cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biological Effects of Rabbit Anti-Thymocyte Immunoglobulin (rATG, Thymoglobulin®) in T-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cell Lines.

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as powerful adjuncts in the treatment of patients with B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. While the treatment of B-cell lymphomas has incorporated mAbs and other biological agents into standard chemotherapy regimens, the treatment options for patients with T-cell lymphomas remain relatively limited. There exists a dire need to develop targeted therapies for T-cell lymphomas. Thymoglobulin® (rATG) is a rabbit polyclonal antibody targeting various receptors present on T-cell lymphocytes. When administered at high doses, rATG is known to deplete various subsets of T-cell lymphocytes and induce tolerance in solid organ or bone marrow transplant settings. Using several pre-clinical models, we evaluated the biological effects of rATG against various T-cell lymphoma cell lines. Experiments were conducted in HH, H9, Loucy and HT102 cell lines. A B-cell mantle cell lymphoma cell line was used as a control (MJ). rATG-induced cell-growth inhibition was measured by [3H]-Thymide incorporation assays and measured at 24 and 48 hours. Induction of apoptosis in T-cell lines following rATG exposure was determined by annexin-V/propidium iodine staining and quantified by flow cytometric analysis. Standard functional assays for ADCC/CMC were performed using rATG (5 or 25mg/ml) in 51Cr-labeled T-cells. We found that rATG inhibited DNA synthesis in all the T-cell lines tested. No biological effect was observed in the B-cell mantle cell lymphoma line. Treatment with rATG at either 5 or 25mg/ml resulted in a 30 to 50% growth inhibition when compared to isotype or vehicle controls (P
Memory for disguised same- and cross-race faces: The eyes have it

According to research on the cross-race effect, through experience, observers learn which diagnostic facial features are important for recognizing same-race compared to cross-race faces. These diag...
Evaluation of sedation-related medication errors in patients on contact isolation in the intensive care unit.

Summary Background Patients in intensive care units (ICUs) may be placed on contact isolation for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization to prevent transmission. Prior studies suggest that isolated patients may receive substandard care compared with non-isolated patients. An optimal level of sedation is required to facilitate mechanical ventilation (MV) and to minimize adverse outcomes. Aim To determine if patients on MV and isolated for MRSA colonization are at increased risk of oversedation compared with non-isolated patients. Methods Retrospective chart review of adult patients on MV who received an MRSA nasal polymerase chain reaction assay and sedation within 24 and 48 h of ICU admission, respectively. Endpoints included rate of inappropriate sedation, length of ICU stay, length of time on MV, and incidence of ventilator-associated complications. Findings In total, 226 patients were included (114 MRSA positive, 112 MRSA negative). Baseline demographics were similar between the groups, with the exception of ICU admission diagnosis. Fifty-six (55%) isolated patients experienced inappropriate sedation compared with 49 (50%) non-isolated patients (P=0.482). Isolated patients spent longer in the ICU (10.4 vs 6.8 days, P=0.0006), longer on MV (8.98 vs 4.81 days, P Conclusions Isolated patients were not at increased risk of oversedation compared with non-isolated patients. There was an association between the use of contact isolation for MRSA nares colonization and prolonged ICU stay and prolonged MV.
Thoracic Oncology Clinical Trial Eligibility Criteria and Requirements Continue to Increase in Number and Complexity

Abstract Introduction Eligibility criteria and screening procedures are designed to optimize the scientific yield and maximize the safety of clinical trials. However, they may also heighten trial complexity, hinder enrollment, decrease generalizability, and increase costs. We analyzed the types and number of eligibility criteria and screening procedures among thoracic oncology clinical trials sponsored or endorsed by the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group. Methods We identified trials and obtained protocols from the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group website. Eligibility criteria were grouped and categorized as comorbidity (classified by organ system), administrative requirements, prior treatment, and measurable disease requirements. Associations between trial characteristics and eligibility criteria were analyzed by using the Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests. Results A total of 74 lung cancer trials activated in 1986–2016 were identified. The total number of eligibility criteria was associated with trial principal therapy (a median of nine for surgical, 18 for radiation, and 20 for medical therapy [p = 0.02]), trial primary end point (a median of 20 for overall survival, 28 for progression-free survival, and 17 for other [p = 0.001]), number of therapies (p = 0.05), and year of activation (a median of 16 for 1986–1995, 19 for 1996–2005, and 27 for 2006–2016 [P Conclusions The number of eligibility criteria and screening procedures in medical therapy lung cancer clinical trials continues to rise. Continued efforts to simplify protocol eligibility and procedures are warranted to promote trial adherence, enrollment, completion, and generalizability.
What Makes Computer Science a Science

From the beginning computer science has been a contentious subject, with practitioners disagreeing on whether computers and computing could (or indeed should) be the subject of a science and, if so, what kind of science it should be. As the subject has developed, it has grounded computing in a body of profound and elegant mathematical knowledge relating abstract machines to computational processes, thereby creating the field of “applied abstract algebra” and bringing the most advanced mathematics of the twentieth century to b ear on the defining technology of our age. That theory has led the development of powerful tools for programming and for monitoring the operations of computers, thus placing the power of the computer in the hands of professional and non -professional users alike. Software engineering has generally followed suit, taking as its (as yet unfulfilled) goal the automation of the processes of designing and producing the software systems that automate processes in the world. Indeed, much of its literature is redolent with the language of machine-based production. Alongside this mainstream of development has flowed a current critical of its focus on the computer and aimed at a broader view of the subject and of humans both as agents and subjects of automation. These critics argue that, properly construed, informatics (informatique, Informatik, informatica) extends beyond the computer and its operations to include its social context and that a commensurate theory of informatics would reach beyond mathematics to encompass social and political theory. Despite the failure so far to create a viable alternative to computer science as currently construed, recent trends in software engineering suggest how these two streams of thought may be converging.
Mortality Rates After the First Diagnosis of Psychotic Disorder in Adolescents and Young Adults.

Importance Individuals with psychotic disorders have increased mortality, and recent research suggests a marked increase shortly after diagnosis. Objective To use population-based data to examine overall and cause-specific mortality after first diagnosis of a psychotic disorder. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study used records from 5 integrated health systems that serve more than 8 million members in 5 states. Members aged 16 through 30 years who received a first lifetime diagnosis of a psychotic disorder from September 30, 2009, through September 30, 2015, and 2 comparison groups matched for age, sex, health system, and year of diagnosis were selected from all members making an outpatient visit (general outpatient group) and from all receiving a first diagnosis of unipolar depression (unipolar depression group). Exposures First recorded diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, mood disorder with psychotic symptoms, or other psychotic disorder in any outpatient, emergency department, or inpatient setting. Main Outcomes and Measures Death within 3 years after the index diagnosis or visit date, ascertained from health system electronic health records, insurance claims, and state mortality records. Results A total of 11 713 members with first diagnosis of a psychotic disorder (6976 [59.6%] men and 4737 [40.4%] women; 2368 [20.2%] aged 16-17 and 9345 [79.8%] aged 18-30 years) were matched to 35 576 outpatient service users and 23 415 members with a first diagnosis of unipolar depression. During the year after the first diagnosis, all-cause mortality was 54.6 (95% CI, 41.3-68.0) per 10 000 in the psychotic disorder group compared with 20.5 (95% CI, 14.7-26.3) per 10 000 in the unipolar depression group and 6.7 (95% CI, 4.0-9.4) per 10 000 in the general outpatient group. After adjustment for race, ethnicity, and preexisting chronic medical conditions, the relative hazard of death in the psychotic disorder group compared with the general outpatient group was 34.93 (95% CI, 8.19-149.10) for self-inflicted injury or poisoning and 4.67 (95% CI, 2.01-10.86) for other type of injury or poisoning. Risk of death due to heart disease or diabetes did not differ significantly between the psychotic disorder and the general outpatient groups (hazard ratio, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.15-3.96). Between the first and third years after diagnosis, all-cause mortality in the psychotic disorder group decreased from 54.6 to 27.1 per 10 000 persons and injury and poisoning mortality decreased from 30.6 to 15.1 per 10 000 persons. Both rates, however, remained 3 times as high as in the general outpatient group (9.0 per 10 000 for all causes; 4.8 per 10 000 for injury or poisoning). Conclusions and Relevance Increases in early mortality underscore the importance of systematic intervention for young persons experiencing the first onset of psychosis. Clinicians should attend to the elevated suicide risk after the first diagnosis a psychotic disorder.
Correction to: The Interplay Between the Microbiome and Cardiovascular Risk

In the recently published paper, “The Interplay Between the Microbiome and Cardiovascular Risk”, the last name of the lead author is listed incorrectly. The author’s name is Bre A. Minniefield.
Skin Color and Blood Quantum: Getting the Red Out

People with privilege have the power to determine their own identity. This is not true of minority groups. One unique process involves Native Americans who have to prove they are “Indian” by demonstrating they have “enough” tribal blood (at least 25%) to make them “Indian.” The system of blood quantum was built by an oppressive genocidal government of the past yet is readily accepted and continued today. It is not a coincidence that many tribes use the same system to determine membership. This is a clear example of how oppression, which is really built on the color of one’s skin, is effective. It is also a demonstration of policies used to rid or control people of “darker” skin. This chapter discusses the history of blood quantum, the impact of blood quantum’s oppressive policies on tribal membership, and the potential impact if policies are continued and offers some suggestions for change.
Biography and the Curriculum

In recent years many critics have written of the pervasive dehumanization and possible rehumanization of education. Plighting their troth to the autonomy and integrity of the human person, these commentators scour the educational landscape in search of policies and practices that depersonalize. They have often attacked teaching methods and the social and institutional situation in which teaching is undertaken; a few errant knights have even assailed the enterprise of teaching itself. Less often has curriculum content been questioned, and when it has been, the critics were usually concerned about "irrelevance." There is, however, another way in which the curriculum is obviously and literally depersonalized yet it has, curiously, avoided all the attacks of all recent humanizers I know of. Therefore, I propose to take up sword and join the fray (without judging the claims of the other participants). The object of my criticism is the place of biography in the curriculum, the role now given to the study of another person's life. [excerpt]
Distributed k-means and k-median clustering on general communication topologies

This paper provides new algorithms for distributed clustering for two popular center-based objectives, $k$-median and $k$-means. These algorithms have provable guarantees and improve communication complexity over existing approaches. Following a classic approach in clustering by \cite{har2004coresets}, we reduce the problem of finding a clustering with low cost to the problem of finding a `coreset' of small size. We provide a distributed method for constructing a global coreset which improves over the previous methods by reducing the communication complexity, and which works over general communication topologies. We provide experimental evidence for this approach on both synthetic and real data sets.
Chemical Additives Enable Native Mass Spectrometry Measurement of Membrane Protein Oligomeric State within Intact Nanodiscs

Membrane proteins play critical biochemical roles but remain challenging to study. Recently, native or nondenaturing mass spectrometry (MS) has made great strides in characterizing membrane protein interactions. However, conventional native MS relies on detergent micelles, which may disrupt natural interactions. Lipoprotein nanodiscs provide a platform to present membrane proteins for native MS within a lipid bilayer environment, but previous native MS of membrane proteins in nanodiscs has been limited by the intermediate stability of nanodiscs. It is difficult to eject membrane proteins from nanodiscs for native MS but also difficult to retain intact nanodisc complexes with membrane proteins inside. Here, we employed chemical reagents that modulate the charge acquired during electrospray ionization (ESI). By modulating ESI conditions, we could either eject the membrane protein complex with few bound lipids or capture the intact membrane protein nanodisc complex-allowing measurement of the membrane protein oligomeric state within an intact lipid bilayer environment. The dramatic differences in the stability of nanodiscs under different ESI conditions opens new applications for native MS of nanodiscs.
Lubricin/proteoglycan 4 detected in vocal folds of humans and five other mammals.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Lubricin/proteoglycan-4 (PRG4) lubricates connective tissues such as joints and tendon sheaths, enabling them to better withstand shearing and frictional forces during motion. We wondered whether PRG4 might play a role in phonation, as normal vocal folds withstand repetitive, high-velocity deformations remarkably well. As a first step, we tested whether PRG4 is expressed in vocal folds. STUDY DESIGN Laboratory study. METHODS Anatomical and molecular methods were applied to 47 larynges from humans, macaque (Macaca fascicularis), canines, pigs, calves, and rats. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) methods were used to test for the presence of PRG4. RESULTS In all species, the true vocal fold lamina propria (TVF-LP) was positive for PRG4 by IHC, whereas immunoreactivity of the false vocal fold was weak or absent, depending on the species. Human TVF-LP was strongly stained across all layers. Immunoreactivity was seen variably on the vocal fold surface and within the vocal fold epithelium, in the conus elasticus and thyroglottic ligament, and at the tip of vocal process. Western blots of four humans and six pigs demonstrated immunoreactivity at appropriate molecular weight. qRT-PCR of pig tissues confirmed PRG4 mRNA expression, which was highest in the TVF-LP. CONCLUSIONS PRG4 was found in phonatory tissues of six mammals. We suggest it might act as a lubricant within the lamina propria and possibly on the vocal fold surface, limiting phonation-related damage to vocal fold extracellular matrix and epithelium, and enhancing vocal efficiency by reducing internal friction (viscosity) within the vocal fold. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 129:E229-E237, 2019.
Structure and Virus-Associated Oncogenes of Avian Sarcoma and Leukemia Viruses

The aim of the review presented here is to give a brief overview of avian retroviruses, the disease they cause and genes and gene products that are thought to be associated with transformation of target cells, in order to provide a common basis of knowledge for readers of this monograph. Retroviruses are of interest first as pathogens in a number of vertebrate species, and second as a major tool of experimental oncologists. The speed and reliability with which these small viruses cause tumors in animals, and analogous changes in tissue culture, suggested early on that an understanding of retroviral functions would provide basic information on the primary mechanisms of cancer causation. This belief is being justified by the results of recent years. A number of genes, originally described in retroviruses and subsequently in uninfected vertebrate cells, have been found to be associated with a variety of tumors of non-avian origin. However, in many respects the virus remains the most productive avenue in the investigation of on cogene function.
Use of Data from Epidemiologic Studies of Pain

Epidemiologic studies of pain are often dependent on subjective survey- or questionnaire-based data. Many well-validated methods to assess pain and associated symptoms exist, but they are not validated for all populations. Some subjective differences reflect biology, such as in gender differences in pain.
Mild Pd‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation of Methanesulfonamide and Related Nucleophiles: Avoiding Potentially Genotoxic Reagents and By‐products.

An efficient and widely applicable method to prepare N-arylsulfonamides is developed and applied to the synthesis of the bissulfonamide drug dofetilide (VIII).
Evolutionary Perspectives on Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women

This review attempts to explain female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) from a functional evolutionary perspective. Can theory and data regarding the evolved functions of female sexual motivation help explain cases of low sexual desire in women? If so, might some such cases be the product of brain mechanisms operating in ways that promoted reproductive success during human evolution, rather than low desire resulting from pathology? A functional theory of women’s sexual motivation is first summarized, which posits that sexual desire is modulated by both conception probability and social variables related to the initiation and maintenance of pair bonds. Recent evidence consistent with this theory is reviewed, followed by review of evidence showing that variables predicting sexual desire in most women may also explain cases of HSDD. Women’s sexual desire varies in functionally patterned ways. Discovering the evolved design of brain mechanisms that generate those patterns is crucial for understanding HSDD.
Doppler-Derived Arterial Load Indices Better Reflect Left Ventricular Afterload Than Systolic Blood Pressure in Coarctation of Aorta.

Background: Patients with vascular stiffening may display increased arterial afterload that is out of proportion to systolic blood pressure (SBP). Since vascular and endothelial dysfunction develop...
Evaluating the Role of the Steroid and Xenobiotic Receptor (SXR/PXR) in PCB-153 Metabolism and Protection against Associated Adverse Effects during Perinatal and Chronic Exposure in Mice.

Background: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are environmental toxicants; PCB exposure has been associated with adverse effects on wildlife and humans. However, the mechanisms underlying these adve...
Simultaneous versus staged partial nephrectomies for bilateral synchronous solid renal masses

Abstract Objectives The optimal management approach for synchronous bilateral renal masses is unknown, particularly regarding surgical sequencing of bilateral partial nephrectomy (PN). We evaluated the impact of simultaneous vs. staged bilateral PN on renal functional, perioperative, and oncologic outcomes. Patients and Methods We reviewed our institutional nephrectomy registry to identify patients who underwent simultaneous or staged (within 6 months) bilateral PN for nonmetastatic bilateral synchronous solid renal masses between 1980 and 2015. Short-term and long-term renal function changes were assessed at 3 and 12 months, respectively. Perioperative outcomes were pooled across staged surgeries by taking the sum of each outcome. Local recurrence-free, distant metastases-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Outcomes were compared by surgical sequencing approach. A sensitivity analysis was performed that grouped approaches by preoperative intent. Results Among the 107 patients studied, 77 (72%) underwent simultaneous and 30 (28%) underwent staged PN. The majority of PN were performed by open approach. Clinicopathologic features were similar between groups. Patients who underwent simultaneous PN had lower mean short-term (−6% vs. −24%, P = 0.015) and median long-term (−4% vs. −22%, P Conclusions Our results suggest that when technically feasible, simultaneous PN yields comparable outcomes vs. staged PN, offering a reasonable surgical sequencing approach for patients presenting with bilateral synchronous renal masses.
Pseudoaneurysm of the Mitral-Aortic Fibrosa in the Absence of Valvulitis.

The mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa (MAIVF) is the thin avascular fibrous structure located between the left side of the non-coronary cusp, the left coronary cusp and the anterior mitral leaflet. MAIVF pseudoaneurysm typically results as a complication of endocarditis, aortic valve surgery or chest trauma. We present a case of an incidental MAIF pseudoaneurysm in a 68-year female with a history of rheumatic fever without involvement of the mitral apparatus. We also discuss the presentation, evaluation and management of this rather rare valvular disorder.
Design flow and nitrate removal evaluation of a wide denitrifying bioreactor with baffles

Abstract A relatively wide denitrifying woodchip bioreactor (LWD: 16.8 × 10.7 × 0.91 m) was installed with two flow-routing baffles in Illinois, USA with the design objectives of minimizing inflow manifold-related flow restrictions while maintaining both a relatively consistent footprint and nitrate-removal performance compared to conventional designs. This wide design did not improve the percentage of flow from the field that was treated (generally about 40% of flow treated) compared to other sites. However, the Richards-Baker flashiness index (0.74 to 0.91) and probability of exceedance evaluations indicated site drainage was flashy which might have accounted for the lower than expected performance. Nitrate removal was consistent with other bioreactors despite the new design ideas (22–24% edge of field N loss reduction; 0.72 to 1.3 g N removed m−3 d−1). Within the context of the need for accelerated conservation drainage practice adoption across the US Midwest, trying to account for flow uncertainties like flashiness with site-specific designs could be a bottleneck for bioreactor design and implementation. It may be worthwhile to explore possible benefits of a simpler design approach (e.g. standardized plug-and-play designs) since there are many factors at play in bioreactor performance.
Pectoralis Major Tendon Reconstruction at the Myotendinous Junction With Semitendinosus Allograft: An Operative Technique:

Background:Pectoralis major (PM) tendon tears are a relatively uncommon injury that typically occurs in a young, active population during weightlifting or recreational sports. Musculotendinous junc...
The role of convection-enhanced delivery in the treatment of GBM

Abstract Throughout this chapter, we will discuss the various breakthroughs in methodology associated with convection-enhanced delivery (CED). Several preclinical trials will be discussed, focusing on how they laid the groundwork for human trials, and how they have raised questions regarding the ideal parameters for CED treatment. This chapter will discuss the limited clinical trials of CED for glioblastoma (GBM), with emphasis on the only Phase III trial to date, the PRECISE trial, along with some of its shortcomings. We will briefly explore the future of CED research, and the hope that it can be used as a method for sensitizing recurrent GBM to other therapies as well.
The temperature-dependent conformational ensemble of SARS-CoV-2 main protease (M pro )

The COVID-19 pandemic, instigated by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, continues to plague the globe. The SARS-CoV-2 main protease, or M pro , is a promising target for development of novel antiviral therapeutics. Previous X-ray crystal structures of M pro were obtained at cryogenic temperature or room temperature only. Here we report a series of high-resolution crystal structures of unliganded M pro across multiple temperatures from cryogenic to physiological, and another at high humidity. We interrogate these datasets with parsimonious multiconformer models, multi-copy ensemble models, and isomorphous difference density maps. Our analysis reveals a temperature-dependent conformational landscape for M pro , including mobile solvent interleaved between the catalytic dyad, mercurial conformational heterogeneity in a key substrate-binding loop, and a far-reaching intramolecular network bridging the active site and dimer interface. Our results may inspire new strategies for antiviral drug development to counter-punch COVID-19 and combat future coronavirus pandemics. Synopsis: X-ray crystallography at variable temperature for SARS-CoV-2 M pro reveals a complex conformational landscape, including mobile solvent at the catalytic dyad, mercurial conformational heterogeneity in a key substrate-binding loop, and an intramolecular network bridging the active site and dimer interface.
Special Education: Update on Endrew F. and Fry

This presentation describes selected case law developments following the Supreme Court decisions in Endrew F. and Fry. It also covers some additional recent developments of importance on other topics in Special Education law, with particular relevance to cases in Illinois.
Discussion of “Exponential-Family Embedding With Application to Cell Developmental Trajectories for Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data”

We would like to congratulate Kevin, Jing, and Kathryn (KJK hereon) for providing exponential-family singular value decomposition (eSVD), an embedding method for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-s...
Identification of Stable and Unstable Power Swings using Pattern Recognition

Faults during symmetrical power swings cause maloperation of distance relay. Undesired operation also occurs during unstable power swings causing uncontrolled islanding. Faster detection of faults during power swings and classification of power swings can assist the protection system in making reliable decisions on blocking or unblocking a relay's operation. This paper segregates the faults, faults during power swing from power swings in one-cycle with an accuracy of 99.3%. It then identifies the different power swings in 10 cycles that occur in a 9-bus WSCC power system. Support Vector Machines (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), and k-Nearest Neighbor (kNN) classifiers are trained and tested on six features obtained from 3-phase(ph) relay voltage and current to test the validity of the detection and classification scheme. The different faults, faults during swings, and power swings are simulated in PSCAD/EMTDC.
Out of the box and into the workplace—the friction mechanics of worn shoes

Shoe tread reduces the risk of slips and falls by improving shoe-floor friction and under- shoe fluid dispersion. Shoe design and friction standards exist to improve shoe safety, though these stand...
Pollen transport: Illuminating a key mechanism of disassortative pollination.

Summary Floral sexual polymorphisms have evolved repeatedly in angiosperms and are thought to reduce self-pollination and increase pollen export. Using a powerful pollen-labeling technique, quantum dots, a new study shows that pollen placement on pollinator bodies plays a critical role in disassortative pollination.
Amyloid-β disrupts unitary calcium entry through endothelial NMDA receptors in mouse cerebral arteries.

Transient increases in intracellular Ca2+ activate endothelium-dependent vasodilatory pathways. This process is impaired in cerebral amyloid angiopathy, where amyloid-β(1-40) accumulates around blo...
Early Occupation of the Caribou Lake Site, Colorado Front Range

Chipping debris, a bifacial knife, and the stem of a probable Scottsbluff projectile point were found on the lower of two living surfaces at the Caribou Lake site, Grand County, Colorado. The age o...
Age-dependent increase in miRNA-34a expression in the posterior pole of the mouse eye.

Purpose: MicroRNA-34a (miR-34a) has been implicated in neurodegeneration. MiR-34a belongs to a signaling network involving p53 and Sirt-1. This network responds to DNA damage with further downstream signals that induce senescence or apoptosis. Our goal was to measure the expression level of miR-34a in the mouse retina and RPE as a function of age. Methods: The age-dependent change in miR-34a expression was quantified using a real-time PCR (RT-PCR) assay on microRNA isolates from eye tissue: the retina and RPE/choroid (4, 18, 24, and 32 months of age). Tissue localization of miR-34a was determined by in situ hybridization (ISH) for a series of time points. Expression of the miR-34a target gene Sirt1 was analyzed using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results: MiR-34a examined with real-time PCR showed a linear increase in expression with age when compared to that of 4-month-old mice. However, the level of expression between the 24 and 32-month-old animals showed mild downregulation. An age-related increase in miR-34a expression was confirmed in the mouse eye using in situ hybridization. An inverse relationship between the levels of expression of miR-34a and its target Sirt1 mRNA was found at 18 and 24 months of age. Conclusions: Our data showed that miR-34a expression increased in the retina and RPE with age. The level of DNA damage in mitochondria in the retina and RPE followed a similar time course. This suggests that miR-34a may play a role in the senescence and apoptosis of the retina and RPE cells in the aging eye.
Control of Expansive Concretes During Construction

Persons who design and construct structures using expansive concretes necessarily make many decisions affecting the behavior of these concretes. Some of the factors affecting expansion over which the designer and constructor have some control are the cement storage, mix constituents, mixing procedure, delivery time, curing, and restraint. The choices made concerning these factors have a markedly greater affect on expansion than on shrinkage. Poor control or lack of attention to these factors may result in greatly reduced expansion and unnecessary cracking. Generally speaking, however, good concrete practices will result in good expansive concrete behavior.
Visualization of myocardial motion using MICSR trinary checkerboard display.

Magnetic resonance tagging is used to quantify and visualize myocardial motion. The lack of tag persistence, however, is often a problem in visualizing motion throughout the cardiac cycle, particularly in late diastole. Complementary spatial modulation of magnetization (CSPAMM) improves tag persistence, but requires complex signal subtraction, which is not available on all scanners. This paper analyzes the contrast to noise properties of a new method called magnitude image CSPAMM reconstruction (MICSR), which requires only magnitude images from the scanner and demonstrates improved contrast and tag persistence over CSPAMM. A novel “trinary checkerboard” display of myocardial motion, ideally matched to the contrast to noise properties of MICSR, is also presented.
On the asymmetric rh(I) catalyzed [4+2] cycloisomerization reaction. Electronic and torsional ligand control of absolute stereoselection.

Abstract The use of bisphosphine ligands related to DIOP as chiral modifiers in the Rh(I) catalyzed [4+2] cycloisomerization reaction results in moderate to goo
A product life cycle approach to urban waterfronts: The revitalization of Galveston

Abstract Urban waterfronts are increasingly the focus of revitalization efforts designed to enhance tourism and recreation. The evolution of urban waterfronts suggests that these resources experience distinct stages of introduction, growth, maturity, decline, and sometimes revitalization. In this paper the product life cycle is broadened to describe the evolution of the waterfront district of Galveston, Texas. Implications of the product life cycle model of urban waterfront revitalization pertain to public policy formation, “product”; development, and management response to different life cycle stages.
Radio-Influence Testing on 70 Miles of 345-Kv Horizontal Bundle Conductor

A satisfactory radio-influence level (RIL) can be achieved in a 345-kv transmission line using 945-MCM ACSR conductor bundled at 18-inch spacing, standard clamps, triangular space plates, and a horizontal phase spacing of 27 feet. Attenuation tests show that RI readings at one site are not materially affected by precipitation on the line a few miles away The Ohio Edison Company conducted laboratory tests (previous to the construction of 70 miles of the 345-kv line) to determine the corona and RI levels of the line hardware to be used on its 345-kv transmission lines and has conducted field tests on the completed transmission line to evaluate the selection of hardware. On January 31, 1961, the Sammis-Star North 345-kv transmission line was energized for RI testing; see Figs. 1 and 2. The tests ran for approximately 8 weeks.
Perfectionism and Bulimic Symptoms in African American College Women: Dimensions of Perfectionism and Their Interactions with Perceived Weight Status.

This study had 2 primary aims: (a) to examine the unique relations between maladaptive and adaptive dimensions of perfectionism and bulimic symptoms and (b) to test an interactive model of perfectionism and perceived weight status for bulimic symptoms in a sample of African American female undergraduates. The sample consisted of 97 women at Time 1 and 70 women at Time 2 about 5 months later, with bulimic symptoms assessed at both time points. Results showed that maladaptive perfectionism, but not adaptive perfectionism, was uniquely related to bulimic symptoms in cross-sectional analyses. Tests of interaction effects indicated that maladaptive perfectionism interacted with perceived weight status to identify elevated bulimic symptoms such that women with high levels of maladaptive perfectionism who felt overweight exhibited the highest levels of bulimic symptoms, both concurrently and prospectively after controlling for Time 1 levels of bulimic symptoms. This study highlights the relevance of maladaptive perfectionism to bulimic symptoms in African American college women.
The Oxidation of Phenol by Ferrate(VI) Andferrate(V). A Pulse Radiolysis and Stopped-Flow Study

Potassium ferrate. K2FeO4, is found to oxidize phenol in aqueous solution (5.5 ± pH ± 10) by a process which is second order in both reactants; -d[Fevt]/dt=ki[FeVI][phenol], kI = 107M−1s−1. Product...
THE PARTICIPATION OF DNA IN ROUS SARCOMA VIRUS PRODUCTION.

Abstract Experiments are presented showing that the inhibition by actinomycin D of Rofs sarcoma virus production, which was reported previofsly ( Temin, 1963b) , is due to the inhibition of synthesis of viral nucleic acid. The results of experiments on the effects of amethopterin on Rofs sarcoma virus (RSV) production, on the induction of converted nonvirus-producing Rofs cells, and on the infection of normal cells with RSV are presented. There appear to be some steps in infection which are sensitive to inhibition by amethopterin which are not present in virus production or induction.
Prior image constrained compressed sensing: a quantitative performance evaluation

The appeal of compressed sensing (CS) in the context of medical imaging is undeniable. In MRI, it could enable shorter acquisition times while in CT, it has the potential to reduce the ionizing radiation dose imparted to patients. However, images reconstructed using a CS-based approach often show an unusual texture and a potential loss in spatial resolution. The prior image constrained compressed sensing (PICCS) algorithm has been shown to enable accurate image reconstruction at lower levels of sampling. This study systematically evaluates an implementation of PICCS applied to myocardial perfusion imaging with respect to two parameters of its objective function. The prior image parameter α was shown here to yield an optimal image quality in the range 0.4 to 0.5. A quantitative evaluation in terms of temporal resolution, spatial resolution, noise level, noise texture, and reconstruction accuracy was performed.
Nonlinear steady state permeation through a laminated inhomogeneous membrane

We integrate the steady state diffusion equation in a membrane whose permeability is weakly inhomogeneous in the direction of diffusion x (i.e. a laminated membrane) and depends linearly on the activity. We show that this solution can be closely approximated by a solution in which the permeability is a product of linear factors in the activity and x. A possible application to a graded membrane is pointed out.
Isolation and characterization of β-glucosidase from the cytosol of rat kidney cortex

A procedure is described for the preparation of extensively purified beta-D-glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.21) from the cytosol fraction of rat kidney. The specific activity of the beta-glucosidase in the high speed supernatant (100 000 X g, 90 min) fraction of rat kidney homogenate is 700-fold greater than that in the same fraction from heart, skeletal muscle, lung, spleen, brain or liver. beta-Glucosidase activity co-chromatographs with beta-D-galactosidase, beta-D-fucosidase, alpha-L-arabinosidase and beta-D-xylosidase activities through the last four column steps of the purification and their specific activities are 0.26, 0.39, 0.028 and 0.017 relative to that of beta-glucosidase, respectively. The specific activity of the apparently homogeneous beta-glucosidase is 115 000 nmol of glucose released from 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside per mg protein per h. All five glycosidase activities possess similar pH dependency (pH optimum, 6--7) and heat lability, and co-migrate on polyacrylamide disc gels at pH 8.9 (RF, 0.67). beta-Glucosidase acitivity is inhibited competitively by glucono-(1 leads to 5)-lactone (KI, 0.61 mM) and non-competitively by a variety of sulfhydryl reagents including N-ethylmaleimide, p-chloromercuribenzoate, 5,5'-dithio-bis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), and iodoacetic acid. Although the enzyme will release glucose from p-nitrophenyl and 4-methylumbelliferyl derivatives of beta-D-glucose, it will not hydrolyze xylosyl-O-serine, beta-D-glucocerebroside, lactose, galactosylovalbumin or trehalose. The enzyme consists of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of 50 000--58 000, has a sedimentation coefficient of 4.41 S and contains a relatively large number of acidic amino acids. A study of the distribution of beta-glucosidase activity in various regions of the dissected rat kidney indicates that the enzyme is probably contained in cells of the proximal convoluted tubule. The enzyme is also present in relatively large amounts in the villus cells, but not crypt cells, of the intestine. The physiological substrate and function of the enzyme are unknown.
Angiotensin II-Stimulated Collagen Gel Contraction By Heart Fibroblasts: Role of the AT1 Receptor and Tyrosine Kinase Activity

The accumulation and organization of extracellular matrix (ECM) components play critical roles in development, maintenance, and pathogenesis of most organ systems. These processes are regulated by the precisely orchestrated expression of ECM components, their receptors, and matrix proteases. The collagen gel culture system has been extensively used as a model to examine ECM remodeling similar to that which occurs during development and wound healing. Growth factors, including transforming growth factor-beta, platelet-derived growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, and angiotensin II, have been shown to stimulate collagen gel contraction. The present studies were undertaken to begin to examine the mechanisms through which angiotensin II stimulates collagen remodeling and gel contraction. These studies indicate that angiotensin II stimulates collagen gel contraction by isolated heart fibroblasts in a dose-dependent manner and that this response is inhibited by the AT1 receptor antagonist Losartan. Furthermore, stimulation of collagen gel contraction by angiotensin II is also blocked by the src-related tyrosine kinase inhibitors genistein and herbimycin, indicating that activation of tyrosine kinases plays critical roles in this process. Stimulation of gel contraction by angiotensin II also involves the activation of JAK2, a member of the JAK/STAT pathways of transcriptional activation. Immunoprecipitation of surface-labeled fibroblasts indicate that cell surface levels of collagen-binding integrins also increase in response to angiotensin II treatment. Determining the underlying mechanisms regulating ECM remodeling is essential to understanding the role of ECM organization in development and disease.
Guanine-nucleotide exchange factors: a family of positive regulators of Ras and related GTPases

The past year has seen remarkable advances in our understanding of how members of the Ras superfamily of GTPases are activated. Not only have new guanine-nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) that activate these GTPases been identified, but in some cases, the mechanisms by which GEFs are connected to events at the cell surface have also been described. We have also come to appreciate the possibilities that GEFs may be multifunctional and that they may contribute to tissue-specific regulation of their cognate GTPase.
A quantitative version of Catlin-D’Angelo–Quillen theorem

Let \({f (z,\bar z)}\) be a positive bi-homogeneous hermitian form on \({\mathbb{C}^n}\), of degree m. A theorem proved by Quillen and rediscovered by Catlin and D’Angelo states that for N large enough, \({\langle{z,\bar z}\rangle^Nf(z,\bar z)}\) can be written as the sum of squares of homogeneous polynomials of degree m + N. We show this works for N ≥ Cf ((n + m) log n)3 where Cf has a natural expression in terms of coefficients of f, inversely proportional to the minimum of f on the sphere. The proof uses a semiclassical point of view on which 1/N plays a role of the small parameter h.
Titanium carbide etching in high density plasma

Abstract Titanium carbide etching in fluorine-containing (CF 4 , CHF 3 , and SF 6 ) high density plasmas was investigated. The dependence of etch rates on gas composition and bias power was studied using the response surface method and the effects of source power and pressure were also examined. Argon was found to enhance the etch rate but the effect diminished when etching was controlled by the availability of the reactive species. The increase of the etch rate with increasing pressure indicated that the reactive radicals are the main etching species. The etch rate in SF 6 plasma was found to be up to four times faster than in CF 4 plasma because of the abundance of the active fluorine species. Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) detected a carbon-rich surface layer for samples etched with CF 4 , CHF 3 and even a non-polymerizing SF 6 plasma.The results suggested that titanium was extracted preferentially from TiC during reactive ion etching in fluorinated plasmas.
Renewable resources from Arizona trees and shrubs

Abstract Plants of 100 tree and shrub species from arid and semiarid regions of Arizona were examined botanically and chemically for their multipurpose potential as renewable sources of industrial raw materials. Analytical and botanical features are presented here for only 12 of the more promising species. Samples of the 100 species were analyzed for yields of oils, polyphenols, hydrocarbons, and crude proteins. Classes of oil constituents were identified. Contents of fatty acids and unsaponifiable matter of saponified oils were determined. Hydrocarbons were analyzed for the presence of rubber and gutta (polyisoprenes). Polyisoprenes were analyzed for average molecular weight and molecular weight distribution. Impressive yields of oil and/or polyphenol were extracted from Asclepias linaria, Juglans major, Ligustrum japonicum, Mimosa biuncifera, Mortonia scabrella, Olea europaea, and Rhus choriophylla. Of these, O. europaea and L. Japonicum of the Oleaceae are rapid-growing, evergreen species with low to moderate moisture requirements and very good adaptability to pollarding.
Chromatin and histones in mealy bug cell explants: activation and decondensation of facultative heterochromatin by a synthetic polyanion.

In spermatogonial cells of the mealy bug, Planococcus citri, at interphase the five maternal chromosomes appear as diffuse euchromatin and the five paternal chromosomes are heterochromatic, genetically inactive, and incorporate tritiated uridine into RNA at a diminished rate. Testes squashes were treated with 2–10 mg/ml of the polyanion, polystyrene sulfonate (PSS). The gonial cell nuclei decondensed and after 15 minutes they became uniformly granular and similar in appearance to wholly euchromatic nuclei. When testis expiants were incubated with PSS (2–10 mg/ml) for from 15 to 120 minutes, all stages of deheterochromatization were recovered. The Feulgen reaction revealed that the uniform granules contained DNA; methyl-green-thionin staining indicated that the nucleolus contained RNA. When tritiated uridine was added after 15 minutes of PSS and then incubation continued, autoradiography revealed incorporation into euchromatin and decondensing heterochromatin. Incorporation of uridine increased with dosage of PSS up to 4 mg/ml. PSS (20 mg/ml) was toxic to the cells: They incorporated no uridine and were badly damaged. RNAase treated controls were also devoid of label.—PSS treated cells showed a negative alkaline-fast-green reaction for histone. In vitro a complex was formed between calf thymus histone and PSS which was soluble only above pH 8.5, but not separable on a Dowex acetate ion exchange column. These findings suggest that, probably by disrupting the structure of the DNA-histone complex, polystyrene sulfonate brings about structural decondensation of heterochromatin and enables it (and euchromatin) to incorporate tritiated uridine into RNA at an increased rate.
Automatic brain tumor segmentation

A system that automatically segments and labels complete glioblastoma-multiform tumor volumes in magnetic resonance images of the human brain is presented. The magnetic resonance images consist of three feature images (T1- weighted, proton density, T2-weighted) and are processed by a system which integrates knowledge-based techniques with multispectral analysis and is independent of a particular magnetic resonance scanning protocol. Initial segmentation is performed by an unsupervised clustering algorithm. The segmented image, along with cluster centers for each class are provided to a rule-based expert system which extracts the intra-cranial region. Multispectral histogram analysis separates suspected tumor from the rest of the intra-cranial region, with region analysis used in performing the final tumor labeling. This system has been trained on eleven volume data sets and tested on twenty-two unseen volume data sets acquired from a single magnetic resonance imaging system. The knowledge-based tumor segmentation was compared with radiologist-verified `ground truth' tumor volumes and results generated by a supervised fuzzy clustering algorithm. The results of this system generally correspond well to ground truth, both on a per slice basis and more importantly in tracking total tumor volume during treatment over time.