cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Amino-terminal fragment of the prohormone brain-type natriuretic peptide in rheumatoid arthritis.

Objective Increased concentrations of N-terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but little is known about their relationship to chronic inflammation. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have chronic inflammation, increased arterial stiffness, and accelerated coronary atherosclerosis. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that NT-proBNP concentrations are elevated in patients with RA and are associated with coronary artery calcification and markers of inflammation. Methods In 159 patients with RA (90 with early RA and 69 with longstanding RA) without heart failure and 88 control subjects, serum concentrations of NT-proBNP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were measured and coronary calcification was assessed. Associations between NT-proBNP levels and the other parameters were investigated. Results NT-proBNP concentrations were elevated in patients with longstanding RA (median 142.8 pg/ml [interquartile range 54.8–270.5]) and those with early RA (median 58.1 pg/ml [interquartile range 19.4–157.6]) compared with controls (18.1 [3.2–46.0]) (P < 0.001). In patients with RA, NT-proBNP concentrations were associated with age (ρ = 0.35, P < 0.001), levels of IL-6 (ρ = 0.33, P < 0.001), TNFα (ρ = 0.23, P = 0.003), and C-reactive protein (CRP) (ρ = 0.21, P = 0.01), coronary calcium score (ρ = 0.30, P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (ρ = 0.30, P < 0.001), and disease activity (ρ = 0.29, P < 0.001). After adjustment for age, race, and sex, the associations between NT-proBNP concentrations and disease activity, TNFα, IL-6, and CRP remained significant, but those with systolic blood pressure and coronary calcium score were attenuated. Conclusion NT-proBNP concentrations are increased in patients with RA without clinical heart failure and may indicate subclinical cardiovascular disease and a chronic inflammatory state.
Metabolic intermediates, enzymes and lysosomal activity in aortas of spontaneously hypertensive rats

Abstract Metabolic intermediate levels, glycolytic and Krebs cycle enzyme activities and lysosomal acid hydrolase activities were measured in aortas of spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) versus normotensive (WKY) rats. In the hypertensive aortas the level of lactate, the ratio of lactate to glucose and of lactate to malate was higher in the SHR than WKY aortas. In the hypertensive aortas the obvious shift of metabolism toward higher rate of glycolysis was associated with decreased activity of malate dehydrogenase and especially of lipoamide dehydrogenase. The latter is an essential component of the α-ketoglutarate and pyruvate dehydrogenase enzyme complexes and it appears that these complexes are among the sites of arterial metabolism which are primarily altered by the elevated blood pressure, resulting in increased production of lactate. The activity of the marker lysosomal enzyme N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase was unequivocally elevated in the hypertensive aortas. The activity of β-glucuronidase exhibited incongruous differences between the SHR and WKY aortas and the activity of aortic acid phosphatase did not differ in the two rat strains. The results are discussed in relation to arterial injury, permeability, and atherogenesis.
Microbial Oxidation of Hydrogen Sulfide in a Pilot-Scale Bubble Column

Thiobacillus denitrificans is a chemoautotroph and a facultatively anaerobic bacterium that can use reduced sulfur compounds as energy sources with oxidation to sulfate. Under anoxic conditions, nitrate may serve as a terminal electron acceptor with reduction to elemental nitrogen. T. denitrificans has previously been shown to remove hydrogen sulfide from sour gases under both aerobic and anoxic conditions. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were reduced from 10,000 ppmv to undetectable levels with 1-2 s of gas-liquid contact time in bench-scale fermentors. The oxidation product, sulfate, accumulated in the liquid phase of the culture medium. Flocculated T. denitrificans has now been used to remove hydrogen sulfide (up to 1500 ppmv) from a sour gas in a 0.5-m{sup 3} pilot-scale bubble column. The bubble column was operated for 7 weeks under aerobic conditions, with gas feeds of air and hydrogen sulfide in nitrogen. Up to 97% removal of hydrogen sulfide was observed with complete oxidation to sulfate, which accumulated in the reactor medium. Limitations in H{sub 2}S removal were due to mass transfer and not the microbiology of the system. More complete H{sub 2}S removal can be accomplished by increasing gas-liquid contact in a single reactor or using two bubble columns in series. 10more » refs., 5 figs.« less
RNA metabolism in isolated nuclei: processing and transport of immunoglobulin light chain sequences

Transport of prelabeled RNA from isolated myeloma nuclei is studied using conditions that permit RNA synthesis. Cytosol and spermidine are not required to maintain nuclear stability and inhibited RNA release. Omission of ATP or GTP decreased release 25 to 40%. The stimulatory effect of ATP or GTP is not due to hydrolysis of the triphosphates by the nuclear envelope NTPase, since addition of quercetin (an inhibitor of this NTPase) has no effect on the quantity of RNA released. The size distribution and percentage of poly A-containing species released from nuclei incubated with or without ATP or the other rNTPs are identical. Hybridization analysis of nuclear RNA before the transport assay revealed mature and precursor k light chain mRNA sequences. Following the transport assay, a significant fraction of k mRNA precursors is chased into mature k mRNA which is found both in nuclear-retained and released RNA.
Switching a molecular shuttle on and off: simple, pH-controlled pseudorotaxanes based on cucurbit[7]uril

Cucurbit[7[uril, the wheel component in two new and structurally simple pseudorotaxanes, shuttles between the two axle termini at low pH, whereas the shuttling motion stops at higher pH, as the wheel is bound to the center of the axle.
A status update on the advanced photon source project — Summer 1993

The Advanced Photon Source Project has passed the mid-point in its construction. The linac and synchrotron booster enclosures are complete. A portion of the experiment hall has been completed and put into use to support accelerator component assembly, test, and installation. Plans for the user lab/office modules and the central laboratory/office complex are well advanced. Installation of the linac injection system has been completed and commissioning is beginning. Installation and commissioning of the positron accumulator ring, the booster synchrotron, the storage ring, and the rf power systems will follow. Accelerator operations capable of supporting the commissioning of the experimental beamlines is planned for the summer of 1995. A strong research program is continuing to produce results supportive of both accelerator and beamline construction and operations. Collaborative Access Teams have been formed to conduct research with the initial set of 32 beamlines that will be available at the completion of the first phase of construction.
On the foci of Tandem Wadsworth spectrographs

The horizontal foci of a Tandem Wadsworth spectrograph are calculated by using the correct ruling densities for both gratings. Results are quite different from those of previous analyses that used approximate ruling densities. Ray tracings confirm the analyses with the correct ruling densities and also indicate that this spectrograph possesses the excellent, nearly stigmatic properties found by the approximate analyses.
Agonizing over agonism: Should asthmatics turn their β-receptors on or off?

Since the development of albuterol >4 decades ago (1), agonists selective for the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) have been the drug of choice for relief of life-threatening bronchospasm experienced by asthmatics. Both short- and long-acting β2AR agonists (SABAs and LABAs, respectively) have also been used extensively for the prophylactic management of asthma symptoms. The therapeutic efficacy of β2AR agonists relates to their ability to directly relax airway smooth muscle to cause airways to dilate and conduct greater airflow. Yet increasing concerns that chronic use of β2AR agonists actually increases mortality in asthmatics have culminated in a recent (and controversial) recommendation by an FDA advisory panel that the risks of two widely-prescribed LABAs outweigh their benefits. Why such risks may exist has puzzled both researchers and clinicians. Some have pointed to tolerance to β-agonists caused by desensitization of airway β2ARs (2). Others have asserted that β-agonists have no direct toxic effects yet their ability to provide symptomatic relief masks an increasing level of airway inflammation (3). In this issue of PNAS, Nguyen et al. (4) shed new light onto the role of β2AR agonism in asthma and suggest the paradoxical notion that blocking β2ARs may be a more effective strategy for managing asthma (see Fig. 1).
A Tersoff-based interatomic potential for wurtzite AlN

Aluminum nitride (AlN) is a popular buffer layer and interlayer. The understanding of how AlN serves as a wetting and fracture-mitigating layer relies on molecular pictures of the AlN layer and the interfaces. However, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies on AIN system, particularly on its wurtzite phase, have been limited. This is because most existing interatomic force fields of AlN target the less common zinc blende phase. Here, we report a new Tersoff-based AlN force field for its wurtzite structure. This potential has been extensively tested in terms of lattice parameters, bulk modulus, cohesive energy, and heat capacity. In addition, thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) of wurtzite AIN, a key property to precisely model heterostructures, has been calculated using MD method. The value of 2.66 x 10 ―6 K ―1 calculated at 300 K for TEC is in excellent agreement with the reported experimental value.
Materials System for Intermediate-Temperature (600-800°C) SOFCs Based on Doped Lanthanum-Gallate Electrolyte

AC complex impedance spectroscopy studies were conducted between 600 and 800°C on symmetrical cells that employed strontium-and-magnesium-doped lanthanum gallate electrolyte, La 0 . 9 Sr 0 . 1 Ga 0 . 8 Mg 0 . 2 O 3 (LSGM). The objective of the study was to identify the materials system for fabrication and evaluation of intermediate-temperature (600-800°C) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The slurry-coated electrode materials had fine porosity to enhance catalytic activity. Cathode materials investigated include La 1 - x Sr x MnO 3 (LSM), LSCF (La 1 - x Sr x Co y Fe 1 - y O 3 ), a two-phase particulate composite consisting of LSM-doped-lanthanum gallate (LSGM), and LSCF-LSGM. The anode materials were Ni-Ce 0 . 8 5 Gd 0 . 1 5 O 2 (Ni-GDC) and Ni-Ce 0 . 6 La 0 . 4 O 2 (Ni-LDC) composites. Experiments conducted with the anode materials investigated the effect of having a barrier layer of GDC or LDC in between the LSGM electrolyte and the Ni-composite anode to prevent adverse reaction of the Ni with lanthanum in LSGM. For proper interpretation of the beneficial effects of the barrier layer, similar measurements were performed without the barrier layer. The ohmic and the polarization resistances of the system were obtained over time as a function of temperature (600-800°C), firing temperature, thickness, and the composition of the electrodes. The study revealed important details pertaining to the ohmic and polarization resistances of the electrode as they relate to stability and the charge-transfer reactions that occur in such electrode structures.
On the Analysis of Fraction Subtraction Data: The DINA Model, Classification, Latent Class Sizes, and the Q-Matrix

Cognitive diagnostic models (CDMs) attempt to uncover latent skills or attributes that examinees must possess in order to answer test items correctly. The DINA (deterministic input, noisy ‘‘and’’) model is a popular CDM that has been widely used. It is shown here that a logistic version of the model can easily be fit with standard software for latent class analysis. A partly Bayesian approach to estimation, posterior mode estimation, is used as a simple alternative to a fully Bayesian approach via Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. A latent-class analysis of a widely analyzed data set, the fraction subtraction data of K. K. Tatsuoka, reveals some neglected problems with respect to the classification of examinees; for example, examinees who get all of the items incorrect are classified as having most of the skills. It is also noted that obtaining large estimates of the latent class sizes can indicate misspecification of the Q-matrix, such as the inclusion of an irrelevant skill. It is shown, analytically an...
Excessive use of force by police: a survey of academic emergency physicians

Objective: To determine the clinical experience, management and training of emergency physicians in the suspected use of excessive force by law enforcement officers. Methods: Surveys were mailed to a random sample of academic emergency physicians in the USA. Results: Of 393 emergency physicians surveyed, 315 (80.2%) responded. Of the respondents, 99.8% (95% CI 98.2% to 100.0%) believed excessive use of force actually occurs and 97.8% (95% CI 95.5% to 99.1%) replied that they had managed patients with suspected excessive use of force. These incidents were not reported by 71.2% (95% CI 65.6% to 76.4%) of respondents, 96.5% (95% CI 93.8% to 98.2%) had no departmental policies and 93.7% (95% CI 90.4% to 96.1%) had not received training in the management of these cases. Conclusions: Suspected excessive use of force is encountered by academic emergency physicians in the USA. There is only limited training or policies for the management of these cases.
Overview of mobile WiMAX technology and evolution

Mobile WiMAX is a fast growing broadband access technology that enables low-cost mobile Internet applications, and realizes the convergence of mobile and fixed broadband access in a single air interface and network architecture. Mobile WiMAX combines OFDMA and advanced MIMO schemes along with flexible bandwidth and fast link adaptation, creating a highly efficient air interface that exceeds the capacity of existing and evolving 3G radio access networks. WiMAX networks, built on all-IP network architecture for plug and play network deployments, can support a mix of different usage and service models. While some consider mobile WiMAX as a candidate for the fourth generation of mobile networks, others view it as the first generation of mobile Internet technologies emerging from a wider ecosystem targeting to extend the success of WiFi over wide area networks supporting mobility. This article provides a high-level overview of mobile WiMAX technology and its evolution roadmap from both radio and network perspectives.
Cloning and Sequence Analysis of a cDNA for the β Subunit of Chicken Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone

The beta subunit of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSHbeta) has been isolated and sequenced in many species, including several mammals and the frog, but not in any avian species. Therefore, the objective of this study was to isolate and sequence a cDNA for chicken TSHbeta. Degenerate oligonucleotide primers were designed, based on conserved regions of TSHbeta from four other species, and used for reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction amplification of a cDNA fragment from total cellular RNA of pituitary glands from 7-day-old chicks. The remaining sequence was completed by rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The predicted amino acid sequence was 70. 4% identical between bovine and chicken, 69.6% identical between chicken and rat, and 57.4% identical between chicken and frog. To test for tissue specificity of the cDNA, total cellular RNA samples from testicle, liver, pituitary, lung, and heart were analyzed by Northern blot. The 32P-labeled antisense riboprobe hybridized to an RNA species of approximately 600-700 bases in pituitary RNA alone, corresponding with the length of TSHbeta mRNA in other species. Gene expression in Day 1 posthatch chickens was then analyzed by ribonuclease protection assay. Anterior pituitary cells of Day 1 chickens were treated for 20 to 24 hr in serum-free medium alone or with medium containing either thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) (10(-8) M) or triiodothyronine (T3) (10(-9) M). The RNA was then harvested from these cells and hybridized with a 32P-labeled antisense riboprobe. Treatment with TRH had no effect on TSHbeta mRNA levels, while T3 significantly decreased (P < 0.05; n = 6 trials) TSHbeta mRNA levels by 45%. Taken together these results indicate that the cDNA sequence derived represents chicken TSHbeta mRNA, and that TSHbeta gene expression is downregulated by thyroid hormones as it is in mammals.
High Barrier Height MIS Diodes on n-InP Using Pd, Ni and Au on a Chemical Oxide

MIS diodes were fabricated using Pd, Ni and Au- contacts on n-InP covered by a 40 A chemically-grown oxide. The oxide had a refractive index of 1.4–1.6 with a composition of mainly In2O3 + some InPO3 near the surface and mixed oxide + InP near the interface. Pd-devices gave the highest barrigr height of 0.80 eV and lowest reverse saturation current density of 3×10−8A/cm2. I-V-T and C-V-T data gave temperature dependence of barrier height and revealed an interface state recombination current mechanism. Richardson plots gave good straight lines when empirically corrected using oB/n instead of just oB.
Integration of ferroelectric BaTiO3 thin films directly on Ni and Ti metallic tapes for structural health monitoring systems and energy harvest applications

ABSTRACT Ferroelectric BaTiO3 thin films were fabricated directly on various metallic substrate materials such as Ni and Ti by using the pulsed laser for the development of structural health monitoring systems and energy harvest applications. Microstructure studies from x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy indicate that the as-grown BaTiO3 thin films have pure BaTiO3 crystal phase. The TEM studies indicate that the BaTiO3 films are composed of crystalline assemblage of nanopillars with average cross sections from 100 nm to 200 nm and can be directly integrated on the Ni tapes without the formation of NiO interlayer suggesting that this system can be developed for super-capacitor devices. The BaTiO3films have good interface structures and strong adhesion with respect to Ni and Ti substrates. Dielectric measurements have shown the hysteresis loop at room temperature in the film with a large remanent polarization, indicating that the ferroelectric domains have been created in the as-deposited BTO films....
Developing countries' debt problems and growth prospects

The past five years have witnessed a large number of events in the international economy of unprecedented magnitude and importance. To name just a few: the worldwide recession of 1980-83 was deeper and longer than any since the Second World War; real primary commodity prices reached their lowest levels since the Great Depression; real interest rates attained unprecedented levels; the world's most important and presumably most stable currency appreciated 50 percent in five years in real terms; and the drop in the rate of inflation exceeded even the most optimistic expectations of policy makers and economists. In the midst of all this, the debt crisis of the developing countries increased anxieties and uncertainties about the international financial system. Partly because so many events were occurring simultaneously, and partly because initial focus was on the immediate liquidity problems of large borrowers, it was perhaps natural to assume that the debt crisis would be resolved as the worldwide recession abated. Initially, therefore, little attention was paid to the impact of the debt problem on the longerterm growth prospects of the developing countries. And, indeed, until the initial crisis phase was successfully passed, the longer term issues could not be addressed. Now, however, seems to be an appropriate time to examine the longer-term aspects of the debt problem. The upswing in the international economy began in 1983, and proceeded at a healthy pace through 1984. Even if there were no concerns as to the sustainability of the recovery, it is already apparent
Parthenolide induces a distinct pattern of oxidative stress in cardiac myocytes.

Abstract Although parthenolide was reported to reduce cardiovascular damage in endotoxic shock and have beneficial effects in myocardial ischemia, its actions on cardiac myocytes have not been reported. Because parthenolide possesses an α-methylene-γ-lactone ring and epoxide residue, we hypothesized that it would induce oxidative stress in cardiac myocytes. Superoxide production and sources, viability, glutathione levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential were studied in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes treated with parthenolide. Parthenolide, dose dependently, induced oxidase activity as assessed by superoxide generation in cell lysates. Superoxide formation was increased more than 4-fold with 50 μM parthenolide. At concentrations > 5 μM, parthenolide decreased cell viability in a dose-and time-dependent manner, and activated the stress MAP kinases JNK and p38. Over 6 h, parthenolide at concentrations > 5 μM markedly depleted intracellular glutathione and led to collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential. At lower parthenolide concentrations ( 5 μM) the primary source was NADPH oxidase. We conclude that parthenolide causes oxidative stress in cardiac myocytes by inducing superoxide formation by mitochondrial and NADPH oxidase in a dose-dependent manner. Parthenolide may be a useful tool for studying the roles of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy and failure.
The Challenge of t(6;9) and FLT3-Positive Acute Myelogenous Leukemia in a Young Adult

Translocation t(6;9) is a rare cytogenetic abnormality found in fewer than 5% of pediatric and adult cases of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The outcomes of t(6;9) AML are generally poor, with low five-year overall survival and increased risk for relapse. Furthermore, FLT3-ITD is one of the most common molecular abnormalities found in AML that is associated with increased risk of treatment failure and mortality. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) with the best available donor is a standard treatment option for these cases once remission is achieved. We report a challenging case of t(6;9) and FLT3-positive AML in a young adult male. After failing multiple standard induction regimens, morphologic remission was eventually achieved with a FLT3 inhibitor (sorafenib) and a hypomethylating agent (azacytidine). However, despite allogeneic HCT and re-initiation of sorafenib in the post-HCT setting, he experienced early relapse with the original [FLT3-ITD and t(6;9)] and new (FLT3-D835 and +8) molecular and cytogenetic markers, respectively. This case highlights the need for improved strategies in the post-HCT setting for high-risk AML.
On the effective bandwidth of sampled signals

Shannon's Sampling Theorem states that if the sampling frequency of a band limited function is chosen to be larger than twice the cutoff frequency of the signal then the cardinal series obtained from the samples coincides with the original function. Hence, we consider signals that are not band limited. In this case there will be an error between the cardinal series and the original function, no matter how fast one samples. In this paper, we show that for signals which can be expressed as an inverse Lebesgue-Stieltjes transform of a function of bounded variation, the cardinal series provides an arbitrarily close uniform approximation by choosing the sampling frequency sufficiently large. We also obtain a lower bound on how small a sampling frequency can be tolerated based on an error criterion.
Database mining: a performance perspective

The authors' perspective of database mining as the confluence of machine learning techniques and the performance emphasis of database technology is presented. Three classes of database mining problems involving classification, associations, and sequences are described. It is argued that these problems can be uniformly viewed as requiring discovery of rules embedded in massive amounts of data. A model and some basic operations for the process of rule discovery are described. It is shown how the database mining problems considered map to this model, and how they can be solved by using the basic operations proposed. An example is given of an algorithm for classification obtained by combining the basic rule discovery operations. This algorithm is efficient in discovering classification rules and has accuracy comparable to ID3, one of the best current classifiers. >
Performance evaluation of ASAP3 for steady-state output analysis

An experimental performance evaluation of ASAP3 is presented, including several queueing systems with characteristics typically encountered in practical applications of steady-state simulation analysis procedures. Based on the method of nonoverlapping batch means, ASAP3 is a sequential procedure designed to produce a confidence-interval estimator of a steady-state mean response that satisfies user-specified precision and coverage-probability requirements. ASAP3 is compared with its predecessor ASAP and the batch means procedure of Law and Carson (LC) in the following test problems: (a) queue waiting times in the M/M/1/LIFO, M/H2/1, and M/M/1 queues with 80% server utilization; and (b) response (sojourn) times in a central server model of a computer system. Regarding conformance to the given precision and coverage-probability requirements, ASAP3 compared favorably with the ASAP and LC procedures. Regarding the average sample sizes needed to satisfy progressively more stringent precision requirements, ASAP3's efficiency was reasonable for the given test problems.
Physical Basis for Statistical Patterns in Complex Earthquake Populations: Models, Predictions and Tests

Understanding the physics of earthquakes and the space-time patterns they produce is illuminated by the use of coarse-grained models and simulations that capture the basic physical processes, and that are amenable to analysis. We present a summary of ideas that describe the nucleation, growth, and arrest of earthquakes on individual faults. Under shear loading, we find that faults reside in a metastable state near a classical spinodal that governs the nucleation and growth of slip events. The roughness of an associated stress distribution field E(xt)determines whether slip events are confined within the initial high stress patch, or break away and grow to become very large. We find a critical value of roughness that is associated with a first-order, “order–Cdisorder” transition. We also give a number of predictions, examples and applications of these ideas, and indicate how they might be tested through systematic observational programs.
Mycoplasmas in the etiology of multifactorial respiratory disease

The avian mycoplasmas pathogenic for commercial poultry, Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in chickens and turkeys, and Mycoplasma meleagridis and Mycoplasma iowae in turkeys are egg-transmitted infections and exhibit wide variations in clinical manifestations. Mycoplasma gallisepticum strains vary widely in virulence, tissue tropism, and antigenic makeup and have the ability to alter the expression of major surface antigenic proteins. Although less well studied, strains of M. synoviae, M. meleagridis, and M. iowae appear to exhibit similar variability. Intraspecies variability among mycoplasma strains and their ability to interact with other disease-producing factors explain the wide variability of clinical manifestations, difficulties in diagnosis, their ability to persist within the host for long periods of time, and many of the difficulties involved in control and eradication programs. Mycoplasmas are also well known for their interactions with other infectious agents and environmental factors in producing clinical disease. Control of the clinical manifestations of Mycoplasma infections is simplified when concurrent infections are minimized and optimum environmental conditions are provided.
Impact of Positive Positron Emission Tomography on Prediction of Freedom From Progression After Stanford V Chemotherapy in Hodgkin's Disease

Purpose To correlate [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([18F]FDG-PET) status after chemotherapy, but before radiation, with outcome in patients treated with the Stanford V regimen. Patients and Methods We analyzed retrospectively 81 patients with Hodgkin's disease who had serial [18F]FDG-PET scans performed at baseline and again at the completion of Stanford V chemotherapy, before planned radiotherapy. Patients with favorable stage I/II (nonbulky mediastinal disease) and those with bulky mediastinal disease or stage III/IV were scanned after 8 and 12 weeks of chemotherapy, respectively. Radiotherapy fields were determined before starting chemotherapy based on baseline computed tomography scans. Results After chemotherapy, six of 81 patients had residual [18F]FDG-PET–positive sites, all in sites for which radiotherapy was planned. Four of the six patients with positive [18F]FDG-PET scans after chemotherapy experienced relapse compared with just three of 75 patients with negative [18F]FDG...
Microsatellite markers for the native Texas perennial grass, Panicum hallii (Poaceae)

PREMISE OF THE STUDY We developed microsatellites for Panicum hallii for studies of gene flow, population structure, breeding experiments, and genetic mapping. METHODS AND RESULTS Next-generation (454) genomic sequence data were used to design markers. Eighteen robust markers were discovered, 15 of which were polymorphic across six accessions of P. hallii var. hallii. Fourteen of the markers cross-amplified in a P. capillare accession. For the 15 polymorphic markers, the total number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 26 (mean: 11.0) across six populations (11-19 individuals per population). Observed heterozygosity (mean: 0.031) was 13.7 times lower than the expected heterozygosity (mean: 0.426). CONCLUSIONS The deficit of heterozygous individuals is consistent with P. hallii having a high rate of self-fertilization. These markers will be useful for studies in P. hallii and related species.
Climate change impacts on terrestrial ecosystems in metropolitan Chicago and its surrounding, multi-state region.

This paper describes the potential impacts of warming temperatures and changing precipitation on plants, wildlife, invasive species, pests, and agricultural ecosystems across the multi-state region centered on Chicago, Illinois. We examine a geographic area that captures much of Lake Michigan, including a complex mosaic of urbanization and agriculture surrounding southern Lake Michigan. We consider species currently present within this broad region as well as species that are expected to move into or out of the area as climate zones shift northward through the coming century. Our analysis draws upon disparate data sources to compile projections. We conclude that a complex mixture of land use poses particular challenges to natural ecosystems in this region under climate change. Dispersal is likely to be limited for some species, and some populations of native taxa may already be reduced due to habitat loss. Other species can persist, even thrive, within a mixed landscape mosaic, provided natural areas and green spaces are available. If such spaces are somehow connected, they can provide opportunities for native species to inhabit and move through the metropolitan region (perhaps even better than the landscapes previously dominated by agriculture). Strategies for adapting regional agriculture and minimizing pest outbreaks also call for creative management intervention. With additional research, Chicago and its surrounding environs have an opportunity to provide leadership on effective management of natural resources under climate change.
Network Management and Control in Broadband Telecommunication Networks: Research Issues and Some Partial Solutions

In this paper we first survey briefly the state of the art in current telecommunication networks. We then focus on ATM-based broadband integrated networks of the near future. Examples include the IEEE 802.6 DQDB metropolitan area network standard and Bellcore’s Switched Multimegabit Data Service (SMDS), which uses the 802.6 protocol and ATM at its lowest layers. Looking further into the future it is projected that lightwave- (fiber optic-) based networks may be deployed running at Gbps and Tbps rates. These very high speed networks introduce critical problems of management and control. These include the design of end-to-end lean (lightweight) protocols; access, flow and congestion control; and the real-time detection and identification of network faults when they occur. Some representative ongoing work at Columbia in each of these areas is described, with a hope that it may stimulate additional work elsewhere.
Underlying theories of practical value in technology transfer across cultural boundaries: an application study

This paper discusses not only the nature and causes of barriers arising from cultural differences when developing and implementing information systems. It also discusses the ways to cross these barriers when introducing information technology (IT). It is based on the experiences of the authors in crossing such barriers when doing systems development work for the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) and for other international and domestic enterprises. The paper deals with both the theoretical research which proved useful in this work, as well as some of the practical aspects of bridging the gap between that theory and its application. >
Improved gas metal arc welding multi-physics process model and its application to MIL A46100 armor-grade steel butt-welds

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop multi-physics computational model for the conventional gas metal arc welding (GMAW) joining process has been improved with respect to its predictive capabilities regarding the spatial distribution of the mechanical properties (strength, in particular) within the weld. Design/methodology/approach – The improved GMAW process model is next applied to the case of butt-welding of MIL A46100 (a prototypical high-hardness armor-grade martensitic steel) workpieces using filler-metal electrodes made of the same material. A critical assessment is conducted of the basic foundation of the model, including its five modules, each dedicated to handling a specific aspect of the GMAW process, i.e.: first, electro-dynamics of the welding-gun; second, radiation/convection controlled heat transfer from the electric arc to the workpiece and mass transfer from the filler-metal consumable electrode to the weld; third, prediction of the temporal evolution and the spatial distribu...
DR-Integrator

Summary: DNA copy number alterations (CNA) frequently underlie gene expression changes by increasing or decreasing gene dosage. However, only a subset of genes with altered dosage exhibit concordant changes in gene expression. This subset is likely to be enriched for oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and can be identified by integrating these two layers of genome-scale data. We introduce DNA/RNA-Integrator (DR-Integrator), a statistical software tool to perform integrative analyses on paired DNA copy number and gene expression data. DR-Integrator identifies genes with significant correlations between DNA copy number and gene expression, and implements a supervised analysis that captures genes with significant alterations in both DNA copy number and gene expression between two sample classes. Availability: DR-Integrator is freely available for non-commercial use from the Pollack Lab at http://pollacklab.stanford.edu/ and can be downloaded as a plug-in application to Microsoft Excel and as a package for the R statistical computing environment. The R package is available under the name ‘DRI’ at http://cran.r-project.org/. An example analysis using DR-Integrator is included as supplemental material. Contact:ksalari@stanford.edu; pollack1@stanford.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Using Back-Scattering Interferometry to Aid in Probe Development and Drug Efficacy Monitoring

The prospects for using back-scattering interferometry to select and qualify molecular imaging agents based on mechanism of action studies will be discussed, as will its use to perform companion diagnostics in the near-patient setting
Ultrafast Excited-State Dynamics in a Fluoro-Aluminum Phthalocyanine Thin Film

Using femtosecond pump-probe spectroscopy, bleaching of the π-π* absorption Q-band, and photo-induced absorption on the high energy side of the Q-band, have been observed and time-resolved in a nearly-amorphous thin film of fluoro-aluminum phthalocyanine. Following excitation, the induced absorption signal develops as the absorption saturation signal diminishes, suggesting exciton decay into a subgap state. The different bimolecular decay dynamics observed for the absorption saturation (τ eff ≈700 fs) and induced absorption (τ eff ≈ 2 ps) signals support this conclusion. Possible origins of the subgap state are discussed. In addition, polarization-dependent spectral hole burning is observed at very early times. These results suggest the need for exploration of thin phthalocyanine films which are ordered in three dimensions over distances of at least 200–300 A. Initial femtosecond results for epitaxially-grown chloro-indium phthalocyanine structures, which meet these criteria, are similar to those for the nearly-amorphous film, but indicate an additional polarization-dependent photo-induced absorption within the Q-band.
Quantitative 1,10-Phenanthroline Catalyst-Poisoning Kinetic Studies of Rh(0) Nanoparticle and Rh4 Cluster Benzene Hydrogenation Catalysts: Estimates of the Poison Kassociation Binding Constants, of the Equivalents of Poison Bound and of the Number of Catalytically Active Sites for Each Catalyst

Quantitative catalyst poisoning studies are of fundamental interest and importance because (a) knowledge of the number of true active sites is required for calculation of the true turnover frequency = (moles of product)/(moles of actual active sites)(time), and because (b) quantitative catalyst poisoning is proving to be a key, required piece of data en route to distinguishing single metal (M1), small metal cluster (e.g., M4), or metal nanoparticle (Mn) catalysis. In evidence of the latter point, quantitative catalyst poisoning experiments using 1,10-phenanthroline as the poison proved to be crucial in the recent identification of Rh4 subnanometer clusters as the true benzene hydrogenation catalyst in a system beginning with [RhCp*Cl2]2 (Cp*: (η5-C5(CH3)5)) at 100 °C and 50 atm initial H2 pressure (Bayram et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc.2011, 133, 18889). However and despite the success of those quantitative poisoning studies, five questions about such poisoning studies remained unanswered, questions posed and th...
Resonant Lock-In of Unguided Rockets Having Nonlinear Aerodynamic Properties

A non-linear model for the steady-state coupled pitch-yaw-rolling motion of a rocket in free-flight is presented. The long-term angular motion of a slightly asymmetric missile having non-linear transverse aerodynamics is assumed to be harmonic. The amplitude-rate and phase-rate equations of the steady-state response to the aerodynamic trim are obtained. The non-linear rolling motion, including an induced roll moment by the trim angle that can cause lock-in at resonance, is coupled to the transverse equation of motion to yield steady resonant lock-in solutions. The stability of the equilibrium points is subsequently determined through the character of the solutions of a fifth-order linear variational system. Finally several comparisons with three-degree-of-freedom computations are made and the effective dimensionality of the state-space formulation is discussed.
Breakdown of Rat Liver Polyribosomes by Benzene

SummaryAdministration of benzene to rats intraperitoneally causes breakdown of liver polyribosomes and appearance of a high concentration of particles sedimenting in the monomer-dimer region of the gradient. Ribosomes from benzene-treated animals were functional in in vitro protein synthesis but their endogenous capacity to incorporate L-3H-phenylalanine into protein was significantly less than that of the controls (50%). There was, however, no difference in the pH 5.1 enzyme activities of benzene-treated and untreated animals.
A Novel, Non-High-Dilution Method for Preparation of 1,1,2,2,9,9,10,10-Octafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane

A novel synthesis of octafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane (AF4), one that remarkably does not require the use of high dilution methodology, is presented. Using this unprecedented methodology, AF4 is produced in 60% yield in a reaction of Zn with 0.35 M p-bis(chlorodifluoromethyl)benzene in DMA at 100 °C. The process comprises a convenient, inexpensive, and highly scaleable preparation of AF4 for both research and commercial purposes.
Alternative and Complementary Medicine for Gastroparesis

Common gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome and gastroesophogeal reflux disease, and other less common GI diseases, like gastroparesis, are believed to result in 50 million visits per year to conventionally trained physicians. It is estimated that these visits cost approximately $90 billion per year in the USA alone. As with many chronic medical disorders that are difficult to treat, patients turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Patients report reasons for the use of CAM therapies in GI disorders that range from dissatisfaction of conventional care, concern for side effects from drug therapies, or a desire to incorporate more natural therapies. It is not the use of CAM therapies that should alarm conventional GI practitioners, but rather the idea that patients are not disclosing the use of CAM practices. While most CAM practices have a low-risk profile, the combination of medicinal plants with pharmaceutical medications, for example, could result in adverse outcomes. It is incumbent on conventional practitioners to ask their patients about all of the therapies and supplements they are using and do so in such a way as to not alienate the patient.
Uniform Harbourne–Huneke bounds via flat extensions

Abstract Over an arbitrary field F , Harbourne [3] conjectured that the symbolic power I ( N ( r − 1 ) + 1 ) ⊆ I r for all r > 0 and all homogeneous ideals I in S = F [ P N ] = F [ x 0 , … , x N ] . The conjecture has been disproven for select values of N ≥ 2 : first by Dumnicki, Szemberg, and Tutaj-Gasinska in characteristic zero [7] , and then by Harbourne and Seceleanu in positive characteristic [13] . However, the ideal containments above do hold when, e.g., I is a monomial ideal in S [3, Ex. 8.4.5] . As a sequel to [21] , we present criteria for containments of type I ( N ( r − 1 ) + 1 ) ⊆ I r for all r > 0 and certain classes of ideals I in a prodigious class of normal rings. Of particular interest is a result for monomial primes in tensor products of affine semigroup rings. Indeed, we explain how to give effective multipliers N in several cases including: the D-th Veronese subring of any polynomial ring F [ x 1 , … , x n ] ( n ≥ 1 ) ; and the extension ring F [ x 1 , … , x n , z ] / ( z D − x 1 ⋯ x n ) of F [ x 1 , … , x n ] .
THE ECONOMIC PAMPHLETEER: Rethinking the Value of Work

First paragraphs: "How can it be that more than a century after muckrakers exposed the deplorable conditions of workers in the food system, that harassment of workers, rapes in the fields, squalid living conditions, pesticide showers, hazardous working conditions, and slave wages continue be the norm?" (Kolodinsky, 2014, p. 198). In reviewing the documentary film Food Chain, Jane Kolodinsky provides this fitting description of the inevitable consequences of the commodification of labor in an unrestrained market economy. The deplorable working conditions in the food industry have not been corrected because such conditions are inherent in the industrial system of food production. More effective labor unions and ethical choices by consumers might relieve some of the suffering—at least temporarily. However, the well-being of workers in the food industry and elsewhere will not be significantly improved until we rethink the value of work and restrain our economic system accordingly....
Critical Role for CD81 in B Cell Activation.

Abstract CD81 is a component of the CD19/CD21 signaling complex in B cells. CD81 was originally discovered as target of an anti-proliferative antibody in a human B cell lymphoma. However, the exact role of CD81 in B cell function is not known. Here we studied B cells from CD81 knockout mice. We demonstrate that upon BCR induction these B cells 1. flux higher intracellular free calcium ion; 2. increase the phosphorylation of BCR-related proximal and distal substrates and 3. increase their proliferation. Similarly, polyclonal activation of CD81-deficient B cells with LPS induced increased proliferation and antibody secretion. Consistent with these intrinsic B cell capabilities, CD81-deficient mice mounted significantly higher immune response upon antigenic stimulation. In addition, bone marrow perisinusoidal B cells (IgM+IgD+) capable of mounting T-independent immune responses against blood-borne pathogens were over represented in CD81-deficient mice. These cells also displayed increased calcium influx kinetics as splenic B cells and produced higher amounts of antibody after polyclonal stimulation. Taken together, these results suggest that CD81 is involved in suppressing B cell activation.
Pathological Confirmation of Optic Neuropathy in Familial Dysautonomia

Clinical data suggest that optic neuropathy and retinal ganglion cell loss are the main cause of visual decline in patients with familial dysautonomia, but this has not previously been confirmed by pathological analyses. We studied retinas and optic nerves in 6 eyes from 3 affected patients obtained at autopsy. Analyses included routine neurohistology and immunohistochemistry for neurofilaments, cytochrome c oxidase (COX), and melanopsin-containing ganglion cells. We observed profound axon loss in the temporal portions of optic nerves with relative preservation in the nasal portions; this correlated with clinical and optical coherence tomography findings in 1 patient. Retinal ganglion cell layers were markedly reduced in the central retina, whereas melanopsin-containing ganglion cells were relatively spared. COX staining was reduced in the temporal portions of the optic nerve indicating reduced mitochondrial density. Axonal swelling with degenerating lysosomes and mitochondria were observed by electron microscopy. These findings support the concept that there is a specific optic neuropathy and retinopathy in patients with familial dysautonomia similar to that seen in other optic neuropathies with mitochondrial dysfunction. This raises the possibility that defective expression of the IkB kinase complex-associated protein (IKAP) resulting from mutations in IKBKAP affects mitochondrial function in the metabolism-dependent retinal parvocellular ganglion cells in this condition.