cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differential Induction of mRNAs for the Glycolytic and Ethanolic Fermentative Pathways by Hypoxia and Anoxia in Maize Seedlings

Fructose-1,6-biphosphate aldolase (ALD) and enolase (ENO) from the glycolytic pathway and pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) and alcohol dehydrogenase 2 (ADH2) from the ethanolic fermentative pathway, are enzymes previously identified as among those synthesized selectively in O2-deficient roots of maize (Zea mays L.). The present study measured levels of transcripts representing these two pathways in 5-mm root tips, root axes (the remainder of the primary seminal root), and shoots of maize seedlings to determine how closely both pathways were co-induced and how they were modulated by changes in O2 concentration. In hypoxic seedlings with the roots in solution sparged with 5% (v/v) O2 (balance N2) and the shoots in the same gaseous atmosphere, mRNAs for Pdc1 and Adh2 in root tips both increased about 15-fold during the first 12 h, followed by a decline toward initial levels by 18 to 24h. Message levels for Ald1 and Eno1 showed only small changes during hypoxia. When expression was examined under anoxia, the extent to which all four mRNAs increased in different tissues depended on whether the seedlings had been previously acclimated to hypoxia or were anoxically shocked. The results show that although all the genes examined increased expression during hypoxia and/or anoxia, they differed in the rapidity and magnitude of the response and in the time to reach maximal message levels: there was no common pattern of change of message levels for the glycolytic or for the fermantative enzymes.
Cyclooxygenase mediated airway response to leukotriene D4 in the cat.

Abstract The effects of leukotriene D4 (LTD4) on pulmonary mechanics were investigated in anesthetized, paralyzed cats under conditions of controlled ventilation. Intravenous injections of LTD4 in doses of 3, 10, and 30 μg caused significant increases in transpulmonary pressure (PTP) and lung resistance (RL) while decreasing dynamic compliance (Cdyn). LTD4 also increased systemic arterial pressure (PA0). The changes in PTP, RL, and Cdyn in response to LTD4 were blocked by sodium meclofenamate, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. However, there was no significant change in the increase in PA0 following cyclooxygenase blockade. U 46619, a thromboxane mimic, was 30 to 100 times more potent than LTD4 in increasing PTP, RL and decreasing Cdyn in the cat. These data show that LTD4 has significant smooth muscle constrictor activity in central airways as well as peripheral portions of the feline lung. In addition, these data suggest that in the cat the actions of intravenously administered LTD4 on lung mechanics are mediated by release of cyclooxygenase products while the systemic pressor effects are not dependent upon the integrity of the cyclooxygenase pathway.
Transition-State Metal Aryl Bond Stability Determines Regioselectivity in Palladium Acetate Mediated C–H Bond Activation of Heteroarenes

Density functional calculations reveal that the stability of developing metal aryl bonds in Pd(II)-acetate C–H activation transition states determines regioselectivity in arene and heteroarene compounds. This kinetic–thermodynamic connection explains the general preference for activation of the strongest C–H bond and provides the possibility for regioselectivity prediction.
BL Lacertae variability and superluminal motion via a helical filament/shock interface

The combination of a helical filament found by VLA observations at kpc scales in the M87 jet by Hardee, Owen, and Cornwell (1989) with a shock propagating down a jet suggests a kinematical model that could explain much of the flux variation in sources where the jet is aligned almost directly toward the observer, such as BL Lacertae objects. This model also naturally generates a superluminal pattern speed. The assumptions made by a first-order approximate model are discussed. Reasonable values for jet opening angle, viewing angle, shock speed, and radiative particle speed are used to match the model both to flux variations and superluminal motion of BL Lacertae itself with reasonable success. 33 refs.
FTIR Microspectroscopic Analysis of Human Osteonal Bone

Fourier Transform Infrared Microspectroscopy (FTIRM) has been used to study the changes in mineral and matrix content and composition in replicate biopsies of nonosteoporotic human osteonal bone. Spectral maps in four orthogonal directions (in 10 microm steps) from the centers towards the peripheries of individual osteons were obtained from iliac crest biopsies of two necropsy cases. Mineral to matrix ratios, calculated from the ratio of integrated areas of the phosphate nu1,nu3 band at 900-1200 cm-1 to the amide I band at 1585-1725 cm-1, increased from the center to the periphery of the osteon. The total carbonate (based on the nu2 band at approximately 850-900 cm-1) to phosphate nu1,nu3 ratio decreased as the mineral to matrix ratio increased. Analysis of the nu2 CO32- band with a combination of second-derivative spectroscopy and curve fitting revealed a decrease in "labile" carbonate, a slight decrease in Type A and a slight increase in Type B carbonate from the center to the periphery of the osteon. Similar analysis of the components of the nu1,nu3 phosphate band with a combination of second-derivative spectroscopy and curve fitting revealed the presence of 11 major underlying moieties. These components were assigned by comparison with published frequencies for apatite and acid-phosphate containing calcium phosphates. The most consistent variations were alterations in the relative percent areas of bands at approximately 1020 and approximately 1030 cm-1, which had previously been assigned to nonstoichiometric and stoichiometric apatites, respectively. This ratio was used as an index of variation in crystal perfection throughout the osteon. This ratio decreased as the mineral to matrix ratio increased. The reproducibility of these parameters at multiple sites in multiple biopsies suggests their applicability for the analysis of mineral changes in disease.
Emotional reactions of house officers to patients with anorexia nervosa, diabetes, and obesity

The authors present the results of a preliminary study measuring dysphoria in house officers toward patients with anorexia nervosa, diabetes, and obesity. Case vignettes are presented to demonstrate how negative affects in clinicians can interfere with the delivery of goal clinical care. Patients with anorexia nervosa tended to generate more anger, stress, and helplessness in house officers than other groups of patients did. Hypotheses are presented to explain those findings and questions are posed to stimulate future research.
Effects of Sex, Culture, and Support Type on Perceptions of Spousal Social Support: An Assessment of the “Support Gap” Hypothesis in Early Marriage

Several writers have suggested that a “support gap” characterizes modern marriages, with women receiving less support from their spouses than men receive from theirs. Although this support gap hypothesis (SGH) is used increasingly to explain marital interaction and satisfaction, there have been few rigorous evaluations of this hypothesis. In particular, existing research on the support gap has not systematically considered (a) different types of social support; (b) differences in provided vs. received support; (c) differences in reported levels of support desire, experience, and satisfaction; or (d) differences in distinct cultural groups with respect to social support in marriage. The present study provided a multidimensional assessment of desired and experienced spousal social support. Participants were recently married men and women (100 Americans and 102 Chinese) who completed questionnaires providing assessments of desired and experienced levels of spousal support for each of 5 support types. Men and women did not differ systematically with respect to the levels of support they experienced from their spouses; however, women reported desiring significantly higher levels of support from their spouses than did men for all 5 types of support. Evaluation of support satisfaction indicated that both American and Chinese women experience gaps with respect to emotional and esteem support; Chinese women additionally experience a gap in network support. These results specify the nature of marital support gaps much more precisely than previous work and suggest several issues to be addressed in future work.
Calcium uptake in glycerol-extracted rabbit psoas muscle fibers. II. Electron microscopic localization of uptake sites.

An effort has been made to ascertain the site of calcium uptake in rabbit psoas muscle by electron microscopy. Following a brief glycerol extraction, small groups of fibers were exposed in a suitable electrolyte environment to calcium and ATP. Conditions were such that calcium was accumulated as an insoluble oxalate salt. Conventional preparatory procedures for electron microscopy were modified so that the calcium oxalate deposits were retained in situ in ultrathin sections. These were found localized in the longitudinal component of the sarcoplasmic reticulum including the terminal dilatations which form the outer elements of the triads. The possible participation of the intermediate element of the triad in the uptake of calcium could not be determined. The results are regarded as direct evidence that the sarcoplasmic reticulum is intimately concerned with the uptake and release of calcium associated with the contraction-relaxation cycle.
Matrix functions and applications: Part III — Applications of matrices to systems analysis

3.1 Mathematical models of systems By definition, a system is a collection of discrete components, each having certain definable characteristics, together with a prescribed pattern of interconnections or interrelations. Components of a system may be pieces of physical hardware — such as a hydraulic servo valve, an amplifier, a two-terminal inductor, or a three-terminal transistor — or they may represent the less precisely defined components encountered in socioeconomic or biological systems. In any case, the system can be represented schematically by a diagram such as that shown in Fig. 1, where a point of contact between any two regions represents a junction or interface between two components, and is referred to as a terminal of the components.
C. S. Rafinesque’s North American vascular plants at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia

Constantine Samuel Rafinesque (1783–1840) proposed about 2700 generic names and over 6700 binomials in approximately 1000 known publications. His herbarium at one time supposedly contained some 50,000 specimens, but after his death part of it was destroyed by rats, and Elias Durand, who eventually purchased the collection, discarded virtually all of the specimens. Because of these circumstances, plant taxonomists have had difficulty in typifying Rafinesque’s names. This paper summarizes the information on the labels of 275 specimens of Rafinesque’s vascular plants from the United States and Canada that are known to exist at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. These specimens come from four sources: (1) Rafinesque’s own herbarium, (2) Charles Wilkins Short’s herbarium, (3) the William Hembel collection, and (4) the herbarium of Rev. Lewis David von Schweinitz. Of the 275 specimens still extant, 51 (18.5%) are considered to be possible types. These type specimens are enumerated with (1) the complete data on the specimen, (2) the original source herbarium, and in most cases (3) the current accepted name of the taxon.
Ultrastructural localization of spicule matrix proteins in normal and metalloproteinase inhibitor‐treated sea urchin primary mesenchyme cells

Studies of the sea urchin larval skeleton have contributed greatly to our understanding of the process of biomineralization. In this study we have undertaken an investigation of the morphology of skeleton formation and the localization of proteins involved in the process of spicule formation at the electron microscope level. Sea urchin primary mesenchyme cells undergo a number of morphological changes as they synthesize the larval skeleton. They form a large spicule compartment that surrounds the growing spicule and, as spicule formation comes to an end, the density of the cytoplasm decreases. Inhibition of spicule formation by specific matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors or serum deprivation has some subtle effects on the morphology of cells and causes the accumulation of specific classes of vesicles. We have localized proteins of the organic matrix of the spicule and found that one protein, SM30, is localized to the Golgi apparatus and transport vesicles in the cytoplasm as well as throughout the occluded protein matrix of the spicule itself. This localization suggests that SM30 is an important structural protein in the spicule. Another spicule matrix protein, SM50, has a similar cytoplasmic localization, but in the spicule much of it is localized at the periphery of the spicule compartment, and consequently it may play a role in the assembly of new material onto the growing spicule or in the maintenance of the integrity of the matrix surrounding the spicule.
Evaluation of topical anti-inflammatory steroid formulations in an Arthus model of inflammation.

Formulations of a number of steroids were evaluated after topical application in a reversed passive Arthus test (RPA) in rabbits. Four 21-chlorosteroids in the same cream base were investigated. The preparations of SQ 18.566 (halcinonide) and SQ 20,811 showed anti-edema activity, but those of SQ 15,361 and SQ 20,589 were less active. Ointment formulations of halcinonide also reduced edema in the RPA. These results, coupled with previously reported clinical data, suggest that the RPA might be utilized to distinguish good from poor formulations of anti-inflammatory steroids prior to screening tests or clinical trials in humans.
Comparison of identification systems for Staphylococcus epidermidis and other coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species

Abstract Three commercially available systems (API Staph-Trac, API 20GP, and Vitek GPI), used to identify coagulase-negative staphylococci, were evaluated against 277 bloodstream isolates, including 94 isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis and 183 isolates of other coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species. The conventional method of Kloos and Schleifer served as the reference method. Controls included 14 ATCC type culture strains of coagulase-negative staphylococci. The API Staph-Trac system showed the highest rate of agreement with reference method, correctly identifying 73% of the isolates. The Vitek GPI System had an overall rate of agreement of 67% and the API 20GP system correctly identified 61%. The API Staph-Trac system correctly identified 94% of the isolates of S. epidermidis compared with 64% by both Vitek GPI and API 20GP. The most common error for both Vitek GPI and API 20GP systems was the failure to identify organisms contained within the database of the systems. Because none of the tested commercial identification systems identified "non-epidermidis " coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species with a high degree of accuracy, the systems need to be markedly improved or new systems developed.
Expression and Processing of a Hormonally Regulated β-Expansin from Soybean

Expansin proteins are essential components of acid-induced cell wall loosening in plants. β-Expansins, which constitute a subfamily of related expansin proteins, include the group I grass pollen allergens. To provide a better description of β-expansin expression, we have characterized a cytokinin-inducible β-expansin from soybean (Glycine max cv Mandarin) called Cim1. Our results demonstrate that the hormones cytokinin and auxin act synergistically to induce the accumulation and proteolytic processing of Cim1. Carboxyl terminal truncation of a 35-kD form of Cim1 is predicted to remove the putative cellulose binding domain from the amino terminal cysteine-rich domain, resulting in a 20-kD form of the protein. Furthermore, the identical amino termini of the 35- and 20-kD forms of Cim1 correspond to a position 11 amino acids downstream of the predicted signal sequence cleavage site, suggesting proteolysis of a short amino terminal propeptide after removal of the signal peptide. This propeptide fragment contains a consensus site for N-glycosylation and our data suggest that it is glycosylated by a tunicamycin-sensitive mechanism in cultured soybean cells. The onset of Cim1 expression correlates with increased growth of soybean cultures. Ultimately, Cim1 is rapidly and specifically proteolyzed as soybean cultures reach stationary phase. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that β-expansin proteins are extensively modified by post-translational N-glycosylation and proteolysis.
Raising Consciousness About Women's Groups: Process and Outcome Research:

Although therapy is a misnomer for consciousness-raising (CR) groups, some criterion for “therapeutic” or desirable outcome is necessary for evaluating clinical and social psychological change in the CR format. Quantitative and non-quantitative process and outcome findings are reviewed, and implications for theory, research and practice are discussed. Women in CR groups give testimony to their global effectiveness in fostering personal development as well as political awareness. Empirical findings likewise support the notion of the CR group as a potentiator of pro-feminist attitudes. However, those data are equivocal with regard to the formulation that any such liberalization of sociopolitical beliefs promotes personal growth and self-esteem.
On the rate-distortion performance and computational efficiency of the Karhunen-Loeve transform for lossy data compression

We examine the rate-distortion performance and computational complexity of linear transforms for lossy data compression. The goal is to better understand the performance/complexity tradeoffs associated with using the Karhunen-Loeve transform (KLT) and its fast approximations. Since the optimal transform for transform coding is unknown in general, we investigate the performance penalties associated with using the KLT by examining cases where the KLT fails, developing a new transform that corrects the KLT's failures in those examples, and then empirically testing the performance difference between this new transform and the KLT. Experiments demonstrate that while the worst KLT can yield transform coding performance at least 3 dB worse than that of alternative block transforms, the performance penalty associated with using the KLT on real data sets seems to be significantly smaller, giving at most 0.5 dB difference in our experiments. The KLT and its fast variations studied here range in complexity requirements from O(n/sup 2/) to O(n log n) in coding vectors of dimension n. We empirically investigate the rate-distortion performance tradeoffs associated with traversing this range of options. For example, an algorithm with complexity O(n/sup 3/2/) and memory O(n) gives 0.4 dB performance loss relative to the full KLT in our image compression experiments.
Computational coevolution of antiviral drug resistance

An understanding of antiviral drug resistance is important in the design of effective drugs. Comprehensive features of the interaction between drug designs and resistance mutations are difficult to study experimentally because of the very large numbers of drugs and mutants involved. We describe a computational framework for studying antiviral drug resistance. Data on HIV-1 protease are used to derive an approximate model that predicts interaction of a wide range of mutant forms of the protease with a broad class of protease inhibitors. An algorithm based on competitive coevolution is used to find highly resistant mutant forms of the protease, and effective inhibitors against such mutants, in the context of the model. We use this method to characterize general features of inhibitors that are effective in overcoming resistance, and to study related issues of selection pathways, cross-resistance, and combination therapies.
Cardiovascular effects elicited by central administration of physostigmine via M2 muscarinic receptors in conscious cats.

The cardiovascular effects of an intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of physostigmine were studied using conscious cats. Physostigmine (5-25 /xg: 5 /xl) caused a dose-dependent increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR). The highest dose (25/~g) increased MAP and HR by 32 + 3 mmHg and 45 + 5 beats/min, respectively (n = 5). Pre-administration of the muscarinic receptor antagonist, atropine (25 /~g; i.c.v.) blocked the effects of physostigmine (25 /xg; i.c.v.). Also, the pre-administration of the M 2 muscarinic antagonist, methoctramine (25 /~g; i.c.v.), antagonized the cardiovascular effects of physostigmine without altering the baseline variables. However, the M 1 muscarinic antagonist, pirenzepine (100/xg; i.c.v.) did not alter baseline MAP or HR, and also failed to inhibit the cardiovascular responses to physostigmine. Similarly, the M 3 muscarinic blocker, 4-diphenyl-acetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide (50 Izg; i.c.v.), neither changed baseline cardiovascular variables nor blocked the effects of physostigmine. When the same cats were anesthetized with intravenous injection of sodium pentobarbital (25-30 mg/kg), physostigmine (25/zg; i.c.v.) evoked a decrease in MAP and HR of 13 + 6 mmHg and 15 + 6 bpm, respectively (n = 5). These results demonstrate that the increases in MAP and HR to the i.c.v, administration of physostigmine in conscious cats are possibly mediated through stimulation of central M 2 muscarinic receptors. In addition, anesthesia reverses the effects elicited by the central administration of physostigmine to a decrease in MAP and HR.
Racial Threat and Opposition to the Re-Enfranchisement of Ex-Felons

Abstract: Prior research demonstrates that racial threat is related to the time, place and severity of disenfranchisement laws for ex-felons. This study builds on that work by examining whether perceived racial threat helps to account for public opposition to the abolition of disenfranchisement policies. To do this, we draw on interview data from a survey of 1,575 Florida adults randomly sampled in 2005. Perceived racial composition of neighborhood and the perceived involvement of blacks in several crimes – the racial typification of crime – are our measures of perceived racial threat. Perceived racial composition is unrelated to opposition to re-enfranchisement of ex-felons. But the racial typification of crime significantly predicts that opposition, independent of the effects of general punitiveness, conservatism, and other predictors. Among white respondents that relationship is strongest for those who are liberal/moderate and generally less punitive and is not effected by varying levels of racial threat measured at macro-social levels.
Quantitative analysis of PMR‐15 polyimide resin by HPLC

The concentration of individual components and of total solids of 50 wt pct PMR-15 resin solutions was determined using reverse-phase HPLC to within + or - 8 percent accuracy. Acid impurities, the major source of impurities in 3,3', 4,4'-benzophenonetetracarboxylic acid (BTDE), were eliminated by recrystallizing the BTDE prior to esterification. Triester formation was not a problem because of the high rate of esterification of the anhydride relative to that of the carboxylic acid. Aging of PMR-15 resin solutions resulted in gradual formation of the mononadimide and bisnadimide of 4,4'-methylenedianiline, with the BTDE concentration remaining constant. Similar chemical reactions occurred at a reduced rate in dried films of PMR-15 resin.
Biological Database Integration

Many biomedical databases have rapidly become a central part of knowledge discovery in numerous fields including genomics, proteomics, and drug design. These databases are distributed, heterogeneous, and autonomous. This article by presenting a brief overview of some widely used databases to motivate the need for the integration of the distributed biological databases. Supporting this integration faces numerous challenges including various levels of heterogeneity, limited accessibility and redundancy, or conflicts in the data. These challenges are discussed, and different approaches to addressing these issues are presented. The article also includes a comparison among some integration systems that have been proposed for biological databases. Keywords: multi-databases; ontology; schema; integration
Design of Enzymatically Cleavable Prodrugs of a Potent Platinum‐Containing Anticancer Agent

Using a versatile synthetic approach, a new class of potential ester prodrugs of highly potent, but systemically too toxic, platinum–acridine anticancer agents was generated. The new hybrids contain a hydroxyl group, which has been masked with a cleavable lipophilic acyl moiety. Both butanoic (butyric) and bulkier 2-propanepentanoic (valproic) esters were introduced. The goals of this design were to improve the drug-like properties (e.g., logD) and to reduce the systemic toxicity of the pharmacophore. Two distinct pathways by which the target compounds undergo effective ester hydrolysis, the proposed activating step, have been confirmed: platinum-assisted, self-immolative ester cleavage in a low-chloride environment (LC-ESMS, NMR spectroscopy) and enzymatic cleavage by human carboxylesterase-2 (hCES-2) (LC-ESMS). The valproic acid ester derivatives are the first example of a metal-containing agent cleavable by the pro-drug-converting enzyme. They show excellent chemical stability and reduced systemic toxicity. Preliminary results from screening in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines (A549, NCI-H1435) suggest that the mechanism of the valproic esters may involve intracellular deesterification.
Security and Insecurity of Wireless Networks

This chapter discusses some popular approaches in providing wireless network security. Several security features supported by popular wireless standards are presented. Performance factors that are traded off by these standards for creating and maintaining secure communications are explained. Finally, some known and potential security vulnerabilities in current wireless standards are presented along with some challenges and open issues concerning future wireless networks.
The Dual Career Couple: Concerns, Benefits, and Counseling Implications

A comprehensive conceptualization of concerns and benefits experienced by dual career couples is presented. Counseling implications are provided to address the concerns. Counselors are asked to expand their roles to help couples challenge unquestioned societal values and practices and uniquely define their own standards for success in career and family roles.
A Procedure for Decomposing the Myoelectric Signal Into Its Constituent Action Potentials - Part I: Technique, Theory, and Implementation

A technique has been developed which enables the decomposition (separation) of a myoelectric signal into its constituent motor unit action potential trains. It consists of a multichannel (via one electrode) myoelectric signal recording procedure, a data compression algorithm, a digital filtering algorithm, and a hybrid visual-computer decomposition scheme. The algorithms have been implemented on a PDP 11/34 computer. Of the four major segments of the technique, the decomposition scheme is by far the most involved. The decomposition algorithm uses a-sophisticated template matching routine and details of the firing statistics of the motor units to identify motor unit action potentials in the myoelectric signal, even when they are super-imposed with other motor unit action potentials. In general, the algorithms of the decomposition scheme do not run automatically. They require input from the human operator to maintain reliability and accuracy during a decomposition.
Using fluorodeoxythymidine to monitor anti-EGFR inhibitor therapy in squamous cell carcinoma xenografts

Defining response to therapy by traditional anatomic imaging of tumor size requires serial observations over many months. In contrast, nucleoside analog radiopharmaceuticals that are being developed for noninvasive imaging of tumor cell proliferation have significant potential for showing tumor response within days to weeks of initiating therapy. One investigational radiopharmaceutical that is seeing increased use in cancer research is the proliferation-specific positron emission tomography (PET) ligand 3′-18F-fluoro-3′-deoxy-fluorothymidine (18F-FLT). Several clinical trials have demonstrated that 18F-FLT can be used to image a variety of tumor types, and there is a strong correlation between the extent of FLT uptake and the proliferation index in individual tumors.1–4 FLT enters cells through active and passive nucleoside transport mechanisms and is subsequently phosphorylated by thymidine kinase-1 (TK1).5,6 The resulting negative charge of FLT-monophosphate prevents efflux out of the cell, and this TK1-mediated phosphorylation reaction is the rate-limiting step involved in FLT cellular uptake/retention.7,8 Consistent with this, in vitro studies have correlated TK1 expression levels with the extent of cellular FLT retention.9,10 Although TK1 is not a specific proliferation marker, TK1 is regulated within the cell cycle,11 and the extent of FLT uptake within a tumor usually reflects the fraction of tumor cells in S-phase where TK1 expression is highest. Because TK1 expression and FLT tumor uptake should be suppressed following pharmacologic inhibition of tumor proliferation, nucleoside analogs which act as reporters of TK1 activity may be suitable for assessing the antiproliferative effects of a variety of molecularly targeted therapeutics. Several epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors have demonstrated activity, either alone or in combination with conventional cytotoxic agents, in several tumor types, including colorectal, lung, and head and neck cancer. Unfortunately, only a minority of patients benefit from these molecularly targeted agents, and development of techniques to identify those patients most likely to benefit from a specific molecular therapy could facilitate the individualization of cancer therapy. In the current study, we have applied 18F-FLT PET imaging to monitor the effects of 2 clinically approved EGFR inhibitors: erlotinib, a small molecule EGFR kinase inhibitor, and cetuximab, an anti-EGFR therapeutic monoclonal antibody. The current study demonstrates that EGFR inhibitor therapy suppresses FLT uptake as early as 3 days after initiating drug treatment and suggests that this technique could be used to identify patients who are responding to EGFR inhibitor therapy early during their course of therapy.
Ultrasensitive DNA Microarray Biosensing via in Situ RNA Transcription-Based Amplification and Nanoparticle-Enhanced SPR Imaging

DNA microarrays are invaluable tools for the detection and identification of nucleic acids in biosensing applications. The sensitivity and selectivity of multiplexed single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) surface bioaffinity sensing can be greatly enhanced when coupled to a surface enzymatic reaction. Herein we describe a novel method where the specific sequence-dependent adsorption of a target ssDNA template molecule onto an ssDNA-modified gold microarray is followed with the generation of multiple copies of ssRNA via in situ surface transcription by RNA polymerase. The RNA created on this "generator" element is then detected by specific adsorption onto a second adjacent "detector" element of ssDNA that is complementary to one end of the ssRNA transcript. SPR imaging is then used to detect the subsequent hybridization of cDNA-coated gold nanoparticles with the surface-bound RNA. This RNA transcription-based, dual element amplification method is used to detect ssDNA down to a concentration of 1 fM in a volume of 25 μL (25 zeptomoles).
Aerogeophysical measurements of collapse-prone hydrothermally altered zones at Mount Rainier volcano

Hydrothermally altered rocks can weaken volcanoes, increasing the potential for catastrophic sector collapses that can lead to destructive debris flows1. Evaluating the hazards associated with such alteration is difficult because alteration has been mapped on few active volcanoes1,2,3,4 and the distribution and severity of subsurface alteration is largely unknown on any active volcano. At Mount Rainier volcano (Washington, USA), collapses of hydrothermally altered edifice flanks have generated numerous extensive debris flows5,6 and future collapses could threaten areas that are now densely populated7. Preliminary geological mapping and remote-sensing data indicated that exposed alteration is contained in a dyke-controlled belt trending east–west that passes through the volcano's summit3,4,5,8. But here we present helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic data, combined with detailed geological mapping, to show that appreciable thicknesses of mostly buried hydrothermally altered rock lie mainly in the upper west flank of Mount Rainier. We identify this as the likely source for future large debris flows. But as negligible amounts of highly altered rock lie in the volcano's core, this might impede collapse retrogression and so limit the volumes and inundation areas of future debris flows. Our results demonstrate that high-resolution geophysical and geological observations can yield unprecedented views of the three-dimensional distribution of altered rock.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Left Ventricular Substrate Metabolism, Perfusion, and Dysfunction in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat Model of Hypertrophy Using Small-Animal PET/CT Imaging

Myocardial metabolic and perfusion imaging is a vital tool for understanding the physiologic consequences of heart failure. We used PET imaging to examine the longitudinal kinetics of 18F-FDG and 14(R,S)-18F-fluoro-6-thia-heptadecanoic acid (18F-FTHA) as analogs of glucose and fatty acid (FA) to quantify metabolic substrate shifts with the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) as a model of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and failure. Myocardial perfusion and left ventricular function were also investigated using a newly developed radiotracer 18F-fluorodihydrorotenol (18F-FDHROL). Methods: Longitudinal dynamic electrocardiogram-gated small-animal PET/CT studies were performed with 8 SHR and 8 normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats over their life cycle. We determined the myocardial influx rate constant for 18F-FDG and 18F-FTHA (KiFDG and KiFTHA, respectively) and the wash-in rate constant for 18F-FDHROL (K1FDHROL). 18F-FDHROL data were also used to quantify left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and end-diastolic volume (EDV). Blood samples were drawn to independently measure plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and free fatty acids (FFAs). Results:KiFDG and KiFTHA were higher in SHRs than WKY rats (P
Isolation and Characterization of an Antigenically Distinct 68- kd Protein from Nonviral Intracytoplasmic Inclusions in Boa Constrictors Chronically Infected with the Inclusion Body Disease Virus (IBDV: Retroviridae)

The relationship between a retroviral infection and the development of nonviral intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies was studied in a Boa constrictor model. Twelve juvenile age- and size-matched inclusion body disease (IBD)-negative boas were randomly divided into three groups. Each group was inoculated intraperitoneally with 1 ml of an IBD virus (IBDV)-infected liver homogenate or 1 ml of normal boa liver homogenate (sham-inoculated control) or was left untreated. All boas were monitored for development of IBD by daily examination and serial liver biopsy over 1 year. The 4 IBDV-inoculated boas became IBDV and inclusion positive by 10 weeks postinoculation. The average size and density of inclusion bodies increased with the duration of infection. Ultrastructurally, inclusion bodies <2 microm in diameter consisted of intracytoplasmic aggregates of granular electron-dense material that were not membrane limited. Larger inclusions (3-6 microm in diameter) were characterized as membrane-bound aggregates of amorphous to granular electron-dense material admixed with membranelike fragments. The sham-inoculated and untreated control snakes did not become inclusion or IBDV positive. Direct comparison of the protein electrophoretograms of IBDV-infected and normal boa tissues demonstrated a prominent 68-kd protein band unique to infected inclusion-positive tissues. Monoclonal antibodies directed against the 68-kd protein band specifically labeled inclusion bodies. The results of this study demonstrate that IBD inclusions represent an intracytoplasmic accumulation of an antigenically distinct IBDV-associated protein.
A dynamic CMOS multiplier for analog VLSI based on exponential pulse-decay modulation

A clocked, charge-based, CMOS modulator circuit is presented. The circuit, which performs a semilinear multiplication function, has applications in arrayed analog VLSI architectures such as parallel filters and neural network systems. The design presented is simple in structure, uses no operational amplifiers for the actual multiplication function, and uses no power in the static mode. Two-quadrant weighting of an input signal is accomplished by control of the magnitude and decay time of an exponential current pulse, resulting in the delivery of charge packets to a shared capacitive summing bus. The cell is modular in structure and can be fabricated in a standard CMOS process. An analytical derivation of the operation of the circuit, SPICE simulations, and MOSIS fabrication results are presented. The simulation studies indicate that the circuit is inherently tolerant to temperature effects, absolute device sizing errors, and clock-feedthrough transients. >
A Stereometric System for Measuring Human Motion

Although several photogrammetric systems are commercially available, their cost limits the application of photogrammetric human factors studies. This paper describes a relatively low cost system developed at Texas Tech University to be used in connection with biomechanics and human performance studies. A detailed description of the basic theoretical and laboratory investigations of the various parameters which influence the design, construction, and use of the system is presented. The adequacy and accuracy of the system were measured by conducting two verification tests under static and dynamic orientations. Typical acceleration and velocity curves for human hand motion, obtained by the system, are presented.
Olfactometer and Large Cage Evaluation of a Solid Phase Technology for the Controlled Production of CO2

New technology by ICA for chemical generation of carbon dioxide (CO2) was evaluated in olfactometer and large outdoor cage tests against laboratory-reared Aedes aegypti for potential use in mosquito surveillance programs. The proprietary CO2 generation system consists of a poly-TyvekH sachet containing 2 solid ingredients. Activated sachets immediately react to generate and release predictable levels of CO2 over time. In noncompetitive olfactometer studies, a freshly activated sachet attracted an average 6 SE of 96.6 6 0.9% of the available mosquitoes compared with 20.2 6 6.5% for 5 ml/min CO2 released from a compressed gas cylinder. In competitive tests, the sachet attracte d9 2.46 1.2% compared with 0.9 6 0.5% for the compressed gas. In the olfactometer, aged sachets attracted .90% of the available mosquitoes up to 8 h and ca. 27% 1 wk after activation. In the large outdoor cages, traps baited with activated sachets captured 2.2-5.4 times as many mosquitoes as unbaited traps, depending on time of testing after activation.
The Economic and Environmental Benefits From Distributed PV and Wind Technologies in a Colorado Community

This paper presents the results from an economic and environmental feasibility study on photovoltaic PV and wind technologies for a community of 200 homes in Superior, CO. The electrical load profile assumed for the community, the solar resources available, and the wind resources are defined. Specific PV modules and wind turbines are identified. A simulation model was created in HOMER software and the specific model assumptions and reasoning presented. The results of the simulation show that the baseline scenario of grid electricity use is the best economic decision under the status quo system parameters. However, it is shown through sensitivity analyses and requirements for specific levels of renewable energy use, that the best possible system for the community should not be evaluated solely on the status quo economic parameters. PV is shown to be the best renewable technology to consider while wind energy proves to be a poor choice for the specific location of the community. Emissions of CO2 and other pollutants are greatly reduced under the recommended system design.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
A space-based, high-resolution view of notable changes in urban NOx pollution around the world (2005–2014)

Nitrogen oxides (NOxNO+NO2) are produced during combustion processes and, thus may serve as a proxy for fossil fuel-based energy usage and committed greenhouse gases and other pollutants. We use high-resolution nitrogen dioxide (NO2) data from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) to analyze changes in urban NO2 levels around the world from 2005 to 2014, finding complex heterogeneity in the changes. We discuss several potential factors that seem to determine these NOx changes. First, environmental regulations resulted in large decreases. The only large increases in the United States may be associated with three areas of intensive energy activity. Second, elevated NO2 levels were observed over many Asian, tropical, and subtropical cities that experienced rapid economic growth. Two of the largest increases occurred over recently expanded petrochemical complexes in Jamnagar (India) and Daesan (Korea). Third, pollution transport from China possibly influenced the Republic of Korea and Japan, diminishing the impact of local pollution controls. However, in China, there were large decreases over Beijing, Shanghai, and the Pearl River Delta, which were likely associated with local emission control efforts. Fourth, civil unrest and its effect on energy usage may have resulted in lower NO2 levels in Libya, Iraq, and Syria. Fifth, spatial heterogeneity within several megacities may reflect mixed efforts to cope with air quality degradation. We also show the potential of high-resolution data for identifying NOx emission sources in regions with a complex mix of sources. Intensive monitoring of the world's tropical subtropical megacities will remain a priority, as their populations and emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases are expected to increase significantly.
Functional Morphology and Symmetry in the Odontocete Ear Complex.

Odontocete ear complexes or tympanoperiotic complexes (TPCs) were compared for asymmetry. Left and right TPCs were collected from one long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis) and one Amazon River dolphin (Inia geoffrensis). Asymmetry was assessed by volumetric comparisons of left and right TPCs and by visual comparison of superimposed models of the right TPC to a reflected mirror image of the left TPC. Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests were performed to compare the resonant frequencies of the TPCs as calculated by vibrational analysis. All analyses found slight differences between TPCs from the same specimen in contrast to the directional asymmetry in the nasal region of odontocete skulls.
In Search of Freedom and Justice: Thirty Years After the Free Chol Soo Lee Movement

This introductory essay provides the historical context for the Free Chol Soo Lee Movement on the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of Chol Soo Lee&s release from death row. Kim also provides background for contributions to the forum on the Chol Soo Lee case in the issue.
Effect of Sulindac and Erlotinib vs Placebo on Duodenal Neoplasia in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are at markedly increased risk for duodenal polyps and cancer. Surgical and endoscopic management of duodenal neoplasia is difficult and chemoprevention has not been successful. Objective To evaluate the effect of a combination of sulindac and erlotinib on duodenal adenoma regression in patients with FAP. Design, Setting, and Participants Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, enrolling 92 participants with FAP, conducted from July 2010 through June 2014 at Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. Interventions Participants with FAP were randomized to sulindac (150 mg) twice daily and erlotinib (75 mg) daily (n = 46) vs placebo (n = 46) for 6 months. Main Outcomes and Measures The total number and diameter of polyps in the proximal duodenum were mapped at baseline and 6 months. The primary outcome was change in total polyp burden at 6 months. Polyp burden was calculated as the sum of the diameters of polyps. The secondary outcomes were change in total duodenal polyp count, change in duodenal polyp burden or count stratified by genotype and initial polyp burden, and percentage of change from baseline in duodenal polyp burden. Results Ninety-two participants (mean age, 41 years [range, 24-55]; women, 56 [61%]) were randomized when the trial was stopped prematurely by recommendation of the external data and safety monitoring board because the second preplanned interim analysis met the prespecified stopping rule for superiority. Over 6 months, the median duodenal polyp burden in the sulindac-erlotinib group decreased from 29.0 mm to 19.5 mm (median change, −8.5 mm), and in the placebo group increased from 23.0 mm to 31.0 mm (median change, 8.0 mm), for a net difference of −19.0 mm (95% CI, −32.0 to −10.9; P P P Conclusions and Relevance Among participants with FAP, the use of sulindac and erlotinib compared with placebo resulted in a lower duodenal polyp burden after 6 months. Adverse events may limit the use of these medications at the doses used in this study. Further research is necessary to evaluate these preliminary findings in a larger study population with longer follow-up to determine whether the observed effects will result in improved clinical outcomes. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01187901
Diffusion Barriers for Mobile Ions in 256M DRAMs

In this study, we investigate the diffusion of mobile ions through thin PSG or SiN layers using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). The diffusivity of Na through either layer is about 100,000X slower than through SiO2. Hence, thin layers of these materials are effective barriers for short anneals at 400°C. However, there is significant diffusion of both Na and K through these layers at 550°C. This suggests that improved cleans will be required to remove mobile ion contamination after interconnect processes.
Life-Threatening Mannitol-Induced Hyperkalemia in Neurosurgical Patients.

Background Mannitol is the most commonly used intraoperative hypertonic solution in patients undergoing craniotomy. However, its use has been reported to be associated with hyperkalemia, which can occasionally be life threatening. Case Description and Literature Review In this report, we discuss the case of a patient who had intraoperative cardiac arrest secondary to mannitol-induced hyperkalemia during a craniotomy for tumor resection. In addition, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature concerning similar cases previously reported, as well as a discussion of the pathophysiology of mannitol-induced hyperkalemia. Review of the literature suggests that patients prone to this phenomenon are young and healthy individuals with normal preoperative and postoperative cardiopulmonary and renal functions. The literature also suggests that the total dose of mannitol, as well as its rate of infusion, may play a role in the development of this phenomenon. Conclusions Knowledge of the existence of mannitol-induced hyperkalemia is paramount for the neurosurgeon and the anesthesiologist, because early treatment with insulin and calcium can quickly restore normal cardiac rhythm and prevent intraoperative death.