cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automatic parallelization for symmetric shared-memory multiprocessors

The trend in workstation hardware is towards symmetric shared-memory multiprocessors (SMPs). User expectations are for (largely) automatic exploitation of parallelism on an SMP, similar to automatic exploitation of modern processor features such as caches and instruction scheduling.In this paper, we present our solution to automatic SMP parallelization. Our solution is unique in its robust support for unbalanced processor loads and nesting of parallel loops and parallel sections, in conjunction with its tight integration with high-order transformations for improved uniprocessor performance, so that the speedup due to parallelism is truly a multiplicative speedup over highly optimized uniprocessor execution times.
Building pathways for ovary organogenesis in the mouse embryo.

Despite its significant role in oocyte generation and hormone production in adulthood, the ovary, with regard to its formation, has received little attention compared to its male counterpart, the testis. With the exception of germ cells, which undergo a female-specific pattern of meiosis, morphological changes in the fetal ovary are subtle. Over the past 40 years, a number of hypotheses have been proposed for the organogenesis of the mammalian ovary. It was not until the turn of the millennium, thanks to the advancement of genetic and genomic approaches, that pathways for ovary organogenesis that consist of positive and negative regulators have started to emerge. Through the action of secreted factors (R-spondin1, WNT4, and follistatin) and transcription regulators (β-catenin and FOXL2), the developmental fate of the somatic cells is directed toward ovarian, while testicular components are suppressed. In this chapter, we review the history of studying ovary organogenesis in mammals and present the most recent discoveries using the mouse as the model organism.
The Influence of Comparative Advertising on Consumer Ethnocentrism in the American Automobile Market

This study explores the ability of comparative advertising featuring foreign and domestic automobile brands to influence consumer ethnocentric reactions as the advertisement is being processed. Consumer ethnocentrism is inherently comparative (e.g., American automobiles versus those imported from Japan), so lack of published research testing this influence on consumer decision making is surprising. Two major findings resulted: (1) theoretically, Shimp and Sharma’s (1987) CETSCALE can be modeled as one component of a Hierarchy-of-Effects dependent vector score using MANOVA, and (2) practically, advertising where a foreign sponsor names a domestic brand can result in an ethnocentric stimulus significantly influencing automobile brand Purchase Intentions.
From siloed data to linked data: Developing a social metadata repository

Although social data has been investigated and discussed regarding its impact on indexing and retrieval performance on the web, there has been little research conducted on storing or linking social data and identifying bibliographic relationships among social data for further use of social data. In this paper, we discuss our work in progress that aims to develop a social metadata repository which would be an important implication for making social data more valuable and reusable for searching and retrieval. We describe FRBR (Functional Requirements of Bibliographic Records) conceptual model's Entity-Relationship (ER) view on bibliographic relationships and demonstrate how social metadata are encoded in RDA (Resource Description and Access) and how the implicit bibliographic relationships of social data are explicitly represented as RDF (Resource Description Framework) triples (Subject –Predicates – Objects) with links to external sources. We believe that the shareable and linked metadata repository of social data is remarkably significant, not only because it supports the accessibility to related documents, but also because it is clarifying the implicit semantic relationships among social data.
Combining biological and chemical approaches for green synthesis of chemicals

Recent advances have allowed semi-synthetic production of complex pharmaceutical compounds and commodity chemicals by combining chemical and biological approaches. This approach offers several advantages including synthesis of chirally pure precursors for drugs, design of greener and more sustainable production routes for commodity chemicals by eliminating the use of hazardous chemicals and generation of waste and improving overall process efficiencies by reducing total number of steps involved in synthesis. In this review, we will discuss in detail the synthesis of three pharmaceuticals — simvastatin, artemisinin, and warfarin — and two commodity chemicals — β-methyl-δ-valerolactone and butadiene, all of which have wide applications in the pharmaceutical and polymer industry.
Why don't we observe improvements in consumption smoothing as countries get more financially integrated: Bridging theory and empirics

Abstract This study provides suggestive theoretical and empirical evidence that the productivity shock correlation between a country and the rest of the world may help explain why we do not observe more consumption smoothing as countries have become more financially liberalized.
Deciduous central incisor tooth development and coronal cementogenesis in cattle.

Abstract This study documents chronologically, growth and development of the bovine deciduous central incisor tooth from the earliest available stages of odontogenesis to exfoliation. Gross morphologic and histologic studies were carried out on 48 bovine mandibles. Three specimens were obtained at each monthly interval for 8 months of prenatal life and two specimens were obtained at several representative periods of postnatal life until 2 years of age. The following periods of deciduous central incisor tooth formation were defined: histoand morphodifferentiation, 3 months in utero; beginning of apposition and calcification, 4 months in utero; intra-oral eruption, 9 months in utero-birth; root formation complete, 6 months of age; and exfoliation, 2 years of age. Coronal cementum was found on the lingual surface of the deciduous incisor just prior to oral emergence while the tooth was still covered by a layer of tissue called the gingival sheath. Cementum was also first identified on the permanent incisor tooth crown at about 13 months of age. Coronal cementum was never observed overlying the reduced enamel epithelium, but was only seen in areas where the enamel surface of the crowns were exposed to the connective tissue of the surrounding dental sac. Continuity of root and coronal cementum was observed on the lingual surface of the developing permanent incisor tooth, thus suggesting similar cellular precursors for both structures.
Pretreatment effect studies with a precipitated iron Fischer–Tropsch catalyst in a slurry reactor

Abstract Effects of pretreatment procedures, using H2, CO, and syngas (H2/CO = 2/3) as reductants, on the performance (activity, selectivity and stability with time) of a precipitated iron catalyst (100 Fe/3 Cu/4 K/16 SiO2 on a mass basis) during Fischer–Tropsch (F–T) synthesis were studied in a stirred tank slurry reactor. The catalyst reduced with hydrogen to magnetite only reached its steady state activity faster than the catalyst partially reduced to metallic iron (2 h versus 4 h). Activity of the catalyst partially reduced to metallic iron under mild reduction conditions (250°C for 4 h) was about 40% higher than that of the catalyst reduced at 280°C for 8 h. The steady state activities of the catalyst reduced to magnetite only (240°C for 2 h) and of the unreduced catalyst were the same as that of the catalyst partially reduced to metallic iron at 280°C for 8 h. Initial activity of the CO activated catalyst (280°C for 8 h) was relatively low, and increased with time, reaching a steady state level at about 50 h on stream. However, its steady state activity was the highest among all the pretreatment procedures used. Methane and gaseous hydrocarbon selectivities on the hydrogen reduced and the unreduced catalyst increased with time before reaching a steady state, whereas the opposite trend was observed on the CO and the syngas (280°C for 8 h) activated catalysts. The catalyst which was initially in an oxide form (unreduced catalyst and catalyst reduced to magnetite) had lower gaseous hydrocarbon selectivities than the catalyst partially reduced to α-Fe. The unreduced catalyst had the lowest gaseous hydrocarbon selectivity, whereas the syngas activated catalyst had the highest. Total olefin and 1-olefin contents decreased in the following order: CO activated ≈ unreduced > syngas > H2 reduced.
Relativistic Distorted-Wave Collision Strengths and Oscillator Strengths for the Δn= 0 Transitions withn= 2 in C-Like Ions with 9 ≤Z≤ 54

Relativistic distorted-wave collision strengths have been calculated for the Δn= 0 transitions withn= 2 in C-like ions with nuclear charge numberZin the range 9 ≤Z≤ 54. The calculations were made for the six final, or scattered, electron energiesE′ = 0.03, 0.08, 0.20, 0.42, 0.80, and 1.40, whereE′ is in units ofZ2effRydbergs withZeff= Z− 4.17. In addition, the transition energies and electric dipole oscillator strengths are given. To our knowledge the present work is the first publication of the results of fully relativistic calculations of the collision strengths for excitation of highly charged C-like ions.
An application of the theorem of relaxed control to the problem of increasing catalyst selectivity

The approximation theorem of relaxed control has an interesting application in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. For some reaction mechanisms, the selectivity of a catalyst can be increased significantly by operating the catalyst dynamically rather than in the steady state.
Modeling motoneurons after spinal cord injury: persistent inward currents and plateau potentials

A single-compartment conductance-based computational model to mimic the behavior of rat tail motoneurons after acute and chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) was developed. The model includes a calcium-dependent potassium current, I"K"("C"a"), that contributes to after hyperpolarizations. In the chronic SCI model, the presence of sodium and calcium persistent inward currents (PICs) causes plateau potentials resulting in prolonged self-sustained firing. The interaction between the calcium PIC and I"K"("C"a") affects the magnitude and duration of plateau potentials as well as the hysteresis seen during injected current ramps. The model responses mimic experimental observations and may explain the spasticity observed after chronic SCI.
Switchback Trials for More than Two Treatments

Summary To take better advantage of the high sensitivity of switch-back or double-reversal trials commonly used to compare two treatments and which have been extended to permit the comparison of three or more treatments, certain convenient and useful features have been added. Designs are given for 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9 treatments. The statistical analysis is outlined symbolically and is illustrated numerically with uniformity data. Missing value formulas are given.
The Race is Not Necessarily to the Swift: Validity of WISC-R Bonus Points for Speed

To investigate speed as a factor in WISC-R performance, scores of 66 high-scoring (IQ 120 + ) and 36 average-scoring (IQ < 120) children were examined in a clinic for gifted children. Although significant mean group differences were found on all subtests, they were only marginal for Coding, which depends strongly on speed. On the three subtests using speed bonus points, the high-scoring group gave more correct answers, but on only one, Block Design, was there a trend toward more bonus points for speed. The results are interpreted as casting serious doubt on the utility of speed bonuses in tests of general intelligence with gifted children.
Memory for temporal order and frequency of occurrence in detoxified alcoholics

The ability to retain temporal order (recency) and event frequency information was assessed in long-term alcoholics and in nonalcoholic control subjects. On the temporal recency task, the alcoholics were impaired when they were asked unexpectedly to judge how recently these stimuli had been presented. When subjects were aware that they would eventually be asked to make decisions about temporal order, the alcoholics evidenced significant difficulties only for the figural stimuli. On the task requiring judgements about the frequency of events, alcoholics demonstrated significant deficits only when they had to make unexpected judgements about figural stimuli. The implications of these findings for the neurological basis of alcoholics' cognitive deficits are discussed.
Avoiding-sequences with minimum sum

Abstract A circular sequence of positive integers of length n is a sequence of n terms in which the first and last are considered consecutive. For x≤n a positive integer, such a sequence is x-avoiding if no set of consecutive terms sums to x. We show that an x-avoiding circular sequence of length n satisfies a1+a2+⋯+an≥2n, and give a simple necessary and sufficient condition for equality. Minimizing sequences are exhibited when the minimum sum is known.
TCA cycle inactivation in Staphylococcus aureus alters nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells

Inactivation of the Staphylococcus aureus tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle delays the resolution of cutaneous ulcers in a mouse soft tissue infection model. In this study, it was observed that cutaneous lesions in mice infected with wild-type or isogenic aconitase mutant S. aureus strains contained comparable inflammatory infiltrates, suggesting the delayed resolution was independent of the recruitment of immune cells. These observations led us to hypothesize that staphylococcal metabolism can modulate the host immune response. Using an in vitro model system involving RAW 264.7 cells, the authors observed that cells cultured with S. aureus aconitase mutant strains produced significantly lower amounts of nitric oxide (NO•) and an inducible nitric oxide synthase as compared to those cells exposed to wild-type bacteria. Despite the decrease in NO• synthesis, the expression of antigen-presentation and costimulatory molecules was similar in cells cultured with wild-type and those cultured with aconitase mutant bacteria. The data suggest that staphylococci can evade innate immune responses and potentially enhance their ability to survive in infected hosts by altering their metabolism. This may also explain the occurrence of TCA cycle mutants in clinical S. aureus isolates.
Screening women for oral contraception: Can family history identify inherited thrombophilias?

OBJECTIVE: : Screening for inherited thrombophilias with laboratory tests is impractical before starting women on combined oral contraceptives. As an alternative some recommend eliciting a family history of venous thromboembolism. The validity of this approach however remains unclear. DATA SOURCES: : We sought all published reports that correlated a family history of venous thromboembolism with any thrombophilia confirmed by laboratory test. We used sequential overlapping computer searches including MeSH terms used for articles in PubMed a narrative search phrase in Google Scholar and then all "related" articles in PubMed for each article included without time or language limitations. This was supplemented by a search of www.clinicaltrials.gov. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: : The search yielded 10 reports. Information was sought without success from corresponding authors of four other reports that may have had relevant data. Most reports studied atypical high-prevalence referral populations. TABULATION INTEGRATION AND RESULTS: : Results were presented according to the MOOSE (Meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology) guidelines for systematic reviews of observational studies. The patient populations varied widely definitions of family history included first- or first- and second-degree relatives and the thrombophilias studied differed among these reports. Hence aggregation of results was not possible. Despite these differences all reports consistently documented poor validity of family history for detecting thrombophilias. Sensitivity ranged from 16% to 63% and positive predictive value from 6% to 50% for the various thrombophilias studied. In no study did family history meet the benchmark for a good test (sensitivity plus specificity greater than 150%). CONCLUSION: : Obtaining a family history of venous thromboembolism before starting combined oral contraceptives is not a valid means to detect a womans risk of thrombophilia. Even in high-prevalence populations in which the positive predictive value is increased a positive family history of venous thromboembolism was no better than flipping a coin in predicting thrombophilia.
Contraceptive availability to adolescents: do American values violate our most vulnerable?

Sexually active adolescents need contraceptives. Nearly half of all 15- to 18-year-olds have engaged in sexual activity before finishing high school and >70% are sexually active by the age of 20 years. The consequences of adolescents having unprotected sex are devastating. Availability of contraceptives for adolescents in the United States is affected by multiple factors including individuals knowledge about contraceptives access to services and supplies affordability complex social and moral attitudes and governmental policies and regulations. Efforts in the United States (unlike those in other developed countries) to address adolescent sex have been directed toward preventing teenage sex as opposed to preventing its adverse consequences. Abstinence-only programs violate the fundamental human right of adolescents to accurate and comprehensive sexual health information. Preventing the adverse consequences of unprotected adolescent sex requires a broad-based approach that begins with the recognition that adolescents are both valued and vulnerable. (excerpt)
Mutational Analysis of the Nuclease Domain of Escherichia coli Ribonuclease III. Identification of Conserved Acidic Residues that Are Important for Catalytic Function in Vitro

The ribonuclease III superfamily represents a structurally distinct group of double-strand-specific endonucleases with essential roles in RNA maturation, RNA decay, and gene silencing. Bacterial RNase III orthologs exhibit the simplest structures, with an N-terminal nuclease domain and a C-terminal double-stranded RNA-binding domain (dsRBD), and are active as homodimers. The nuclease domain contains conserved acidic amino acids, which in Escherichia coli RNase III are E38, E41, D45, E65, E100, D114, and E117. On the basis of a previously reported crystal structure of the nuclease domain of Aquifex aeolicus RNase III, the E41, D114, and E117 side chains of E. coli RNase III are expected to be coordinated to a divalent metal ion (Mg(2+) or Mn(2+)). It is shown here that the RNase III[E41A] and RNase III[D114A] mutants exhibit catalytic activities in vitro in 10 mM Mg(2+) buffer that are comparable to that of the wild-type enzyme. However, at 1 mM Mg(2+), the activities are significantly lower, which suggests a weakened affinity for metal. While RNase III[E41A] and RNase III[D114A] have K(Mg) values that are approximately 2.8-fold larger than the K(Mg) of RNase III (0.46 mM), the RNase III[E41A/D114A] double mutant has a K(Mg) of 39 mM, suggesting a redundant function for the two side chains. RNase III[E38A], RNase III[E65A], and RNase III[E100A] also require higher Mg(2+) concentrations for optimal activity, with RNase III[E100A] exhibiting the largest K(Mg). RNase III[D45A], RNase III[D45E], and RNase III[D45N] exhibit negligible activities, regardless of the Mg(2+) concentration, indicating a stringent functional requirement for an aspartate side chain. RNase III[D45E] activity is partially rescued by Mn(2+). The potential functions of the conserved acidic residues are discussed in the context of the crystallographic data and proposed catalytic mechanisms.
Drug delivery: Puncturing cells en masse.

Porous silicon nanoneedles efficiently puncture cell monolayers, delivering biomolecules into cells both in vitro and in vivo.
Induction of Embryogenic Divisions in Isolated Pollen Grains of Hyoscyamus niger in a Single-step Method

Summary A single-step method is described for the induction of embryogenic divisions in isolated pollen grains of Hyoscyamus niger . Pollen grains cultured on a filter paper support maintained on the basal medium with or without hormonal supplements formed multicellular embryoids by the division of the generative cell or of both generative and vegetative cells. The embryoids however did not differentiate into plantlets.
PLIF imaging of mean temperature and pressure in a supersonic bluff wake

Planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of seeded nitric oxide was used to obtain mean 2-D temperature and pressure fields in the near-wake region of a thick flat plate in a Mach 3 flow. A two-line ratio technique was used to obtain the temperature field, while an image obtained at the limit of low quenching rate was used to infer the pressure field. An analysis shows that these time-average measurements can suffer from significant weighted averaging bias errors in regions where there are large temperature fluctuations; however, these bias errors can be minimized by judicious selection of the absorption lines used. The resulting temperature field reveals the warm upstream boundary layer, the temperature jump across the recompression shocks and the expected minimum and maximum temperatures in the expansion and recirculation regions, respectively. The pressure measurements indicate a uniform low pressure in the base region, a rapid increase near reattachment, followed by a gradual approach to the free stream value farther downstream.
Effect of Ag–Au composition and acid concentration on dealloying front velocity and cracking during nanoporous gold formation

Abstract Nanoporous gold has many potential applications in various fields, including energy storage, catalysis, sensing and actuating. Dealloying of Ag–Au alloys under free corrosion conditions is a simple method to fabricate nanoporous gold. Here, we systematically investigate the dealloying rate of Ag–xAu alloy for a range of alloy compositions (x = 20–40 at.%) and nitric acid concentration (7.3–14.9 M) using in situ transmission X-ray microscopy. High-resolution in situ X-ray projections and ex situ tomographic reconstructions allow imaging of the dealloying front position during dealloying. The dealloying front velocity is constant with time, and depends exponentially on the alloy Ag/Au atomic ratio and the acid molar concentration. Only the leanest alloy, Ag–20 Au, shows a large macroscopic shrinkage in sample diameter (∼38%) after dealloying, which leads to crack nucleation and growth observed in real time during dealloying. Finite element modeling is used to estimate dealloying-induced stresses and strains, and sheds light on the cracks created by the diameter shrinkage.
Prolonged lymphocyte depletion by single-dose rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin and alemtuzumab in kidney transplantation

Abstract Although antibody induction has gained in popularity, two agents are rarely combined. We retrospectively analyzed peripheral lymphocyte phenotypes of renal transplant recipients who received induction therapy with a different antibody/combination: alemtuzumab(C1H), Thymoglobulin(rATG), daclizumab(Dac), rATG + C1H, and rATG + Dac. CD4+ T-cells were suppressed by C1H and rATG + C1H, as well as by rATG and rATG + Dac but to a lesser extent. The effect lasted for 3 years at around 40% of baseline values. CD8+ T-cells showed a similar trend but had a more rapid recovery to baseline. CD19+ B-cells were effectively suppressed for 2 months by C1H and rATG + C1H, and abruptly returned to baseline afterwards; suppression by rATG(7 doses) was modest but lasted longer. A higher proportion of CD56 + CD16+ Natural Killer cells in C1H treated patients suggested a relatively spared effect of C1H on this cell type. Low CD25+ T-cells by 5-dose Dac returned to baseline around 6 months, whereas rATG + C1H and rATG + Dac showed persistent effect. CD4 + CD25hi T-cells were suppressed by both rATG + C1H and rATG + Dac, but the initial proportion of CD4 + CD25hi T-cells among CD4+ T-cells and CD4 + CD25hi/CD4 + CD25lo ratio were significantly higher in rATG + C1H. Overall, with extensive and persistent lymphocyte suppression by a simple administration of agents, single-dose rATG + C1H induction can be an alternative in renal transplantation.
Effects of Redox Reagents and Arsenical Compounds on [3H]-Cytisine Binding to Immunoisolated Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors from Chick Brain Containing α4 β2 Subunits

All known nicotinic receptor alpha subunits include a conserved disulfide bond that is essential for function and is a site for labeling via biochemical modification. In an effort to develop a universal ligand for all subtypes of nicotinic receptors, we previously studied the effects of arsenylation with two compounds, p-aminophenyldichloroarsine (APA) and bromoacetyl-p-aminophenylarsenoxide (BAPA) on nicotinic receptors from Torpedo electroplax. Here we apply these reagents to immunoisolated receptors containing alpha 4, beta 2, and possibly other subunits from chick brain that bind [3H]cytisine with high affinity (KD approximately 5 nM). These are distinct from another receptor subtype that also binds [3H]cytisine and [3H]nicotine and can be arsenylated with APA, but instead contains alpha 5, beta 2, and probably other subunits. Reduction of alpha 4 beta 2 receptors with dithiothreitol blocked [3H]cytisine binding and this effect was reversed upon reoxidation by dithiobisnitrobenzoic acid. APA or BAPA prevented the dithiobisnitrobenzoic acid reactivation of dithiothreitol-treated receptors with IC50 values of 15 and 70 nM, respectively. However, the antiarsenical dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid restored function to APA- or BAPA- "arsenylated" receptors (EC50 approximately 100 microM). APA-treated receptors remained blocked for up to 24 h, but treatment with dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid at any time restored [3H]cytisine binding. APA treatment of reduced receptors protected against irreversible alkylation by bromoacetylcholine, indicating that arsenylation occurs at least in part in the agonist binding site. Thus, these reagents have similar effects on different nicotinic receptor subtypes from both muscle and nerves.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Control of snack food manufacturing systems

This article discusses the many challenges and possibilities in the snack food manufacturing industry, while illustrating the benefits of crossing discipline borders to benefit from and contribute toward cross-fertilization of ideas. In particular, this paper emphasizes on process monitoring and control solutions as well as the challenges of salty snack food processes
Nanoclusters of Iridium Oxide and of Rhodium Oxide Supported on MgO

MgO-supported Ir4 and Rh6, prepared from [Ir4(CO)12] and [Rh6(CO)16], respectively, on MgO, were partially oxidized at 323 K, with partial destruction of the metal frames, and reformed by treatment in H2. Oxidation at higher temperatures resulted in total oxidation of the clusters with breakup of the metal frames, and treatment in H2 led to near reconstruction of the metal clusters, but with some migration and aggregation. The results imply that the oxidized nanoclusters were site isolated on the support surface; this is the first report of oxide clusters of noble metals. The metal oxide clusters are catalytically active for CO oxidation.
Adrenal incidentalomas, 2003 to 2005: experience after publication of the National Institutes of Health consensus statement.

OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical outcomes and follow-up imaging characteristics for incidentally discovered adrenal nodules at a large metropolitan health care center, as well as compliance with National Institutes of Health guidelines for the evaluation of these lesions. METHODS Between October 2003 and June 2005, computed tomographic (CT) scanning performed at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates detected 165 adrenal nodules (incidentalomas) in 129 patients without extra-adrenal malignant lesions or evidence of adrenal hyperfunction. Nodule characteristics, including size at baseline, change in size at follow-up, CT attenuation values, biochemical data, and clinical outcomes, were analyzed. RESULTS Of the 165 adrenal incidentalomas, 96% were smaller than 4 cm. When attenuation values were determined, 65% were low (<10 Housfield units). Ninety-eight patients (76%) with 142 nodules (86% of all incidentalomas) had at least 1 follow-up CT scan. Of these 142 lesions, 20 (14%) changed significantly in size (grew or became smaller by 0.5 cm or more). Growth was detected within 12 months in 5 of the 7 lesions (71%) that grew. For 95% of patients, the adrenal nodule did not necessitate intervention, including change in medication or surgical treatment. Biochemical studies for adrenal hyperfunction were done in 39 of the overall 129 patients (30%), but in only 20 of 109 patients (18%) not seen by endocrinologists. CONCLUSION Most adrenal incidentalomas are benign, nonfunctional tumors. Growth typically occurs within 12 months after detection. Despite the 2002 National Institutes of Health guidelines, 82% of patients at our medical center with adrenal nodules who were not seen by endocrinologists did not have hormonal testing. More physician education about the evaluation of incidentalomas should be provided, and prospective studies to establish the appropriate duration of follow-up should be conducted.
Role of PET quantitation in the monitoring of cancer response to treatment: Review of approaches and human clinical trials.

Positron emission tomography (PET) measures of cancer metabolism and cellular proliferation are increasingly being studied as markers of cancer response to treatment, with the goal of using them as predictors of patient therapeutic outcomes—i.e., as surrogate outcome measures. The primary PET radiotracers so far used for monitoring response of cancer to treatment are 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) for studying abnormal energy metabolism and 18F-fluorothymidine (FLT) for examining cell proliferation. Both FDG and FLT PET quantitation of cancer response to treatment have been found to correlate with patient outcomes, mostly in single-center studies. The aim of this review is to summarize the impact of commonly selected PET quantitation methods on the ability of PET measures to quantitate cancer response to treatment. An understanding of the biochemistry and kinetics of FDG and FLT uptake and knowledge of the expected tracer uptake by cancerous processes relative to background uptake are required to select appropriate PET quantitation methods for trial testing for correlations between PET measures and patient outcome. PET measures may eventually serve as predictive biomarkers capable of guiding individualized treatment and improving patient outcomes and quality of life by early identification of ineffective therapies. PET can also potentially identify patients who would be good candidates for molecularly targeted drugs and monitor response to these personalized therapies.
Knowledge Strands: Enhancing Student Perception of Online Postings

An important component of student-centered learning is students' ability to connect to their own experiences and to build on their initial perspectives. In this collaborative project, two courses, one in foreign language and one in meteorology, use online postings and threaded discussions to guide the student in a self-study of progress, learning, and confidence.
Heart failure in 2013: Continue what we are doing to treat HF, but do it better

In 2013, clinical trials in heart failure focused on drugs and devices that might improve treatment of symptomatic patients beyond standard therapy. None achieved this aim. Therefore, future efforts should emphasize increased adherence to current, evidence-based therapy, and trials might better address efforts to prevent, rather than treat, heart failure.
Bimodal score distributions and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator: fact or artifact?

We examined Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) score distributions computed using item response theory (IRT) to assess the generalizability of earlier bimodality reports that have been cited in support of the "type" versus "trait" view of personality. Using the BILOG IRT program to score a sample of approximately 12,000 individuals who participated in leadership development programs, theta score distributions for the 4 dimensions of the MBTI computed using 10 (the BILOG default) versus 50 quadrature points were compared. Results indicated that past reports of bimodality were artifacts caused by BILOG's default use of a small number of quadrature points; when larger numbers of points were used, score distributions became strongly center-weighted. Although our findings are not supportive of the "type"-based hypothesis, the extremely high correlations between theta scores (rs > .996) suggest that no practical differences would be expected as a function of the number-of-quadrature-points decision.
Metal Pollutant Exposure and Behavior Disorders: Implications for School Practices

Childhood exposure to metal pollutants routinely encountered in the environment is an issue of importance to the field of behavior disorders. Metal pollutants at low levels, far below those associated with clinical metal poisoning, are associated with a spectrum of behavior disorders. This review addresses a set of environmental and diet variables to reduce metal exposure which are potentially within the realm of control of child, parent, and health or educational professional working with the family.
Specificity of an Intestinal Lipase for Monoglycerides.

Abstract : An enzyme found in the homogenates of rat intestinal mucosa has been demonstrated to be specific for the hydrolysis of 1- and 2-monoglycerides. During a two hour incubation at 37 C, both 1- and 2-monoglycerides are hydrolyzed to a comparable extent (17-19%). Under the same conditions, diand triglycerides undergo little or no hydrolysis. This enzyme appears to be different from most enzymes previously reported in the intestinal mucosa or succus entericus. The enzymes previously reported have their major activity directed toward the hydrolysis of triglycerides only or hydrolyze mono-, di-, and triglycerides at approximately equal rates. The exact role of this monoglyceride specific lipase is difficult to delineate. Since pancreatic lipase is specific for the hydrolysis of the 1- and 3-positions of triglycerides, this enzyme may have a definite role in the completion of normal digestion of triglycerides. (Author)
Recent progress in fiber-coupled multi-mode pump module and broad-area laser-diode performance from 800-1500 nm

We present performance improvements of fiber-coupled pump modules and broad-area lasers at 8xx nm, 9xx nm and 14xx nm wavelengths. Broad-area lasers with a 200 μm aperture at 808 nm for direct diode applications emit 11W CW and 30W pulsed. Pump modules at 830 nm for printing applications show excellent linearity, power stability of 2% and 95% of the power within 0.12 NA into a 50 μm core fiber at 1W CW. Broad-area lasers at 880 nm for pumping applications emit 18W CW with a peak wallplug efficiency of 64%. An improved design of 9xx pump modules is demonstrated with built-in feedback-protection (>30 dB at 1060 nm) that allows safe operation in multi-kW peak-power fiber lasers. Up to 3W of optical power with slope efficiency and peak wallplug efficiency of 0.64 W/A and 46%, respectively, is presented for 14xx nm broad-area lasers with a 100 μm wide aperture.
Ice-deformation in the flow of glaciers

Under a project-grant from the Geological Society of America, thin-section studies were made of ice from the glaciers of Mt. Rainier. Of greatest interest were observations of ice-granules along and across “fault-planes” in the glaciers. In many of the cases observed no true fracture or movement on discrete planes seems to have occurred. It appears probable that differential movement progressed by a combination of inter- and intra-granular adjustments which involved basal slip, distortion of the crystal lattices, and one or more types of recrystallization.
Comparison of dry ashing and wet acid digestion on the determination of boron in plant tissue

Abstract Dry ashing and wet acid digestion of selected plant tissues were conducted and evaluated for their effectiveness in the spectrophotometric determination of boron (B) using the Azomethine‐H method. In dry ashing, two parameters were varied: ashing aids and length of oxidation period. In wet acid digestion, two different mineral acids were used and the length of the oxidation period was varied between 12 and 24 h. Results showed that samples treated with sulfuric acid in dry ashing had the lowest recoveries of B. Boron concentrations in tissues oxidized for 12 h in wet acid digestions were at least 40% higher than the results obtained for any dry ashing technique.
Glutamine is the major precursor for GABA synthesis in rat neocortex in vivo following acute GABA-transaminase inhibition

The objective of the present study was to assess the degree to which astrocytic glutamine provides carbon for net synthesis of GABA in the rat neocortex in vivo. Isotopic labeling of GABA and glutamate from astrocytic glutamine was followed in halothane anesthetized and ventilated rats during an intravenous infusion of [2-(13)C]glucose. A net increase in GABA was achieved by administration of the GABA-transaminase inhibitor, gabaculine to suppress catabolism of GABA and recycling of (13)C label. (13)C Percentage enrichments of GABA, glutamate and glutamine were assessed in tissue extracts using (13)C-edited (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance at 8.4 T. GABA levels increased 2.6 micromol/g at 2 h and 6.1 micromol/g at 5 h after gabaculine, whereas glutamate and glutamine decreased in toto by 5.6 micromol/g at 2 h and 3.1 micromol/g at 5 h. Selective enrichment of glutamine, glutamate, and GABA C3's over other carbon positions was observed consistent with a precursor role for astrocytic glutamine. Between 1 h (control) and 3 h (gabaculine-treated) of [2-(13)C]glucose infusion, (13)C percentage enrichment increased in glutamine C3 (from 3.2+/-0.5 to 7.0+/-0.9%), glutamate C3 (from 1.8+/-0.5 to 3.4+/-0.9%), and GABA C3 (from 2.7+/-1.6 to 4.8+/-0.4%). The measured incremental [3-(13)C]GABA concentration (0.15 micromol/g) was close to the predicted value (0.13 micromol/g) that would be expected if the increase in GABA were produced entirely from glutamine compared to glutamate (0.07 micromol/g) based on the average precursor enrichments between 1 and 3 h. We conclude that glutamine is the major source of GABA carbon in the rat neocortex produced acutely following GABA-T inhibition by gabaculine in vivo.
An asymptotic analysis of controlled diffusions with rapidly oscillating parameters

This paper presents an asymptotic analysis of controlled diffusions couled by a parameter process. The oscillation rate of the parameter process is assumed to be very large. This gives rise to a limiting problem in which the stochastic parameter process can be replaced by its averaged value. A control for the original problem can be constructed from the optimal control of the limiting problem in a way which guarantees its asymptotic optimality. It is shown that the value function of the original problem converges to the value function of the limiting problem. The convergence rate of the value function and the error estimate of the constructed asymptotically optimal control are obtained. Finally, the results are applied to an adaptive control problem.
Putting Two Heads Together to Unwind DNA

The loading of replicative helicases onto DNA is tightly regulated in all organisms, yet the molecular mechanisms for this event remain poorly defined. Remus et al. (2009) provide important insights into helicase loading in eukaryotes, showing that the Mcm2–7 replicative helicase encircles double-stranded DNA as head-to-head double hexamers.
On slide-based contextual cues for presentation reuse

Reuse of existing presentation materials is prevalent among knowledge workers. However, finding the most appropriate material for reuse is challenging. Existing information management and search tools provide inadequate support for reuse due to their dependence on users' ability to effectively categorize, recall, and recognize existing materials. Based on our findings from an online survey and contextual interviews, we designed and implemented a slide-based contextual recommender, ConReP, for supporting reuse of presentation materials. ConReP utilizes a user-selected slide as a search-key, recommends materials based on similarity to the selected slide, and provides a local-context-based visual representation of the recommendations. Users input provides new insight into presentation reuse and reveals that slide-based search is more effective than keyword-based search, local-context-based visual representation helps in better recall and recognition, and shows the promise of this general approach of exploiting individual slides and local-context for better presentation reuse.
Fluorescence dilution technique for measurement of cardiac output and circulating blood volume in healthy human subjects.

Background The authors previously validated in an animal model a new indicator dilution technique for measuring cardiac output and circulating blood volume by recording transcutaneously the fluorescence of circulating indocyanine green with an optical probe placed on the skin surface. The current study compared fluorescence dilution recordings recorded from several locations on the human face in terms of signal intensity and stability and estimated the subjects' cardiac output and circulating blood volume from the recordings. Methods Fluorescence dilution traces were recorded transcutaneously in six healthy human volunteers after rapid intravenous injection of 1 mg indocyanine green. Three placements of the optical probe were tested: the nose ala, the ear lobe, and the temple area. In three subjects, the recordings were calibrated in terms of circulating indocyanine green concentration to estimate cardiac output and circulating blood volume. Results Fluorescence dilution traces had the same duration for the three locations, but the recordings obtained from the nose ala and the ear lobe were twice as intense as those from the temple. The fluorescence intensity at each site was linearly related to the local laser Doppler perfusion index. The coefficient of variation for the area under the first pass curve (inversely proportional to cardiac output) was approximately 6% for triplicate measurements at the same location. Cardiac output and circulating blood volume derived from the fluorescence recordings were in the normal range. Conclusions The study demonstrates that intense and reproducible fluorescence dilution signals can be measured transcutaneously in healthy humans and could potentially be used to measure cardiac output and circulating blood volume minimally invasively.
Viral Myocarditis Leading to Cardiomyopathy: Do Cytokines Contribute to Pathogenesis?

Abstract Cardiotropic virus infection of mice typically produces florid myocardial inflammation and, in certain strains, elicits a chronic postinfectious autoimmune myocarditis. In humans, myocarditis may progress into cardiomyopathy manifested by interstitial fibrosis and myocyte hypertrophy in the absence of myocardial inflammation. Because of their pleiotropic effects, cytokines may provide a common link between connective tissue changes, myocardial injury, and cardiac autoimmunity. To explore such possibilities, histopathological and serological studies were performed on virus-infected mice which were or were not subject to cytokine manipulation. Mice infected with low doses of encephalomyocarditis virus exhibited little myocardial inflammation although myocyte hypertrophy and reactive fibrosis were common. Profound ultrastructural changes in the interstitium were observed through much of the noninflamed myocardium. B10.A mice which are resistant to the development of postinfectious autoimmune myocarditis developed severe autoimmune myocarditis when infected with Coxsackie virus B3 (CB3) and treated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), or interleukin 1 (IL-1). B10.A mice given CB3, LPS, TNF, or IL-1 alone did not develop myocarditis and there was no evidence of autoimmune recognition of the heart. When CB3-infected A/J mice, which typically develop autoimmune sequelae to the infection, were treated with an IL-1 receptor antagonist, myocordial injury was diminished and heart antibody activity was reduced. These results suggest that TNF, IL-1, and possibly other cytokines contribute to myocardial pathogenesis and the induction of heart-specific autoimmunity. Further studies may lead to the development of cytokine-based therapeutic approaches to treating myocarditis and cardiomyopathy.
Formal justification of underspecification for S5

We formalize the notion of underspecification as a means of avoiding problems with partial functions in modal logic S5 and some semantically related logics. For these logics, underspecification respects validity, so incorporating it into their semantics leaves their classes of valid formulae unchanged.
V. Breaking tests under hydrostatic pressure and conditions of rupture

(1912). V. Breaking tests under hydrostatic pressure and conditions of rupture. The London, Edinburgh, and Dublin Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science: Vol. 24, No. 139, pp. 63-80.
The effect of surgery on the growth of patients with patent ductus arteriosus.

Summary 1. The growth of sixty-one children with patent ductus arteriosus has been evaluated using Wetzel's Grid. 2. Preoperatively more children were of the B 2 physique or lower than would be expected. 3. Preoperatively more children had a reduced speed of growth than would be expected. 4. Postoperatively more children had a gain in physique and an increase in speed of growth than would be expected. 5. In instances in which surgery was performed late in childhood, loss in physique or speed of growth was frequently not regained. 6. The possible causes of loss in physique or speed of growth following surgical ligation of the patent ductus arteriosus were discussed.
Cone emission from laser-pumped two-level atoms.

In spite of the fact that cone emission was first observed over a decade ago, there is still no generally accepted theory of the effect. Here we give an outline of a unified approach and point out a mechanism that supports Cherenkov-type radiation due to vacuum fluctuations as a possible source of cone emission. This can be considered as an additional mechanism to the previously discussed four-wave mixing, and initial encoding and follow-up refraction effects. We compare our treatment to previously considered models.
Direct methanol oxidation at low overpotentials using Pt nanoparticles electrodeposited at ultrathin conductive RuO2 nanoskins

Small (primarily 2–4 nm) Pt nanoparticles electrodeposited at Ti-supported RuO2 nanoskins, designated as Pt/RuO2(Ti), are highly active for electrocatalytic oxidation of methanol (CH3OH) in acid electrolyte, with peak potentials among the lowest reported anywhere for RuO2-supported Pt. The Pt-modified RuO2 nanoskin is equally effective for CH3OH oxidation whether one or both sides of the Ti-foil substrate is coated or whether the RuO2 nanoskin is electrolessly deposited at the Ti substrate as a single layer or in multiple layers. Current densities for methanol oxidation are ∼2× lower than previously reported, owing to a bimodal distribution of both highly active (2–4 nm) and less active larger (> 5 nm) Pt particles. The methods reported here comprise a means of expressing highly active, nanostructured, bifunctional electrocatalytic coatings on substrates of essentially any geometry and minimizing the quantity of RuO2 necessary.