cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long-term Outcome of Autologous Transplantation of Peripheral Blood Progenitor Cells as Postremission Management of Patients ≥60 Years with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Abstract The optimal postremission treatment for elderly patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is presently unknown, but recent studies report the feasibility of autologous stem cell transplantation in this population. To better understand the long-term outcome of autologous transplantation in AML patients ≥60 years of age, we evaluated high-dose chemoradiotherapy preparative conditioning followed by transplantation of peripheral blood progenitor cells procured after a single cycle of cytarabine-based consolidation chemotherapy as postremission therapy in 27 patients aged 60 to 71 years (median age, 65 years) with newly diagnosed AML in first complete remission (CR). The median follow-up from CR for all patients was 13.6 months (range, 6.0-123.1 months). The median follow-up from remission for surviving patients was 81 months (range, 41.4-123.1 months). Seven patients are alive in continuous CR, 19 died from relapse, and 1 died as a result of treatment-related infection. Leukemia-free survival and overall survival are 10.3 and 13.4 months, respectively. Actuarial leukemia-free and overall survival at 3 years are 25% ± 9% and 28% ± 9%, respectively. Our results demonstrate that autologous transplantation of peripheral blood progenitor cells is well tolerated and feasible for patients ≥60 years of age with AML in first CR. Future investigation should focus on a randomized study evaluating a larger group of elderly patients in first CR comparing autologous stem cell transplantation with conventional cytarabine-based consolidation chemotherapy to identify the optimal postremission therapy.
Dermatomyositis Induced by Anti–Tumor Necrosis Factor in a Patient With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Importance Biologic therapies, including anti–tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents, are increasingly used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases. Paradoxically, these agents have been reported to induce some of the very diseases they were designed to treat, including dermatomyositis (DM). We describe the first case of anti-TNF–associated DM without muscle involvement presenting in an adult patient with a history of arthritis since childhood. This cutaneous eruption recurred after rechallenge with an alternate anti-TNF agent. Observations A 46-year-old man with juvenile idiopathic arthritis developed a pruritic cutaneous eruption while receiving etanercept. Given concern about a drug-induced eruption, etanercept therapy was discontinued and the cutaneous findings improved. However, after rechallenge with adalimumab, he developed similar findings consistent with the skin manifestations of DM. After discontinuation of all anti-TNF drug therapy and the addition of methotrexate sodium, his eruption improved. Conclusions and Relevance Because the use of these agents is increasing, practitioners should be aware of the possibility of anti-TNF–induced autoimmune disorders, including DM. The case described herein is unique in that anti-TNF–induced autoimmune disease occurred in a patient with existing arthritis since childhood and recurred with rechallenge, adding further evidence to support the existence of anti-TNF–induced DM.
Rate of adsorption of methanol at a polycrystalline platinum electrode in acid solution

Abstract Methanol continues to be the most likely practical fuel for fuel cells operating at low internal temperatures. Enhanced knowledge of the electrochemistry of the anodic oxidation of methanol at platinum electrodes could assist in the attempts to improve the platinum-based electrocatalysts that are commonly employed in that technology. There have been numerous studies of the overall kinetics of the methanol anode including identification of dissolved products and adsorbed species but little has been reported on the quantitative rate of the adsorption process. In the lower range of potentials, where no oxidative products are released to the electrolyte, the adsorption is initiated by an electrochemical dehydrogenation and follows Elovich kinetics over most of the range of fractional surface coverage with methanolic species. Specifically adsorbed anions affect both the rate of methanol adsorption and its oxidation to desorbed products.
Localization in rat brain of binding sites for parkinsonian toxin MPTP: similarities with [3H]parygyline binding to monoamine oxidase

Abstract A high-affinity binding site exists in rat brain for the parkinsonian toxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). The pharmacological specificity of this binding site suggests that it may coprrespond to monoamine oxidase (MAO). We have used quantitative autoradiography to map in detail the anatomical distribution of the [3H]MPTP binding site in rat brain and compared it with the anatomical distribution of MAO as determined by in vitro autoradiography with [3H]paragyline. Under the conditions of the assay, [3H]pargyline labeled the type B form of MAO. There were strong similarities in the anatomical distribution of [3H]MPTP and [3H]pargyline, with high levels of both binding sites occuring in the arcuate nucleus, the locus coeruleus, the dorsal raphe nucleus and all circumventricular organs. Low levels of both binding sites were found in the substantia nigra and the caudate-putamen. These results provide additional evidence that the high-affinity binding site for MPTP is MAO. The parkinsonian actions of MPTP might result from metabolites produced by MAO.
Hydride Dynamics in Triosmium and Triruthenium Carbonyl Clusters: Synthesis, Reactivity and Dynamics of a Trihydrido Quinoline-4-Carboxaldehyde Triosmium Cluster

An overview of the dynamical processes involving the hydrido ligand in triosmium and triruthenium carbonyl clusters is presented. The relationship between the mechanisms of hydride motions and the other ligands in the cluster are discussed for mono- di- and trihydrido-clusters. In addition, the reactivity of the electron deficient 46e− cluster, (μ-H)(μ3-η2-C9H5N-4-CHO)Os3(CO)9 (1) with hydrogen is reported. The reaction gives two isomeric trihydrido clusters, H(μ-H)2(μ3-η2-C9H5N-4-CHO)Os3(CO)8 (2) and (μ-H)3(μ3-η2-C9H5N-4-CHO)Os3(CO)8 (2′) in low yield along with trace amounts of other hydrido clusters. Reaction of the inseparable mixture of 2 and 2′ with triphenylphosphine at ambient temperatures gives two related addition products H(μ-H)2(μ-η2-C9H5N-4-CHO)Os3(CO)8PPh3 (3) and (μ-H)3(μ-η2-C9H5N-4-CHO)Os3(CO)8PPh3 (3′) in a 5:1 ratio. These results contrast with the previously reported trihydrido-derivatives of triosmium μ3-η2-imidoyl clusters where only analogues of 2 and 3 are obtained. Clusters 2 and 2′ are rigid on the NMR time scale while 3 exhibits dynamical behavior in the temperature range of −50 to +25 °C. Cluster 3′ is stereochemically rigid in this temperature range. The dynamical behavior of 3 involves the exchange of the terminal and bridging hydrides coupled with tripodal motion of the phosphine substituted osmium atom, a process virtually identical to previously reported trihydrides of the μ3-η2-imidoyl triosmium clusters.
Using Student Norms to Create Positive Learning Environments.

Ever since brash young students goaded one another to race chariots through the streets of the ancient world, elders have tried to understand and harness the energy of late adolescent normative group behavior. John Braxton and Timothy Caboni introduce a perspective and survey instrument that may help today's educators do just that.
Joint Channel and Mismatch Correction for OFDM Reception with Time-interleaved ADCs: Towards Mostly Digital MultiGigabit Transceiver Architectures

Time-interleaved (TI) analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) are a promising architecture for realizing the highspeed ADCs required to implement "mostly digital" receivers for emerging multiGigabit communication systems. Mismatch between the parallel ADCs comprising a TI-ADC is a fundamental performance bottleneck. While there exist mismatch correction techniques for generic applications of ADC, we illustrate in this paper that mismatch compensation can be subsumed within the overall receiver design for communication applications. We consider an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) link with TI-ADC used after downconversion. We show that mismatch results in frequency selective interference across subcarriers that can significantly degrade the performance of a standard OFDM receiver. However, this performance degradation can be alleviated significantly by joint channel and mismatch estimation and compensation, leveraging already available training or pilot sequences. This eliminates the necessity for dedicated hardware for mismatch correction. Specifically, we present an algorithm for estimating the channel gains and the mismatch, followed by low-complexity linear equalization to suppress the inter-subcarrier interference resulting from the mismatch. Our simulations show that the error floor due to mismatch-generated interference can be eliminated, permitting bandwidth-efficient operation with large constellations.
Transfixion of the aortic valve with a surgical foreign body.

Abstract 1. 1. An unusual complication of cardiac valve surgery is reported. 2. 2. An intracardiac foreign body resulting from a broken aortic valvulotome is a surgical rarity. The sequelae and operative removal of the surgical foreign body (guide wire) which had lodged in a transvalve position are described. The possible mechanism of heart block from septal damage or the development of cardiac failure from induced aortic insufficiency is discussed.
Compression artifact reduction with adaptive bilateral filtering

In this paper, we present a spatially adaptive method to reduce compression artifacts observed in block discrete cosine transform (DCT) based image/video compression standards. The method is based on the bilateral filter, which is very effective in denoising images without smoothing edges. When applied to reduce compression artifacts, the parameters of the bilateral filter should be chosen carefully to have a good performance. To avoid over-smoothing texture regions and to effectively eliminate blocking and ringing artifacts, in this paper, texture regions and block boundary discontinuities are first detected; these are then used to control/adapt the spatial and intensity parameters of the bilateral filter. Experiments show that the proposed method improves over the standard non-adaptive bilateral filter visually and quantitatively.
ALTERNATIVES TO SPINAL FUSION

Techniques have changed significantly with the advent of less invasive surgical techniques for disc excision and spinal fusion; these include the development of rigid internal fixation devices using multiple points of fixation and the better knowledge of the biology of spinal fusion. Despite these improvements in technology, room exists for alternative forms of surgical treatment because of significant failures particularly related to spinal fusions.
Modeling Teamwork in Supervisory Control of Multiple Robots

Simultaneously controlling multiple robots requires multiple operators working together as a team. Determining how to construct the team to promote performance and reduce workload are critical questions that must be answered in these settings. To this end, we investigated the effect of team structure and scheduling notification on operators' performance, subjective workload, work processes, and communication using a human-in-the-loop experiment. In an urban search and rescue setting, we compared a pooled condition, in which team members shared control of 24 robots, with a sector condition, in which each team member controlled half of all the robots. For scheduling notification, an alert was given when the operator spent too much time on one robot and either suggested or forced the operator to change to another robot. A discrete-event simulation model was constructed to model the teamwork in supervisory control of multiple robots. The model was significantly improved by the inclusion of a behavior termed as “backup.” Backup behavior is a critical coordination mechanism often observed in teams, but rarely explicitly modeled. Pooled teams showed an advantage when performing backup behaviors in both the experiment and the model. However, other factors must be considered when making a decision on what team structure to use.
Educational productivity and differential socialization

Abstract This monograph summarizes parallel studies conducted in five countries: the Republic of China, Japan, Greece, Thailand, and the United States. The main focus of the five studies was to determine the causal linkages among socio-economic status (SES) variables, family processes, and school variables on mathematics achievement. This chapter contains information about the two theoretical frameworks used for these studies.
The roadside high: Jimson weed toxicity.

A 19-year-old man was brought to a local emergency department by the police with EMS providing care. While en route to the hospital, police urged hospital staff to be prepared for a combative patient with a possible overdose; he was reported to have erratic behavior at a concert. Once in the emergency department, he was placed on a stretcher for evaluation, with police and hospital security at the bedside. He was looking into the corner of the room and obviously panicked by what he saw. He became combative and tried to run out of the room, yelling, “Get him away from me. It wants to take me!” The patient's face was flushed, and he was drenched with sweat. He was having visual hallucinations that terrified him. After he was placed back on the litter and leather restraints were applied, he started yelling, “Look at me! I'm dead! Hold on to me so I don't float away.” The patient's baseline vital signs were obtained, and an IV line was quickly established. He was given benzodiazepines to facilitate mild sedation and relaxation. His skin was hot to touch. He was hypertensive, and his ECG showed a heart rate of 160 beats per minute. Friends who had accompanied him to the concert denied the use of drugs or alcohol. However, a small plastic bag was found inside the patient's pants pocket; the contents resembled tomato seeds. After a full examination, the diagnosis of anticholinergic toxicity/Jimson weed poisoning was made. Arrangements were made for the patient to be transferred by helicopter to a tertiary care center with toxicology services.
SCWO System Designs for Waste Treatment: Application to Chemical Weapons Destruction

Supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) is a rapidly maturing technology for organic waste destruction, as witnessed by the increased number of full-scale plants being constructed around the world for many diverse feeds. The U.S. Army is one organization that has committed to installing SCWO as part of its overall demilitarization process for chemical weapons stored at the Blue Grass Chemical Activity in Richmond, KY. This choice of technology was based on extensive testing conducted by the Army on two different reactor designs: solid wall and transpiring wall reactors. This paper presents data and results from this test program conducted for both SCWO reactor system designs.
Exchange of 18O in the reaction of peroxynitrite with CO2

Abstract We have observed an exchange of 18 O in the reactions of CO 2 with peroxynitrite using membrane-inlet mass spectrometry and HPLC negative electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The exchange appeared on addition of peroxynitrite to a solution containing 18 O-labeled CO 2 in equilibrium with bicarbonate. It was observed as a temporarily enhanced rate of depletion of 18 O from CO 2 , a rate that was greater than the rate of 18 O depletion caused by the hydration/dehydration cycle of CO 2 . In addition, we detected the appearance of mass peaks attributed to 18 O in product NO 3 – .As a further measure of the 18 O exchange, there was a redistribution of 18 O such that the ratio of doubly to singly labeled CO 2 could not be described by the binomial expansion. This is not due to the hydration/dehydration cycle of CO 2 but most likely to recycling of CO 2 in the reaction with peroxynitrite. This 18 O exchange associated with the reactions of CO 2 and peroxynitrite may open a new methodology for studying this significant process.
Lattice transformation in the superconductivity ZrV2 by neutron diffraction

Abstract The 120 K phase transition in ZrV2 has been investigated for magnetic and crystallographic effects using neutron diffraction. A cubic-rhombohedral martensitic transformation was observed at 116.7 K. No local magnetic moments, either ordered or disordered, were found to exist between 5.4 K and 300 K.
Phase transfer catalyzed single electron transfer-degenerative chain transfer mediated living radical polymerization (PTC-SET-DTLRP) of vinyl chloride catalyzed by sodium dithionite and initiated with iodoform in water at 43 °C

To accelerate the living radical polymerization (LRP) of vinyl chloride (VC) in water the phase transfer catalyzed single electron transfer- degenerative chain transfer mediated living radical polymerization (SET-DTLRP) of VC mediated by sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4) was investigated. The fastest polymerization reaction that still produces ther- mally stable poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) takes place at 43 °C with the ratio (PTC)0/ (Na2S2O4)0 0.0075/1. Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (nC16H33(CH3)3N Br, CetMe3NBr) was the phase-transfer catalyst (PTC) of choice. Under these conditions the first, fast stage of SET-DTLRP of VC was accomplished within 7- 8 h when the initial ratio monomer/initiator (VC)0/(CHI3)0 was 800. The number-average molecular weight (Mn )o f the resulting PVC was in good agreement with the theoretical molecular weight (Mth). When the (VC)0/(CHI3)0 ratio was 4800, the fast step of the reaction was accomplished within 17 h, to produce 72% monomer conversion. A deviation of the Mn from the Mth was observed in this case. Possible mechanistic explanations for this deviation as well as for the phase transfer catalyzed SET-DTLRP of VC were suggested. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 779 -788, 2005
Contingent valuation and pharmacists' acceptable levels of compensation for medication therapy management services.

Abstract Background Pharmacists’ acceptable level of compensation for medication therapy management (MTM) services needs to be determined using various economic evaluation techniques. Objectives Using contingent valuation method, determine pharmacists’ acceptable levels of compensation for MTM services. Methods A mailing survey was used to elicit Tennessee (U.S.) pharmacists’ acceptable levels of compensation for a 30-minute MTM session for a new patient with 2 medical conditions, 8 medications, and an annual drug cost of $2000. Three versions of a series of double-bounded, closed-ended, binary discrete choice questions were asked of pharmacists for their willingness to accept (WTA) for an original monetary value ($30, $60, or $90) and then follow-up higher or lower value depending on their responses to the original value. A Kaplan-Meier approach was taken to analyze pharmacists’ WTA, and Cox’s proportional hazards model was used to examine the effects of pharmacist characteristics on their WTA. Results Three hundred and forty-eight pharmacists responded to the survey. Pharmacists’ WTA for the given MTM session had a mean of $63.31 and median of $60. The proportions of pharmacists willing to accept $30, $60, and $90 for the given MTM session were 30.61%, 85.19%, and 91.01%, respectively. Pharmacists’ characteristics had statistically significant association with their WTA rates. Conclusions Pharmacists’ WTA for the given MTM session is higher than current Medicare MTM programs’ compensation levels of $15-$50 and patients’ willingness to pay of less than $40. Besides advocating for higher MTM compensation levels by third-party payers, pharmacists also may need to charge patients to reach sufficient compensation levels for MTM services.
Fluorescence Lifetime Spectroscopy and Imaging in Neurosurgery

Clinical outcome of patients diagnosed with primary brain tumor has been correlated with the extent of surgical resection. In treating this disease, the neurosurgeon must balance between an aggressive, radical resection and minimizing the loss of healthy, functionally significant brain tissue. Numerous intraoperative methodologies and technological approaches have been explored as a means to improve the accuracy of surgical resection. This paper presents an overview of current conventional techniques and new emerging technologies with potential to impact the area of image-guided surgery of brain tumors. Emphasis is placed on techniques based on endogenous fluorescence lifetime contrast and their potential for intraoperative diagnosis of brain tumors.
Affect and the processing of personal information: Evidence for mood-activated self-schemata☆

Abstract The present research tested whether mood states influence the schematic processing of self-referent material. It was hypothesized that mood states activate mood-congruent self-schemata that facilitate the encoding and processing of mood-compatible personal information. To test the hypothesis, positive and negative mood states were experimentally induced in naturally nondepressed persons prior to the encoding phase of a depth-of-processing task and immediately before an incidental recall test was administered. In support of the mood-activation hypothesis, persons receiving the sad mood induction at encoding subsequently recalled more negatively valenced self-referent traits than did those receiving the happy mood induction. However, recall for positive traits did not differ between the two mood groups. Supplemental analyses suggested that the emotional states engendered by the mood manipulations played a direct role in the schematic processing of self-referent material. The relevance of the findings to current theories of the self, memory, and depression are considered.
Tool for evaluating research implementation challenges: A sense-making protocol for addressing implementation challenges in complex research settings

Many challenges arise in complex organizational interventions that threaten research integrity. This article describes a T ool for E valuating Research Implementation Ch allenges (TECH), developed using a complexity science framework to assist research teams in assessing and managing these challenges. During the implementation of a multi-site, randomized controlled trial (RCT) of organizational interventions to reduce resident falls in eight nursing homes, we inductively developed, and later codified the TECH. The TECH was developed through processes that emerged from interactions among research team members and nursing home staff participants, including a purposive use of complexity science principles. The TECH provided a structure to assess challenges systematically, consider their potential impact on intervention feasibility and fidelity, and determine actions to take. We codified the process into an algorithm that can be adopted or adapted for other research projects. We present selected examples of the use of the TECH that are relevant to many complex interventions. Complexity theory provides a useful lens through which research procedures can be developed to address implementation challenges that emerge from complex organizations and research designs. Sense-making is a group process in which diverse members interpret challenges when available information is ambiguous; the groups’ interpretations provide cues for taking action. Sense-making facilitates the creation of safe environments for generating innovative solutions that balance research integrity and practical issues. The challenges encountered during implementation of complex interventions are often unpredictable; however, adoption of a systematic process will allow investigators to address them in a consistent yet flexible manner, protecting fidelity. Research integrity is also protected by allowing for appropriate adaptations to intervention protocols that preserve the feasibility of ‘real world’ interventions.
The Kidney and the Tropics

In this age of rapid globalization and travel, diseases that were previously prevalent in warmer countries within the tropics are increasingly found in other countries with more temperate climates. A sound knowledge of such “tropical” renal diseases is essential for the practicing general pediatrician or nephrologist. This chapter describes tropical renal diseases as broadly divided into “infectious” conditions such as malaria, rickettsial infections, and viral hemorrhagic fevers, among others, and “toxic” conditions including snakebite and use of indigenous medicines which result in renal injury. In general, severe and progressive renal damage is preventable with early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition and provision of supportive care.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus, defined as diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy that is not clearly overt diabetes, is becoming more common as the epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes continues. Newly proposed diagnostic criteria will, if adopted universally, further increase the prevalence of this condition. Much controversy surrounds the diagnosis and management of gestational diabetes. Content: This review provides information regarding various approaches to the diagnosis of gestational diabetes and the recommendations of a number of professional organizations. The implications of gestational diabetes for both the mother and the offspring are described. Approaches to self-monitoring of blood glucose concentrations and treatment with diet, oral medications, and insulin injections are covered. Management of glucose metabolism during labor and the postpartum period are discussed, and an approach to determining the timing of delivery and the mode of delivery is outlined. Summary: This review provides an overview of current controversies as well as current recommendations for gestational diabetes care.
Climate Economics: A Meta-Review and Some Suggestions for Future Research

AbstractWhat have we learned from the outpouring of literature as a result of the Stern Review of the Economics of Climate Change? A lot. We have explored the models and the possible parameter valu...
Association between duration of residence and access to ambulatory care among caribbean immigrant adolescents

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between duration of residence and access to ambulatory care among Caribbean immigrant adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of adolescents at a New York City high school was conducted. Multivariate modeling methods were used to adjust for demographic and socioeconomic covariates. RESULTS: Duration of residence was strongly and directly associated with access to ambulatory care after adjustment for ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS: Caribbean immigrant adolescents, particularly recent immigrants, have reduced access to ambulatory care.
Theoretical Analysis of the Mechanism for the Oxidative Carbonylation of Toluene to p-Toluic Acid by Rhodium Complexes

Density functional theory has been used to investigate the mechanism and kinetics of the liquid-phase, oxidative carbonylation of toluene to p-toluic acid (C 7 H 8 + CO + 1/2O 2 → p-C 7 H 6 COOH + H 2 O) catalyzed by Rh(III) cations. In toluene solution containing trifluoroacetic acid and dissolved CO, Rh(III) is coordinated to three trifluoroacetate (TFA) anions and two CO molecules as Rh(CO) 2 (TFA) 3 . The oxidative carbonylation of toluene is initiated by the addition of toluene across one of the Rh-O bonds of Rh(CO) 2 (TFA) 3 to form (C 7 H 7 )Rh-(CO) 2 (TFAH)(TFA) 2 . The latter species undergoes isomerization and CO migration to produce (C 7 H 7 CO)-Rh(CO)(TFAH)(TFA) 2 , which then coordinates another molecule of CO. The mixed anhydride of toluic and tirfluoroacetic acid, C 7 H 7 C(O)O(O)CCF 3 and Rh(CO) 3 (TFA), are produced by reductive elimination from (C7H7CO)Rh(CO)2(TFAH)(TFA)2. Para-toluic acid is then formed by hydrolysis of C 7 H 7 C(O)O(O)CCF 3 . The proposed reaction mechanism explains many of the observations reported in our previous experimental work (Zakzeski, J. J.; Bell, A. T. J. Mol. Catal. A 2007, 276, 8) and, in particular, the effect of temperature on the ratio of p- to m-toluic acid, the effects of H 2 O and the partial pressure of CO on the loss of catalyst activity, and the effect of Rh concentration on the formation of a catalytically inactive Rh dimer species.
Assessment of damaged DNA and cell structure in Giardia lamblia trophozoites

Control of protozoal pathogens in water and food destined for human use employs chemical and physical agents for inactivation of trophozoites and cysts. γ radiation, when given in certain doses, damages DNA as well as other cell components. Previously, we characterized damage in irradiated Giardia lamblia trophozoites by using Nomarski interference and scanning electron microscopy. To further examine cellular damage, irradiated trophozoites were viewed with transmission electron microscopy. Degranulation of cytoplasm at higher irradiation doses was observed, however, axonemes, adhesive discs, and peripheral vesicles appeared morphologically similar in treated as well as control cells. In order to determine damage to the DNA, the comet assay was employed. The comet assay is a single cell gel electrophoresis assay that measures the number of single and double strand breaks in DNA. This was achieved by embedment of live cells in low melting point agarose, lysis of cells, and then addition of an alkali solution to allow the DNA to unwind. After ample time for unwinding, the cells were electrophoresed, thus pulling the smaller broken strands away from the supercoiled DNA. We used Sybr GreenR, a DNA specific fluorescent dye, and a signal-enhancing camera to visualize the DNA. Lengths of comet tails (corresponding to number of strand breaks) were measured for quantification of damage.
Carotenoid Photostability in Raw Spinach and Carrots During Cold Storage

A reverse-phase gradient HPLC method was developed for separating xanthophylls, chlorophylls, carotenes and cis β-carotene isomers from raw spinach and carrots. The effect of dark and lighted cold storage on pigment stability was studied. Light promoted pigment losses in raw spinach. Degradative losses at 8 days ranged from 60% for violaxanthin to 22% for lutein. Dark, cold storage did not affect carotenoid levels except for all-trans β-carotene which showed an 18% loss at 8 days. In raw carrots, neither lighted nor dark cold storage affected major carotenoids. In spinach, the isomeric distribution of β-carotene showed strong linear correlations between trans and cis forms.
Automatically proving the correctness of compiler optimizations

We describe a technique for automatically proving compiler optimizations sound, meaning that their transformations are always semantics-preserving. We first present a domain-specific language, called Cobalt, for implementing optimizations as guarded rewrite rules. Cobalt optimizations operate over a C-like intermediate representation including unstructured control flow, pointers to local variables and dynamically allocated memory, and recursive procedures. Then we describe a technique for automatically proving the soundness of Cobalt optimizations. Our technique requires an automatic theorem prover to discharge a small set of simple, optimization-specific proof obligations for each optimization. We have written a variety of forward and backward intraprocedural dataflow optimizations in Cobalt, including constant propagation and folding, branch folding, full and partial redundancy elimination, full and partial dead assignment elimination, and simple forms of points-to analysis. We implemented our soundness-checking strategy using the Simplify automatic theorem prover, and we have used this implementation to automatically prove our optimizations correct. Our checker found many subtle bugs during the course of developing our optimizations. We also implemented an execution engine for Cobalt optimizations as part of the Whirlwind compiler infrastructure.
Feature grouping in moving objects

We address the problem of grouping points or features common to a single object. In this paper we consider the processing of a sequence of two-dimensional orthogonal projections of a three-dimensional scene containing an unknown number of independently-moving rigid objects. We describe a computationally inexpensive algorithm that can determine the number of bodies and which points belong to which body. >
Securing information transmission by redundancy

Many approaches have been used or proposed for providing security Ior inlormation dissemination over networks, including encryption, authentication, and digital signafures. These mechanisms do not, however, necessarily help ensure that a message is delivered at all. Attacks that try to destroy or intercept security messal~es require other mechanisms. Authenticated acknowledgements are sometimes useful for this purpose, but do not scale well. This paper discusses the use of redundancy to combat attempts to prevent intbrmation dissemination. Redundancy has been widely used in other areas, such as high availability data storage, file replication, and some faulttolerant systems. The se_curity problem has different characteristics that require different approaches to redundancy. We present one example of using redundancy to increase assurance of security updates delivery.
Time propagation of extreme two-electron wavefunctions

We develop a method for solving the time-dependent Schr¨ odinger equation for the situation where two electrons interact in extreme circumstances. In particular, the method allows accurate representation of the wavefunction when several 10s or 100s of angular momenta are needed and the spatial region covers several 100s to 1000s of atomic units. The method is based on a discrete variable representation for the cos(θ12) inside the 1/r12 operator. We also discuss a propagator for the radial part of the wavefunction which would allow efficient treatment of two continuum electrons as well as two Rydberg electrons. The method is tested on the case where two continuum electrons are successively launched from small r with zero angular momentum. The first electron has less energy so that the second electron must pass it. We show that the method is stable up to the highest angular momentum we tested: � max = 160. Although being a somewhat artificial case of post-collision interaction, this example has interesting features which we explore.
Protein detection in gels without fixation.

A number of alternative methods are described for detecting proteins in polyacrylamide gels that do not require fixation of the protein either prior to staining or in conjunction with staining. The primary advantage of avoiding fixation is that this makes it easier to remove proteins of interest from the gels for subsequent analysis. In general, the sensitivity of protein detection methods that avoid fixation is lower than for detection methods using fixation. For any given method, sensitivity is dependent on the volume of the protein band within the gel; hence, sensitivity is highest for sharp, narrow bands. Techniques described in this unit include protocols for protein detection in gels by SDS precipitation, preparation of contact blots, staining with imidazole-zinc, and use of the fluorescent labels IAEDANS and fluorescamine. Several additional methods, including the use of tryptophan fluorescence, guide strips, and minimal protein staining, are discussed in the Commentary. Keywords: protein detection; polyacrylamide gels; protein stains; SDS precipitation; contact blots; imidazole-zinc staining; fluorescent labeling
Study on solid phase epitaxy formed embedded SiC by tilted cluster carbon ion implantation

Several approaches of solid phase epitaxy (SPE) formed embedded SiC (eSiC) scheme have been investigated on 28 nm node technology. The single SPE thermal process by LSA only with post S/D scheme is reported to accommodate high carbon concentration as well as low sheet resistance in this work. Cluster carbon with tilted angle implantation is designed to further simplify process and increase channel strain. By this tilted cluster-carbon implantation approach, a 69.6% improvement on device mobility is achieved. Moreover, the device mobility can be further improved by combining vertical and optimized tilted cluster carbon implantation as predicted by simulation.
Large‐scale plant light‐use efficiency inferred from the seasonal cycle of atmospheric CO2

We combined atmospheric CO2 measurements, satellite observations, and an atmospheric transport model in an inverse modeling framework to infer a key property of vegetation physiology, the light-use efficiency (LUE) of net primary production, for large geographic regions. We find the highest LUE in boreal regions and in the northern hemisphere tropics. Within boreal zones, Eurasian LUE is higher than North American LUE and has a distinctly different seasonal profile. This longitudinal asymmetry is consistent with ecological differences expected from the much greater cover of deciduous vegetation in boreal Eurasia caused by the vast Siberian forests of the deciduous conifer, Larch. Inferred LUE of the northern hemisphere tropics is also high and displays a seasonal profile consistent with variations of both cloud cover and C4 vegetation activity.
Structural and biochemical studies of the substrate selectivity of carnitine acetyltransferase

Carnitine acyltransferases catalyze the exchange of acyl groups between coenzyme A (CoA) and carnitine. They have important roles in many cellular processes, especially the oxidation of long-chain fatty acids, and are attractive targets for drug discovery against diabetes and obesity. These enzymes are classified based on their substrate selectivity for short-chain, medium-chain, or long-chain fatty acids. Structural information on carnitine acetyltransferase suggests that residues Met-564 and Phe-565 may be important determinants of substrate selectivity with the side chain of Met-564 located in the putative binding pocket for acyl groups. Both residues are replaced by glycine in carnitine palmitoyltransferases. To assess the functional relevance of this structural observation, we have replaced these two residues with small amino acids by mutagenesis, characterized the substrate preference of the mutants, and determined the crystal structures of two of these mutants. Kinetic studies confirm that the M564G or M564A mutation is sufficient to increase the activity of the enzyme toward medium-chain substrates with hexanoyl-CoA being the preferred substrate for the M564G mutant. The crystal structures of the M564G mutant, both alone and in complex with carnitine, reveal a deep binding pocket that can accommodate the larger acyl group. We have determined the crystal structure of the F565A mutant in a ternary complex with both the carnitine and CoA substrates at a 1.8-A resolution. The F565A mutation has minor effects on the structure or the substrate preference of the enzyme.
Relative Contributions of Inelastic and Elastic Diffuse Phonon Scattering to Thermal Boundary Conductance Across Solid Interfaces

The accuracy of predictions of phonon thermal boundary conductance using traditional models such as the diffuse mismatch model (DMM) varies depending on the types of material comprising the interface. The DMM assumes that phonons, undergoing diffuse scattering events, are elastically scattered, which drives the energy conductance across the interface. It has been shown that at relatively high temperatures (i.e., above the Debye temperature) previously ignored inelastic scattering events can contribute substantially to interfacial transport. In this case, the predictions from the DMM become highly inaccurate. In this paper, the effects of inelastic scattering on thermal boundary conductance at metal/dielectric interfaces are studied. Experimental transient thermore-flectance data showing inelastic trends are reviewed and compared to traditional models. Using the physical assumptions in the traditional models and experimental data, the relative contributions of inelastic and elastic scattering to thermal boundary conductance are inferred.
Strain effects on sensitization development in 304 stainless steel as measured by EPR and STEM/EDS methods

The effect of uniaxial straining during isothermal heat treatment of a Type 304 stainless alloy has been examined using scanning transmission electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (STEM/EDS) and electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation (EPR) methods. Solution-annealed, flat tensile specimens were deformed at 600/sup 0/C at various strain rates up to 6%/h. EPR and STEM/EDS results show an acceleration in sensitivation development with increasing deformation. STEM/EDS measurement suggest that simultaneous straining affects both the kinetics of sensitization and the chromium concentrations established at grain boundaries.
Agrobacterium rhizogenes: recent developments and promising applications

Agrobacterium rhizogenes is the etiological agent for hairy-root disease (also known as root-mat disease). This bacterium induces the neoplastic growth of plant cells that differentiate to form “hairy roots.” Morphologically, A. rhizogenes-induced hairy roots are very similar in structure to wild-type roots with a few notable exceptions: Root hairs are longer, more numerous, and root systems are more branched and exhibit an agravitropic phenotype. Hairy roots are induced by the incorporation of a bacterial-derived segment of DNA transferred (T-DNA) into the chromosome of the plant cell. The expression of genes encoded within the T-DNA promotes the development and production of roots at the site of infection on most dicotyledonous plants. A key characteristic of hairy roots is their ability to grow quickly in the absence of exogenous plant growth regulators. As a result, hairy roots are widely used as a transgenic tool for the production of metabolites and for the study of gene function in plants. Researchers have utilized this tool to study root development and root–biotic interactions, to overexpress proteins and secondary metabolites, to detoxify environmental pollutants, and to increase drought tolerance. In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of how A. rhizogenes induces root formation, on the new uses for A. rhizogenes in tissue culture and composite plant production (wild-type shoots with transgenic roots), and the recent development of a disarmed version of A. rhizogenes for stable transgenic plant production.
Environmental and parental control of Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax) recruitment

We confirm that sardine recruitment in the California Current, during the last three decades, mimics aspects of the environment in the North Pacific indicated by the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) index. The periods of stock increase and decrease followed consecutive years with positive and negative PDO values, respectively. During the “warm” periods, the average number of recruits per biomass was more than threefold higher than that during the “cold” periods. In addition to the environmental conditions experienced by the sardine larvae, we show that the variability in sardine recruitment is partially explained by the environmental conditions many months before the spawning season and the adult condition factor. We hypothesize that sardine have a metabolic deficit during spawning, so prior good feeding opportunities are necessary to increase both total fecundity and offspring robustness, to enhance both reproduction and survival, respectively. Our findings augment a century-old theory that the reproductive success of small pelagic fish is governed by the survival of the early life stages. The condition of each parent also matters. To predict sardine recruitment, we propose a “dual-phase” model based on seasonal PDObased indices and a condition factor. The model identifies summer feeding seasons conducive to a good adult condition factor followed by spring-spawning seasons supportive of good larval retention and growth.
Attitudes Toward Capital Punishment: Preference for the Penalty or Mere Acceptance?:

Recent reports of general favorability toward capital punishment suggest that there is tremendous support for the penalty. Research also suggests, however, that people prefer meaningful alternative sentences and that there is a reluctance to endorse capital punishment for juveniles and defendants who are mentally retarded. Using a quota sampling procedure, 514 Indiana citizens were asked about these specific circumstances surrounding capital punishment and about their support for various goals of sentencing. The results suggest that although general favorability toward capital punishment is quite high (76%), such a result is misleading. Only 9% of general proponents of capital punishment maintain their support for the penalty under all circumstances questioned. Moreover, gender of respondents and support for inmates' right to rehabilitation consistently distinguish between degrees of support for capital punishment. The findings have important implications for practical legal issues, such as the selection ...
PREFERENTIAL PROCUREMENT PROGRAMS AND MINORlTY‐OWNED BUSINESSES

Some minority business enterprises (MBEs) benefit from their participation in government preferential procurement programs and some do not. A subset of minority vendors identified in this study beh...
Estrogen replacement therapy and cardioprotection: mechanisms and controversies

Epidemiological and case-controlled studies suggest that estrogen replacement therapy might be beneficial in terms of primary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD). This beneficial effect of estrogens was initially considered to be due to the reduction of low density lipoproteins (LDL) and to increases in high density lipoproteins (HDL). Recent studies have shown that estrogens protect against oxidative stress and decrease LDL oxidation. Estrogens have direct effects on the arterial tissue and modulate vascular reactivity through nitric oxide and prostaglandin synthesis. While many of the effects of estrogen on vascular tissue are believed to be mediated by estrogen receptors alpha and beta, there is evidence for 'immediate non-genomic' effects. The role of HDL in interacting with 17beta-estradiol including its esterification and transfer of esterified estrogens to LDL is beginning to be elucidated. Despite the suggested positive effects of estrogens, two recent placebo-controlled clinical trials in women with CHD did not detect any beneficial effects on overall coronary events with estrogen therapy. In fact, there was an increase in CHD events in some women. Mutations in thrombogenic genes (factor V Leiden, prothrombin mutation, etc.) in a subset of women may play a role in this unexpected finding. Thus, the cardioprotective effect of estrogens appears to be more complicated than originally thought and requires more research.