. Thus, RtcB executes a unique two-step pathway of strand joining whereby the 2′,3′-cyclic phosphodiester end is hydrolyzed to a 3′-monophosphate, which is then linked to the 5′-OH end to form the splice junction. The energy for the 3′-phosphate ligase activity is provided by GTP, which reacts with RtcB in the presence of manganese to form a covalent RtcB-guanylate adduct. This adduct is sensitive to acid and hydroxylamine but resistant to alkali, consistent with a phosphoramidate bond.
Tumor promoting phorbol diesters stimulate release of radioactivity from [3H]-arachidonic acid labeled- but not [14C]linoleic acid labeled-cells. Indomethacin inhibits the stimulated release from [3H] arachidonate labeled cells.

Abstract The tumor promoting phorbol diester, 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate, stimulates MDCK cells to deacylate cellular phospholipids and to produce prostaglandins when measured as the release of arachidonic acid and its metabolites nto the culture fluid. Indomethacin, at levels of 2.8 × 10 −8 to 2.8 × 10 −6 M, inhibits the release of radioactivity from [ 3 H]arachidonate labeled cells stimulated by 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate treatment in a concentration dependent manner. At these concentrations, the conversion of released [3H]arachidonic acid into prostaglandins E 2 and F 2α and the production of PGE 2 measured serologically also is suppressed in a concentration dependent manner.Indomethacin, at these levels, has no effect on the acylation of [ 3 H]arachidonic acid into cellular lipids. The tumor promoting phorbol diester does not stimulate the release of radioactive materials from MDCK cells labeled with [ 14 C]linoleic acid, although prostaglandin production by these cells is stimulated.
Beam-beam effects in the Tevatron

The Tevatron in Collider Run II (2001-present) is operating with 6 times more bunches, many times higher beam intensities and luminosities than in Run I (1992-1995). Electromagnetic long-range and head-on interactions of high intensity proton and antiproton beams have been significant sources of beam loss and lifetime limitations. We present observations of the beam-beam phenomena in the Tevatron and results of relevant beam studies. We analyze the data and various methods employed in operations, predict the performance for planned luminosity upgrades, and discuss ways to improve it.
Patagonian Glacier Response During the Late Glacial–Holocene Transition

Whether cooling occurred in the Southern Hemisphere during the Younger Dryas (YD) is key to understanding mechanisms of millennial climate change. Although Southern Hemisphere records do not reveal a distinct climate reversal during the late glacial period, many mountain glaciers readvanced. We show that the Puerto Bandera moraine (50°S), which records a readvance of the Southern Patagonian Icefield (SPI), formed at, or shortly after, the end of the YD. The exposure age (10.8 ± 0.5 thousand years ago) is contemporaneous with the highest shoreline of Lago Cardiel (49°S), which records peak precipitation east of the Andes since 13 thousand years ago. Absent similar moraines west of the Andes, these data indicate an SPI response to increased amounts of easterly-sourced precipitation—reflecting changes in the Southern Westerly circulation—rather than regional cooling.
Transmembrane potentials of canine AV junctional tissues.

Abstract The atrioventricular (AV) junction comprises the AV node, His bundle (HB), and specialized tissues proximal to the node called paranodal fibers (PNF). In the present study, an in vitro, dissection-exposed canine right atrial (RA), transitional fiber (TF), AV junctional preparation was used. The TF and PNF formed a pathway running along the base of the septa[ cusp of the tricuspid valve (SCTV). In the first experiment, impulses elicited at the RA were monitored to propagate sequentially through the TF, PNF, AV node, and then the HB. This functional evidence supports the concept that a conduction pathway connecting the RA and the AV node exists along the base of the SCTV. This internodal pathway is referred to as the septal cusp pathway. In another experiment, transmembrane potentials and V max were determined on each of the AV junctional tissues. Results showed that PNF had the lowest V max (2.5 V/sec), followed by AV node (7.0 V/sec) and HB (33 V/sec). This finding showed that PNF, and not the AV node, has the lowest V max suggesting that the PNF has the lowest conductivity among the AV junctional tissues, and this study advances our understanding on the mechanism of AV conduction delay in dog hearts.
Lipids of cultured hepatoma cells: V. Distribution of isomeric monoene fatty acids in individual lipid classes

Monoenoic acid fractions were isolated from phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines, triglycerides, and cholesterol esters derived from minimal deviation hepatoma 7288C cells cultured on 11 media containing varying levels of serums and lipids. Hexadecenoate (16∶1), octadecenoate (18∶1), and eicosenoate (20∶1) fractions were subjected to ozonolysis and the isomeric composition of the monoene fractions determined quantitatively by gas liquid chromatography. The 16∶1 fractions consisted of palmitoleic acid, the Δ9 isomer (85–90%), and the Δ11 isomer (10–15%) in most of the cases; growth media and lipid class origin had little effect upon composition. The predominate acids of the 20∶1 fraction were the Δ13 and Δ11 isomers. Generally, the Δ13 isomer was present in the highest concentration, and this isomer was higher in phosphatidylcholines than the other classes. Vaccenic acid represented 33–66% of the 18∶1 fraction, and the balance was oleic acid. Oleic acid concentrations decreased, and vaccenic acid levels increased as the growth medium serum and lipid levels decreased. Lipid classes did not exhibit any distinct preference for either isomer. These data represent the first quantitative isomeric analysis of monoenoic acids derived from individual lipid classes and are the first to show the occurrence of high levels of vaccenic acid in neoplastic cells. This study suggests that the elevated levels of oleic acid, one of the most frequently observed changes in tumor lipids, may, in fact, represent elevated levels of vaccenic acid.
Food-specific IgG Antibody–guided Elimination Diets Followed by Resolution of Asthma Symptoms and Reduction in Pharmacological Interventions in Two Patients: A Case Report

Asthma is one of the most common causes of office visits in the primary care and emergency care settings. Individuals are often able to maintain symptomatic control with long-term pharmacological therapy. Exacerbations of asthma commonly occur due to exposure to triggers such as viruses, pollutants, and allergens. While it is widely accepted that exposure to immunoglobulin E food allergens can exacerbate asthma symptoms, there is little evidence examining delayed immunoglobulin G-mediated reactions to food. Here we present two clinical cases of individuals who experienced a reduction in asthma symptoms, decreased dependence on pharmacological therapies, and increased quality of life by eliminating foods that demonstrated reactivity to immunoglobulin G levels identified through serum testing.
Effects of spatial detail of soil information on watershed modeling

The impacts of detailed and spatially continuous soil information on hydro-ecological modeling over watersheds of mesoscale size are investigated. The impacts were assessed by comparing the simulated hydro-ecological responses based on the detailed soil spatial information derived from a fuzzy logic-based inference approach with those based on the soil information derived from a conventional soil map. This study reveals that the detailed soil spatial information has impacts on the simulated hydro-ecological responses under a lumped parameter approach. Peak runoff was reduced, yielding more realistic hydrographs for forested watersheds in the area. The detailed soil spatial information strongly impacted the simulation of net photosynthesis over the period when there is a moisture stress, but negligible impacts when there is sufficient water recharge to soil profiles. Simulation of hydro-ecological responses using a distributed parameter approach is less impacted by the detailed soil spatial information. The difference in simulated net photosynthesis under the distributed approach is smaller and also only occurred during the period of moisture stress. The impacts on spatial distribution of simulated transpiration occurred mainly over south facing slopes during the period of moisture stress.