cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mutation and Human Cancer

Publisher Summary Genetic and nongenetic cancers may have a common basis and an understanding of oncogenic mechanisms in genetic types should contribute to such understanding for cancer generally. But there remains the question whether genetic change occurs in cancer generally. Genetic susceptibility to cancer is of several kinds, but may be classified as chromosomal, Mendelian recessive, Mendelian dominant, or polygenic. This classification has a pathological significance in that the chromosomal and recessive classes consist of diseases that have increased risk of cancer, whereas the ominant class includes highly penetrant tumors and tumor syndromes. A polygenic class is noted because there may be increased risk of cancer among the relatives of cancer subjects even when identifiable recessive and dominant conditions are excluded. Unfortunately, as with many polygenic disorders, the application of a classification provides little understanding or clinical value. Individual polygenes and their effects have not been identified, and any advance in his respect will probably come from a study of animal models. The chapter, therefore, limits the discussion to the chromosomal, recessive, and dominant classes, to a genetic assessment of common cancers, and to a genetic cancer model and its consequences.
New species of Macrobaris Champion grass weevils from the New World tropics and subtropics (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Baridinae)

Macrobaris Champion is synonymized with Iops Casey (new synonym), transferred from Baridini: Baridina to Apostasimerini: Madopterina (new placement), and revised. Twenty one species are documented from fourteen countries, ranging from the USA in the north to Paraguay in the south. Thirteen new species are described: M. acutipennis new species (Mexico), M. aquilonia new species (USA), M. balicosa new species (Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela), M. colemycter new species (Mexico), M. exerens new species (Venezuela), M. laciniosa new species (Mexico), M. lateriquetra new species (Costa Rica, Panama), M. leptochele new species (Peru), M. runa new species (Panama, Peru), M. spinigera new species (Brazil, Venezuela), M. stictica new species (Ecuador, Peru), M. unguiculus new species (Ecuador), and M. zacatensis new species (Costa Rica). Iops bicolor Hustache is excluded from the genus and transferred to Madopterina incertae sedis (new placement). Five species were collected from Poaceae, four of them from bamboos. A dichotomous key for the identification of currently known species is provided, with M. sparsa Casey treated as a morphologically unresolved complex. Limnobaris rufula Champion is transferred to Valdenus Casey, as V. rufulus new combination, and is reported from Costa Rica for the first time. (© 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Monetary policy and short-term interest rates: New evidence on the liquidity effect

Abstract There is evidence of a strong liquidity effect in the period October 1979-October 1982, when the Federal Reserve targeted the growth rate of M 1, and thus monetary surprises were more exogenous than they were in other periods.
LENS DEVELOPMENT. II. THE DIFFERENTIATION OF EMBRYONIC CHICK LENS EPITHELIAL CELLS IN VITRO AND IN VIVO.

Abstract The behavior of lens epithelial cells from six-day chick embryos was studied in three different experimental situations: (a) explantation into several different fluid culture media, (b) explantation followed by reimplanlation into lensectomized embryonic eyes, and (c) explantation followed by reimplantation into the embryonic coelomic cavity. Specimens were examined histologically, and the total volume of the lens material of each specimen was determined from the planimetry of serial sections. The results were interpreted as follows: 1. 1. With a small amount of protein supplement in the culture medium, embryonic lens epithelial cells are capable of a limited amount of independent cytodifferentiation. Without protein supplement they fail to undergo any fiber formation. 2. 2. When returned to the eye environment, cultured epithelial explants will respond with a resumption of growth, with further cellular differentiation, and with at least some of the morphogenetic changes necessary to form a lens. The embryonic coelom will not support these responses. 3. 3. The initiation of the formation of lens fibers is not sufficient for their complete autonomous maturation. 4. 4. The internal architecture of the developing lens is not the only determinant of its overall shape.
THE TARGETS OF ONLINE PROTEST: State and private targets of four online protest tactics

A major debate has erupted in recent work on social movements about the role of the state in protest, with some advocating alternative approaches to the study of social movements, such as a focus on institutional authorities. Using data on four types of online protest (petitions, boycotts, and letter-writing and email campaigns), acquired using an innovative new methodology that produces a generalizable sample of online protest actions, this paper addresses this debate. While the state is a frequent target of online protest, a significant portion of protest activity targets other institutional authorities. The authors' analyses disaggregate the state and distinguish between types of institutional authorities, further deepening the understanding of both state and non-state actors. Their data also suggest an association between tactical forms and their targets. Finally, by using Internet data, this paper contributes to an under-studied area of social movement research: online protest.
Coastal remote sensing through sensor and data fusion with CZMIL

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has advanced coastal mapping technologies for the past 2 decades. Advancements in both coastal mapping data acquisition technology and data fusion techniques are executed through the Joint Airborne Lidar Bathymetry Technical Center of eXpertise. The Scanning Hydrographic Operational Airborne Lidar Survey system was initially designed in 1994 to produce bathymetric maps of the sea floor immediately surrounding federal navigation channels. The 2003 Compact Hydrographic Airborne Rapid Total Survey system integrated multiple topographic and bathymetric lidar sub-systems, an aerial camera, and a hyperspectral imager using a unique data fusion paradigm for use in regional coastal applications. The latest sensor development effort, the Coastal Zone Mapping and Imaging Lidar system, provides the next generation of coastal mapping technology through state-of-the-art lasers, receivers, scanners, and imagers. These advancements increase system performance over a wider range of water clarity conditions compared to existing coastal mapping technologies. Further, temporal and geometric problems in the data streams are eliminated by the simultaneous collection and sharing of a single navigation solution. The CZMIL effort bundles a multi-tiered software development effort concurrent with the hardware improvements. CZMIL will enable the production of both traditional and innovative value-added information products that address regional physical and environmental concerns. This paper provides an overview of CZMIL technology, its data processing environment and anticipated data products.
N,N′‐Bis(tert‐butoxycarbonyl)‐N′′‐trifluoromethanesulfonyl guanidine

[145013-06-5] C12H20F3N3O6S (MW 391.36) InChI = 1S/C12H20F3N3O6S/c1-10(2,3)23-8(19)16-7(17-9(20)24-11(4,5)6)18-25(21,22)12(13,14)15/h1-6H3,(H2,16,17,18,19,20) InChIKey = GOQZIPJCBUYLIR-UHFFFAOYSA-N (electrophilic reagent that specifically reacts with amines to yield substituted guanidines1-4) Alternate Name: (tert-butoxycarbonylamino-trifluoromethanesulfonylimino-methyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester. Physical Data: mp 114–115 °C. Solubility: soluble in CHCl3, CH2Cl2, MeOH, DMF, and most organic solvents; insoluble in H2O. Form Supplied in: nonhygroscopic, white crystalline solid. Analysis of Reagent Purity: NMR, HPLC, and elemental analysis. Preparative Methods: A solution of N,N′-diBoc-guanidine (29 mmol) and NEt3 (36 mmol) in anhydrous CH2Cl2 (100 mL) was cooled to −78 °C under N2. Triflic anhydride (35 mmol) was added dropwise over a period of 20 min, and the resulting mixture was allowed to warm to −20 °C for 4 h. A 2 M aq NaHSO4 solution was added at −20 °C such that the reaction temperature does not rise above −10 °C, and the resulting layers were stirred vigorously for 5 min. The organic layer was washed with 2 M NaHSO4, H2O, and brine and then dried (MgSO4).1, 2 Purification: flash column chromatography (20% hexanes in CH2Cl2). Handling, Storage, and Precautions: indefinitely stable at rt.
Preclinical studies of alcohol binge drinking

Binge drinking is prevalent and has serious biomedical consequences. In children, adolescents, and young adults, it is a prominent risk factor for later development of alcohol-use disorders. Many preclinical models have been employed to study the genetic risks for and biomedical consequences of alcohol drinking. However, these models historically did not result in blood-alcohol concentrations (BACs) exceeding 80 mg%; this relatively modest level is the threshold that currently defines a binge session, according to the NIAAA and CDC. Nevertheless, in alcohol-dependent rodents, binge drinking has been well documented. Key neurobiological substrates localized to brain reward and stress systems have been identified. Studies of newer models of binge drinking without dependence are reviewed here. In these models, rodents, non-human primates, and flies will drink enough to reach high BACs. They often display observable signs of intoxication. The neurobiological consequences of these episodes of binge drinking without dependence are reviewed, and preliminary evidence for roles for GABA, glutamate, opioid peptides, and corticotropin releasing factor are discussed, as is the need for more work to identify the antecedents and consequences of binge drinking in both animal models and humans.
A mechanism of suppression of TGF–β/SMAD signaling by NF-κB/RelA

A number of pathogenic and proinflammatory stimuli, and the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) exert opposing activities in cellular and immune responses. Here we show that the RelA subunit of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB/RelA) is necessary for the inhibition of TGF-β-induced phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and DNA binding of SMAD signaling complexes by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The antagonism is mediated through up-regulation of Smad7 synthesis and induction of stable associations between ligand-activated TGF-β receptors and inhibitory Smad7. Down-regulation of endogenous Smad7 by expression of antisense mRNA releases TGF-β/SMAD-induced transcriptional responses from suppression by cytokine-activated NF-κB/RelA. Following stimulation with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and interleukin-1β (IL-1β, NF-κB/RelA induces Smad7 synthesis through activation of Smad7 gene transcription. These results suggest a mechanism of suppression of TGF-β/SMAD signaling by opposing stimuli mediated through the activation of inhibitory Smad7 by NF-κB/RelA.
Studies of the nature of binding sites of first row transition elements bound to aquatic and soil humic substances using X-ray absorption spectroscopy

Abstract The coordination environments of first row transition elements (Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn) complexed by aquatic and soil humic substances were studied using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). With the assistance of bond network analysis, analysis of X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra and radial structure functions (RSF) derived from extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra of Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn in humic substances indicate an octahedral binding environment for Co, Ni, and Zn and a tetragonally-distorted octahedral binding environment for Cu. Analysis of EXAFS spectra of each element provides detailed information on the internuclear distances, bond angles, and Debye-Waller factors within the first two atomic shells surrounding Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn bound to humic substances. We interpret the presence of C atoms in the second atomic shell of the metal binding site as further evidence that Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn form innersphere complexes with humic substances. The number and type of ligands involved in the binding are different for different elements.
WE-F-105-04: Evaluation of the Eclipse Electron Monte Carlo Algorithm Based On Patient Specific Dosimetry Measurement

Purpose: To evaluate the Eclipse electron Monte Carlo (eMC) dose calculation algorithm using patient specific dosimetry measurements, and to investigate possible patient specific QA guideline. Methods: Electron treatments were planned for 58 patients on Eclipse (Version 10.0) using the eMC algorithm for two Varian TrueBeam linear accelerators (Linac‐A and Linac‐B). The dose calculations were based on patient anatomy (patient plan), and a solid‐water phantom (QA plan). The calculation results were compared with physics measurement using a solid‐water phantom and a pinpoint ion chamber. Results: The monitor units as calculated on the QA plans were (2.1±2.0)% higher than the measurement on both accelerators, excluding outliers with small fields (3 cm or less) and extended SSD (above 105 cm). The difference of QA plan and measurement was consistent with the calculation uncertainty of the eMC algorithm (2%). The monitor units as calculated on the patient plans were (8.0±5.0)% (Linac‐A) and (5.5±5.0)% (Linac‐B) higher than the corresponding measurement. However, we observed that the eMC algorithm under‐estimated the dose for one patient treated on nose, by as much as 28.5% for the patient plan and 12.9% for the QA plan. For this patient, a calculation based on an output look‐up table was within 2% of the measurement. Conclusion: The measurements indicate that the eMC algorithm predicts dose reasonably well for QA plans using the same homogeneous phantom. However, for CT‐based patient plans, the eMC algorithm generates a larger number of monitor units versus the QA plan. It may reflect the impact of patient surface curvature and tissue inhomogeneity to the eMC algorithm and further investigation is needed. Caution should be taken for eMC patient plan with small field size and extended SSD. A lookup table of output factors based on measurement can be generated as a quick reference for electron dose calculation.
Capacitive-grid beam splitters for far-infrared and millimeter-wave interferometers.

A beam splitter intended for operation in Fourier transform spectrometers is described. The beam splitter, composed of metallic dots evaporated onto a transparent substrate, acts as a capacitive grid. Construction of the beam splitter and spectra obtained using it are presented. The effect of variation of dot size and interdot distance is discussed. Advantages and disadvantages of using this device in interferometers are presented.
Paradoxical Embolism: An Underrecognized Problem

Despite reports of the clinical presentations and devastating consequences of paradoxical embolus (PDE) for more than a century, this diagnosis continues to be frequently missed. Because the prevalence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) is 27 to 35% in the normal population and the presence of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus may not be clinically obvious, a high suspicion for PDE is needed in the event of unexplained arterial occlusion. While contrast echocardiography and transcranial Doppler ultrasound have facilitated clinical recognition of PDE, the optimum approach to diagnosis requires clarification. Primary therapy for patients with PDE is anticoagulation, with thrombolytics considered in carefully selected individuals, but there is little published information regarding long-term treatment and outcomes. Prevention remains essential whenever possible. It is not yet defined whether prophylactic treatment of persons with recognized predispositions to PDE (eg, PFO and pulmonary hypertension) is beneficial. (CHEST 1995; 108:549-58)
Formation of hydrogen peroxide and N-hydroxylated amines catalyzed by pulmonary flavin-containing monooxygenases in the presence of primary alkylamines.

Abstract In an atypical reaction, incubation of purified rabbit pulmonary flavin-containing monooxygenase with certain primary alkylamines results in the oxidation of NADPH and the formation of hydrogen peroxide. In addition, significant amounts of N-hydroxylated primary amine are also generated, as determined by colorimetric assay and GC MS analysis of n-octylamine metabolites. Similar reactions appear to be catalyzed by the mouse pulmonary enzyme. In contrast, incubation of primary alkylamines with hepatic flavin-containing monooxygenases from rabbit, mouse, or pig does not result in NADPH oxidation or metabolism. Another effect of primary alkylamines is marked activation of the mouse pulmonary and pig hepatic flavin-containing monooxygenases with some substrates. The structural requirements for primary alkylamines to elicit NADPH oxidation by the rabbit pulmonary enzyme or to activate the mouse pulmonary and pig hepatic enzymes are identical. This indicates that different flavin-containing monooxygenases probably have a conserved alkylamine-binding site of defined specificity. In the case of the rabbit pulmonary enzyme, this binding may occur very close to or at the catalytic site resulting in some N-hydroxylation of the alkylamine.
Regulation of chromatin assembly/disassembly by Rtt109p, a histone H3 Lys56-specific acetyltransferase, in vivo

Rtt109p, a histone acetyltransferase, associates with active genes and acetylates lysine 56 on histone H3 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, the functional role of Rtt109p or H3 Lys56 acetylation in chromatin assembly/disassembly (and hence gene expression) immediately switching transcription on or off has not been clearly elucidated in vivo. Here, we show that Rtt109p promotes the eviction of histone H3 from a fast inducible yeast gene, GAL1, following transcriptional initiation via histone H3 Lys56 acetylation. Conversely, the deposition of histone H3 to GAL1 is significantly decreased in the presence of Rtt109p following transcriptional termination. Intriguingly, we also find that the deposition of histone H2B on preexisting non-acetylated histone H3 Lys56 at GAL1 in Δrtt109 is significantly increased independently of histone H3 deposition immediately following transcriptional termination subsequent to a short induction. Consistently, histone H2B is not efficiently evicted from GAL1 in the absence of Rtt109p immediately following transcriptional induction. Furthermore, we show that the stimulated eviction or reduced deposition of histones by Rtt109p promotes the association of RNA polymerase II with GAL1 and hence the synthesis of GAL1 mRNA. These results, taken together, support the fact that Rtt109p regulates the deposition/eviction of histone H2B in addition to its role in stimulating histone H3 eviction, thus providing insight into chromatin assembly/disassembly and hence gene expression in vivo.
Cox-Maze IV Results for Patients With Lone Atrial Fibrillation Versus Concomitant Mitral Disease

Background This study compared Cox-Maze IV (CMIV) outcomes for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with lone AF vs those with AF and mitral valve (MV) disease. Methods Since 2002, 200 patients have undergone a CMIV procedure for lone AF (n = 101) or concomitantly with MV operations (n = 99). Preoperative, perioperative, and late outcomes between these groups were compared. Data were collected prospectively and reported at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results Lone AF patients had AF of longer duration; patients with AF and MV disease were older, with larger left atria and worse New York Heart Association classification ( p p > 0.05, respectively) was similar between both groups. Perioperative atrial tachyarrhythmias were more prevalent in patients with concomitant MV operations (57% vs 41%, p = 0.03); however, freedom from AF and antiarrhythmics was similar for both groups at 12 months (76% and 77%). The only predictor for atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence or arrhythmic drug dependence was failure to isolate the posterior left atrium ( p Conclusions Patients with AF and MV disease have distinct comorbidities compared with patients with lone AF. However, the CMIV is safe and effective in both groups and should be considered for patients with AF undergoing MV operations. Patients with MV disease had more atrial tachyarrhythmias at 3 months, but freedom from AF and antiarrhythmics was similar to patients with lone AF at 1 year. The posterior left atrium should be isolated in every patient, because this was the only predictor for failure of the CMIV for either group.
Remission induction in children with acute non-lymphocytic leukemia using cytosine arabinoside and doxorubicin or daunorubicin: a report from the childrens cancer study group

Four hundred ninety evaluable patients were treated on an induction regimen consisting of two to four courses of cytosine arabinoside plus an anthracycline. Overall, 78% of patients went into remission, 10% died during induction, and 12% were induction failures. For the first 152 patients, courses consisted of 7 days continuous infusion with cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C, 100 mg/m2) and 3 days of doxorubicin (30 mg/m2). Because of unacceptable toxicity, particularly for children less than 3 years of age, the anthracycline was changed to daunorubicin, and the doses of both induction drugs for children under 3 was reduced. For children aged 3 years and older the change in anthracycline was associated with a significant increase in induction failures (7% to 16%, P = .04) and a decrease in deaths (15% to 8%, P = .09). For younger children, for whom doses were also changed, the effect was greater; Mortality decreased from 29% to 1% (P less than .0001), and the remission induction rate increased from 66% to 88% (P = .005). The therapy modifications also influenced survival following remission induction: Daunorubicin-treated patients, aged 3 years and over, did significantly better than those given doxorubicin (P = .03), but the opposite was seen in younger children (P = .06). Gastrointestinal and skin toxicities and septicemia were significantly more common when doxorubicin was being used, but the extent of myelosuppression was similar for the two anthracyclines.
Rubella Virus: Inhibition in vitro by Amantadine Hydrochloride

Amantadine (or 1-adamantanamine) hydrochloride, a compound reported to be active against influenza viruses and Sendai virus, inhibited the growth of rubella virus in tissue culture. The antiviral activity appears at an early phase of the infection and is not due to direct inactivation of the virus.
Prothrombin activation: Ac-Globulin, lipid, platelet membrane, and autoprothrombin C (factor Xa) requirements☆

Abstract Thrombin formation was studied with the use of purified prothrombin, prothrombin complex, prethrombin, Ac-globulin, platelet factor 3, autoprothrombin C, autoprothrombin III (Factor X), and thrombin, With Auto-C alone, there was only a fractional yield of the potential thrombin from purified prothrombin complex or purified prothrombin. This low yield of thrombin was partly due to the simultaneous formation of prethrombin and autoprothrombin II-A, which is a competetitive inhibitor of Auto-C. Echis carinatus venom converted prothrombin completely to thrombin. In a standard reaction mixture consisting of prothrombin, Auto-C, Ac-G, calcium ions and crude “cephalin”, thrombin formation was rapid and complete. By progressively reducing the concentration of any of the five components, there was a corresponding reduction in yield and rate of thrombin formation. From the thrombin yield, the concentration of the limited reactant was determinable. The basic molecular biology, which applies to several clinical conditions, is outlined. With purified prothrombin as a substrate, Auto-C functioned most effectively in thrombin production in the presence of calcium ions, Ac-G, and lipids. The Km' was 9.50 × 10−6 M prothrombin. The maximum rate of conversion of prothrombin to thrombin by Auto-C was an order of magnitude 120 times greater than that for prethrombin. Ac-G was regarded as a determiner protein becaue it modified the specificity of Auto-C. The lipid requirement was fulfilled equally well by platelet factor 3, cephalin, thromboplastin, and platelet membranes. One of the three basic reactions of blood coagulation may thus be related to the function of membranes. In a mixture consisting of prothrombin, Auto-III, thromboplastin, Ac-G and calcium ions, all of the prothrombin was converted to thrombin. No Factor VII was required.
The dimer radical anion of acetonitrile

Abstract The dimer radical anion of acetonitrile has been identified in the upper crystalline phase of acetonitrile after γ irradiation at 77°K, whereas the monomer radical anion is produced in the lower crystalline phase under the same irradiation conditions. ESR studies on these species in aligned and polycrystalline samples are summarized and possible structures for the dimer radical anion are discussed. Dimer radical anions of other organic cyanides have also been observed in γ-irradiated crystals.
Double Vision: Second Empire Theatre in Stereographs

Of cherry-wood or pressed tin, lined with red plush or gutta-percha, hand-held or mounted in a self-standing case, the stereoscope was, by the mid-1850s, ubiquitous in the Victorian parlor, where the viewing device and its attendant cards provided an inoffensive and instructive amusement. ‘The stereoscope is now seen in every drawing-room’, reported the Art Journal of 1856, ‘philosophers talk learnedly upon it; ladies are delighted with its magic representations; and children play with it.’
Accumulation of contaminants in fish from wastewater treatment wetlands.

Increasing demands on water resources in arid environments make reclamation and reuse of municipal wastewater an important component of the water budget. Treatment wetlands can be an integral part of the water-reuse cycle providing both water-quality enhancement and habitat functions. When used for habitat, the bioaccumulation potential of contaminants in the wastewater is a critical consideration. Water and fish samples collected from the Tres Rios Demonstration Constructed Wetlands near Phoenix, Arizona, which uses secondary-treated wastewater to maintain an aquatic ecosystem in a desert environment, were analyzed for hydrophobic organic compounds (HOC) and trace elements. Semipermeable membrane devices (SPMD) were deployed to investigate uptake of HOC. The wetlands effectively removed HOC, and concentrations of herbicides, pesticides, and organic wastewater contaminants decreased 40−99% between inlet and outlet. Analysis of Tilapia mossambica and Gambusia affinis indicated accumulation of HOC, includin...
Effect of psychological capital and resistance to change on organisational citizenship behaviour

Orientation: Research in positive organisational behaviour shows that positive psychological capital (PsyCap) is a construct that enables self-efficacy, optimism, hope and resilience to succeed in the workplace and that employee resistance to change is a key barrier to organisational change. Research purpose: This study examined the possible role of resistance to change as a moderator of the predictive relationship between PsyCap and organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB), in which OCB served as an index for measuring positive organisational change. Motivation for the study: Little empirical research has investigated the application of positive organisational behaviour to government organisations undergoing organisational change. Organisations can use the study results to increase positive outcomes and reduce resistance in government organisations experiencing a holistic change intervention. Research design, approach and method: The data comprised a cross-sectional survey of 97 employees from a government organisation that provides life-cycle career management support. Employees completed the 24-item psychological capital questionnaire, the 16-item organisational citizenship behaviour scale and the 17-item resistance to change scale. Data analyses used a mixed methods approach to merge quantitative inferential statistics with qualitative thematic analysis. Main findings: The quantitative analysis yielded high levels of resistance to change that moderated the positive effect of PsyCap on organisational citizenship behaviour. The thematic analysis revealed that affective, behavioural and cognitive forms of resistance to change were prevalent. Practical/managerial implications: Organisational leaders should seek to reduce resistance and increase the resources that organisations need to effect positive organisational change. Contribution/value-add: This study adds to the growing body of knowledge about positive organisational behaviour in government organisations.
Analysis of usage patterns in experiential multiple perspective web search

With the rapid growth in the volume, complexity, and heterogeneity of information in the World Wide Web (WWW), the role of user-data interaction paradigms is becoming increasingly critical to the success of web-based information retrieval and assimilation. Currently, the paucity of mature paradigms in this problem area contrasts sharply with the advances in design of search techniques that allow indexing large volumes of information and efficiently executing keyword-based search. State of the art research in mediating user-data interactions over large information repositories such as the WWW has seen the proposition of techniques such as page categorization, page summarization, content-based page clustering, as well as algorithms for recognizing semantic correlations between web-pages having heterogeneous content and supporting experiential and unified interactions across them. In this context, a key challenge involves studying and analyzing user behaviors and usage patterns in such information interaction frameworks. In this paper, we present a study that investigates this issue by analyzing both quantitatively and qualitatively how users interact, query, explore, and assimilate information in such an environment. We also investigate how efficacious such interaction paradigms are as compared to the standard approach of presenting results by ordering them in terms of page rank. Results from our investigation provide important insights into user behavior in heterogeneous information organization and interaction frameworks and will be valuable in further development of information presentation, querying, and interaction techniques.
Weight goals in a college-age population.

ANDERSON, DREW A., JENNIFER D. LUNDGREN, JENNIFER R. SHAPIRO, AND CAROLINE A. PAULOSKY. Weight goals in a college-age population. Obes Res. 2003;11:274 –278. Objective: Although a growing body of literature has found unrealistic weight loss goals to be common among older, primarily female, subjects, little is known about weight loss goals of younger adults. Research Methods and Procedures: Three hundred seventy-nine college students had their height and weight taken and reported their “goal,” “dream,” “happy,” “acceptable,” and “disappointed” weights. A series of 2 (gender) 2 (nonoverweight vs. overweight) ANOVAs were conducted with both absolute weight goals and percentage of weight loss needed to obtain those goals as dependent variables. Results: When examined in terms of absolute weight goals, women generally had lower body mass index (BMI) goals than men, and nonoverweight participants had lower BMI goals than overweight participants. Surprisingly, most overweight participants would accept a weight loss that would still place them in the overweight BMI range. When examined in terms of percentage loss needed to reach those goals, only overweight women chose goal and dream weights that would require a loss greater than can be expected from nonsurgical weight-loss treatments, and all overweight participants chose happy and acceptable weights within 15% of current weight. Discussion: Participants in this study had generally reasonable weight-loss goals, and even the most extreme weight loss goals were much more moderate than those found in previous studies. These results are surprising given the extreme social pressures for thinness facing young adults. Future studies should examine the variables that influence selection of goal weights and how goal weights affect actual dieting behavior.
Benchmark analysis on diabetics at high risk for lower extremity amputation.

After the 1990 establishment of a multidisciplinary foot salvage clinic, 1346 diabetic patients, at high risk for the development of foot ulcers and eventual lower limb amputation, were followed for 4 years. Of the 224 high-risk patients admitted to the hospital, 74 amputations (5.5%) of all or part of a lower limb were performed. Patients undergoing amputation were younger, more severely ill, and required more frequent hospitalizations because of greater organ system involvement. They were also more likely to be institutionalized after discharge. Overall, patients with long-standing adult-onset diabetes, identified as at high risk for foot ulcer development, have a substantially increased risk for lower limb amputation, multiple organ system failure, hospitalization, and institutionalization than do diabetic patients as a whole. Clinical benchmarking facilitates the identification and reduction of unnecessary variations in patient care practices. Here, a formal benchmark analysis provides the current out...
Relationships between sensory profile parameters and fundamental mechanical parameters for raw potatoes, melons and apples.

Ratings by a trained texture profile panel were compared with the mechanical properties (shear stress at structural failure, normal strain to failure and apparent elastic modulus) determined in torsion and uniaxial compression for apple, melon and Irish potato flesh. Results indicated that, for melon and potato flesh, the structural failure stress levels were more frequent and significant indicators of sensory note magnitudes than the modulus values. The reverse was true for apple flesh. Of the sensory notes, moisture release correlated most consistently with the mechanical properties. Melon flesh failed in uniaxial compression by widespread crushing rather than along a failure plane. Correlation of the mechanical failure stress with the first bite sensory notes dominated in this case. The structural failure of potato flesh in uniaxial compression generally occurred along a single plane of maximum shear stress which left two essentially intact pieces of specimen. First bite and mastication sensory notes for potato flesh correlated with shear stress at failure about equally well. The structural failure of apple tissue in uniaxial compression was caused by general compression failure with many fragmented pieces of tissue remaining. Apple flesh produced the most frequent correlations of both first bite and mastication texture notes with the instrumental modulus and failure values.
A dual chromatin organization in the sperm of the bivalve mollusc Spisula solidissima

Most of the DNA in the sperm of the bivalve mollusc, Spisula solidissima, is found to be associated with a specific high-molecular-mass, protamine-like component, sharing features common both to protamines and to histones. We have found that this component coexists, in the mature sperm nucleus, with a complete set of histones, including an H1-like histone. Such histones account for approximately 20% of the whole protein content in the sperm chromatin, the overall protein/DNA ratio (w/w) being 0.87. These data, together with micrococcal nuclease digestions in combination with salt fractionation, have allowed us to propose a structural model for this chromatin in which short nucleosomal domains are interspersed in a highly saturated protamine-DNA complex.
Cyclic AMP (cAMP) effects on chorionic gonadotropin gene transcription and mRNA stability: labile proteins mediate basal expression whereas stable proteins mediate cAMP stimulation.

Cyclic AMP stimulates a marked accumulation of CGα and CGβ mRNAs that reflects, in part, increased rates of gene transcription. We find that a major component of cAMP stimulation of α and CGβ mRNAs is independent of new protein synthesis. After treatment of JEG-3 choriocarcinoma cells with cycloheximide, basal levels of a and CGβ mRNAs decreased over 12 h to 27% and 13% of control values, respectively. However, cycloheximide treatment did not affect the degree of cAMP-stimulation of α and CGβ mRNA levels which increased 20- and 26-fold, respectively. Similarly, cycloheximide did not block cAMP-stimulated transcription of the α and CGβ genes. The effect of cAMP treatment on α and CGβ mRNA stability was assessed by decay after removal of cAMP, pulse-chase analyses, and decay after inhibition of RNA synthesis by actinomycin D. The half-lives of α and CGβ mRNAs determined by decay rates after removal of cAMP were 6.0 h and 7.2 h, respectively. Consistent with these measurements of mRNA stability, α and CGβ mR...
Ground- and excited-state reactivity of iron porphyrinogens.

The iron(II) porphyrinogen dication, [LΔΔFeII]2+, is a multielectron oxidant featuring the metal center in its reduced state and the ligand as the redox reservoir. Oxidations break the ligand's redox-active C−C bonds. Extremely short-lived excited states are consistent with extensive structural reorganization that accompanies charge-transfer excitation of the porphyrinogen.
Steven P. Jobs (1955–2011)

Last month, the world lost a technological leader, widely hailed for forging a new age of personal computers and digital products, forever changing the economic and social landscape of our time. A master of new media and new technology, the career of Apple cofounder and computer visionary Steve Jobs was closely followed around the world. Eventually, after several years of serious illness in the public eye, mortality called. His death occasioned an overflow of public grief and deep sadness tinged with sincere affection. Clearly, an era has passed.
Spectral element-FCT method for the one- and two-dimensional compressible Euler equations

Abstract A hybrid spectral element-FCT method is proposed for the solution of the Euler equations of gas dynamics in one and two space dimensions. It is based on a new conservative formulation starting from standard spectral method expansions and incorporating ideas of modern finite volume schemes. A staggered mesh is employed in the discretization, consisting of Gauss—Chebyshev and Gauss—Lobatto—Chebyshev collocation points for the calculation of averaged quantities and fluxes, respectively. Use of limiting is based on the flux-corrected transport algorithm. The outcome is a geometrically flexible scheme with optimal phase properties. Both one- and two-dimensional results are presented, in which the Gibbs phenomenon is absent while all transition zones are exceptionally sharp.
Three Approaches to Evaluation Research.

To reduce the complexity of the research process to manageable levels, evaluators have adopted conceptual models that define the means to be employed and the ends to be served in evaluation researc...
Magnetic domains around annealed shear bands and embrittlement of FeBSi metallic glass

Magnetic domains in the vicinity of shear bands produced by bending were investigated to study the effect of furnace annealing on the domain structures. Domain wall spacings were measured as a function of annealing time at several temperatures. The same specimens were also used to evaluate the degree of embrittlement by measuring the bending fracture strains.
Aging and dietary influences on plasma lipoproteins and apolipoproteins in nonhuman primates

Nineteen young (3 to 4-years-old), 25 adult (8 to 14-years-old), and 22 aged (18 years and older) pig-tailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) were fed a semipurified control diet stringent in fat, cholesterol, refined sugar, and sodium for six months. Each group was almost equally divided by sex. Thereafter, half of each age group was fed a test diet high in fat (41% of calories), cholesterol (865 mg/kg), sodium, and refined sugar, while the rest consumed the control diet. After three years of dietary treatment, plasma and blood volumes were determined and fasting blood samples were collected for lipoprotein analysis. The protein content of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) was increased in the test animals as compared to the controls. In general, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, protein, and apolipoprotein B-100 values were markedly elevated by the test diet. However, these elevations were mainly confined to the young and adult groups, with little or no increases observed in the old group. The test diet also induced small but significant increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, protein, and apolipoprotein A-I values. In addition, HDL cholesterol and protein values were higher in young females than males, whereas this trend was not observed in adults.
Derivitization of Pristine Graphene with Well-Defined Chemical Functionalities

Covalent functionalization of pristine graphene poses considerable challenges due to the lack of reactive functional groups. Herein, we report a simple and general method to covalently functionalize pristine graphene with well-defined chemical functionalities. It is a solution-based process where solvent-exfoliated graphene was treated with perfluorophenylazide (PFPA) by photochemical or thermal activation. Graphene with well-defined functionalities was synthesized, and the resulting materials were soluble in organic solvents or water depending on the nature of the functional group on PFPA.
Application of multigrid approach to the subsurface imaging problem

In this paper, the multigrid technique was considered for the solution of two dimensional Helmholtz equation with radiation boundary conditions. To achieve h-independent convergence of the iterative method, the original Helmholtz equation was transformed by using so-called “regularizing” plane wave. The recently developed “black-box” type multigrid method was adopted as a solver. This multigrid approach uses matrix dependent prolongation operator. The convergence of proposed algorithm was investigated on several test problems. Numerical results for realistic ranges of parameters in soil and mine-like targets are presented.
The contribution of institutions, trade, and geography to the development process: How robust is the empirical evidence to variations in the sample?

This paper uses an influence spectrum to identify influential subsets in a stylized cross-country data set and finds that institutions, geography, and trade (policy), all appear to play a significant role in the development process for a relatively large sub-sample of countries. For example, equatorial distance, a proxy for geography, becomes positive and significant (originally negative and insignificant) after removing only eight countries or observations from the original sample of sixty-three, while controlling for institutions and trade. In fact, for this set of fifty-five countries all three variables have the correct sign and are statistically significant. As another example, the trade variable becomes positive and significant (originally insignificant) after removing only two countries from the original sample.
Specific glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibition reduces neuroendocrine markers and suppresses neuroblastoma cell growth

Objective: Neuroblastoma is a common neuroendocrine (NE) tumor that presents in early childhood, with a high incidence of malignancy and recurrence. The glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) pathway is a potential therapeutic target, as this pathway has been shown to be crucial in the management of other NE tumors. However, it is not known which isoform is necessary for growth inhibition. In this study, we investigated the effect of the GSK-3 inhibitor AR-A014418 on the different GSK-3 isoforms in neuroblastoma. Methods: NGP and SH-5Y-SY cells were treated with 0–20 μM of AR-A014418 and cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Expression levels of NE markers CgA and ASCL1, GSK-3 isoforms, and apoptotic markers were analyzed by western blot. Results: Neuroblastoma cells treated with AR-A014418 had a significant reduction in growth at all doses and time points (P < 0.001). A reduction in growth was noted in cell lines on day 6, with 10 μM (NGP-53% vs. 0% and SH-5Y-SY-38% vs. 0%, P < 0.001) treatment com...
Incorporating educational software into large introductory psychology lectures and labs

Psychabilities, a set of 13 computer activities for the introductory psychology course, is introduced. The emphasis of this paper is on using this software, and others of its kind, to coordinate the learning environments of the classroom and the laboratory. The classroom mode in Psychabilities is specifically designed to stimulate discussion during class time while supporting existing lecture-format material. The laboratory mode covers the same content but presents relatively more introductory material to the main learning activity than does the classroom mode. Each module in both modes contains a set of key terms, the main activity, and a set of questions for review. Using educational software more pervasively, that is, in lab as well as in lecture, provides “dual coding” of course content and makes more efficient use of simulations and tutorials that are based on the overall educational needs of introductory psychology students.
Leptocorticium (Corticiaceae s.l., Basidiomycota): New species and combinations

The genus Leptocorticium is redescribed, and a key to the species is provided. A new taxon, Leptocorticium tenellum, is described, and two new combinations, L. sasae and L. utribasidiatum, are proposed. Dentocorticium nephrolepidis is determined to be conspecific with L. cyatheae. All four species are described and illustrated.
On-line detection for capillary and packed-column supercritical fluid chromatography by direct-deposition SFC-FTIR

Compounds separated by supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) can be identified by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR) after direct deposition (DD) onto an infrared transparent substrate. This methodology has been demonstrated as an off-line technique by several groups'3. A logical extension to this technique is to collect the spectra of the eluting species on-line. This is demonstrated using a commercial DD GC/FT-IR interface4 with minor modifications. The transfer line is replaced with an integral restrictor which acts as both pressure restrictor and transfer line. The tip of the restrictor is held about 75 mfrom a cooled zinc selenide window. Since carbon dioxide expands to a gaseous state upon decompression, it can be pulled away by a moderate vacuum, and the eluting species are trapped as small spots (about 100 jm diameter) on the cooled window. During a chromatographic run the window is translated such that shortly after deposition the spots pass through the focused beam of an infrared spectrometer. The radiation is collected by a Schwartzchild microscope objective and focused at an adjustable aperture by a field lens. The size of this aperture determines the effective size of the beam at the zinc selenide window. The fraction of the beam transmitted by the aperture is refocused onto the element of an MCT detector by a second Schwartzchild objective. Since the two objectives are identical, maximum sensitivity is achieved with a detector element the size of the trapped siots (100 j.m).
Second order accuracy in phase field modeling of normal grain growth

The first and second order accuracy of phase field modeling of normal grain growth is investigated using asymptotic analysis. It is found that the model can achieve first order accuracy but fails to gain second order accuracy. The deviation in second order accuracy is proportional to the inverse of interface thickness so that phase field simulation approaches the sharp interface prediction as interface thickness increases. This result is confirmed by comparison of phase field simulation and analytical solutions, and it well explains the effect of interface thickness on phase field simulation of grain growth observed in previous work.