cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exact solution to the Einstein-Yang-Mills equation

Abstract An exact solution to the Einstein-Yang-Mills equation is presented. The solution takes the form of a closed Friedmann universe with the energy-momentum tensor dominated by large time-dependent magnetic fields. It exists only in non-abelian gauge theory. The stability of the solution is analyzed in detail. It is found that there is one, and only one unstable fluctuation mode of non-abelian gauge fields.
Negative Feedback Regulation of TGF-β Signaling by the SnoN Oncoprotein

Smad proteins mediate transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling to regulate cell growth and differentiation. The SnoN oncoprotein was found to interact with Smad2 and Smad4 and to repress their abilities to activate transcription through recruitment of the transcriptional corepressor N-CoR. Immediately after TGF-beta stimulation, SnoN is rapidly degraded by the nuclear accumulation of Smad3, allowing the activation of TGF-beta target genes. By 2 hours, TGF-beta induces a marked increase in SnoN expression, resulting in termination of Smad-mediated transactivation. Thus, SnoN maintains the repressed state of TGF-beta-responsive genes in the absence of ligand and participates in negative feedback regulation of TGF-beta signaling.
Stability boundaries for resonant migrating planet pairs

Convergent migration allows pairs of planet to become trapped into mean motion resonances. Once in resonance, the planets’ eccentricities grow to an equilibrium value that depends on the ratio of migration time scale to the eccentricity damping timescale, K = a= e, with higher values of equilibrium eccentricity for lower values of K. For low equilibrium eccentricities, eeq / K 1=2 . Equilibrium eccentricities also depend on the distance between the planets. Resonances near the planet have lower equilibrium eccentricity. The stability of a planet pair depends on eccentricity so the system can become unstable before it reaches its equilibrium eccentricity. Using a resonant overlap criterion that takes into account the role of rst and second order resonances and depends on eccentricity, we nd a function Kmin( p;j) that denes the lowest value for K, as a function of the ratio of total planet mass to stellar mass ( p) and the period ratio of the resonance dened as P1=P2 = j=(j +k), that allows two convergently migrating planets to remain stable in resonance at their equilibrium eccentricities. We scaled the functions Kmin for each resonance of the same order into a single function Kc. The function Kc for planet pairs in rst order resonances is linear with increasing planet mass and quadratic for pairs in second order resonances with a coecient depending on the relative migration rate and strongly on
Lack of effect of TCAP on conditioned avoidance learning in rats

TCAP has been reported to enhance the retention of a discriminated lever-pressing avoidance response in rats, presumably by increasing the rate of RNA synthesis during the learning trials. In three experiments using a pole-climb avoidance response and multiple injections, we were unable to demonstrate enhancement. In two additional experiments designed to confirm the original report, results were also negative.
Technical communique: Lower order control for systems with fast and slow modes

Given a stabilizing control for a linear system with fast and slow subsystems, a lower order control as a function of slow states alone is designed to give a first-order approximation of the original quadratic performance index, which is not necessarily minimized by the given stabilizing full-order control.
Measurement of Quality in Rubber Goods by Physical Tests

Abstract THE expression “measurement of quality” as applied to rubber goods seems at first thought to be quite definite; unfortunately, it conveys to different persons widely divergent ideas. Engineers in dealing with various materials often interpret the word “quality” as being synonymous with strength. Such usage is quite common in the rubber industry, and stocks possessing high tensile strength may be designated as high quality. A rubber compounder, on the other hand, may consider the quality of a rubber compound to be related to the percentage of pure rubber contained in the mixture. Thus, compounds having only small amounts of other materials added to the rubber would be considered high grade though they might be inferior in strength. Purchasers of rubber products have in the past shared both of these viewpoints, but today the more enlightened consumers understand the expression “high quality” to indicate the relative excellence of an article in performance of the intended service. This seems a more ...
Comparison of the effects of age and phorbol myristate acetate on the β-adrenergic system in mouse epidermis

The beta-adrenergic hormone responsiveness of mouse epidermis exhibited an age-dependent decrease. The 3-4-fold loss of response to isoproterenol was seen between 3 and 6 months of age, and the response remained at a depressed level through 18 months of age. No differences were seen between either the number or binding affinities of epidermal beta-receptors in 2- and 12-month-old animals. The skin tumor promoter, phorbol myristate acetate, inhibited the beta-adrenergic response independently of age.
The molecular basis of somatic hypermutation of immunoglobulin genes

Somatic hypermutation amplifies the variable region repertoire of immunoglobulin genes. Recent experimental evidence has thrown light on various molecular models of somatic hypermutation. A link between somatic hypermutation and transcription coupled DNA repair is shaping up.
Gauge-Field Algebra, Soft-Meson Methods, and Divergences

Using Bjorken's methods in the context of the recently proposed gauge-field algebra of currents, we discuss the problem of divergences in electromagnetic mass differences (${{m}_{{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}}}^{2}\ensuremath{-}{{m}_{{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}}}^{2}$, ${{m}_{{K}^{+}}}^{2}\ensuremath{-}{{m}_{{K}^{0}}}^{2}$) and decays, weak decays (e.g., ${{K}_{1}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}2\ensuremath{\pi}$), and asymptotic behavior of electromagnetic processes.
Orbitomalar suspension during high SMAS facelift.

Background: Traditional facelift techniques have some limitations: superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS) dissection may be incomplete in the superior medial orbitomalar region, and the centrofacial approach does not incorporate SMAS elevation. Objectives: Orbitomalar suspension (OMS) during high SMAS facelift combines the best of other techniques and may enhance aesthetic results and improve blending of the eyelid-cheek junction while minimizing the risk of lower eyelid ectropion. The authors examine the efficacy and complication rates of the OMS procedure. Methods: Sixty patients underwent OMS as a primary component of high SMAS facelift and lower blepharoplasty. The technique is designed to accomplish superior-medial repositioning of the cheek while stabilizing lower eyelid position, reducing the risk of postoperative ectropion. Results: Minor complications related to the OMS procedure occurred in three patients, all of whom had palpable and slightly visible Vicryl knots on one or both lateral upper eyelids. In one patient, the right side was reopened with a limited incision and the knot was removed. One case of lower eyelid malposition occurred and required revision. This patient presented on day three with unilateral left ectropion (2 mm), but the broken suture was easily replaced under local anesthesia, and the patient had no further ectropion. Two patients had transient lower eyelid malposition, which resolved within four weeks of surgery after gentle massage and lateral eyelid support with steri-strips. Two patients with prominent eyes and inferior orbital rim recession (negative vector) were not fully corrected; however, their lid position was no worse than the preoperative position and curvature. Conclusions: OMS during high SMAS facelift complements the deeper plane by adding a medial and superior vector of elevation to the cheek. Blending of the lower eyelid-cheek junction is accomplished with little risk of lower eyelid malposition.
Neurosurgery and quantum dots: Part I – State of the art

This article represents the first of a 2-part exploration of quantum dots (Qdots) and their application to neurological surgery. Spanning from materials science to immunology, this initial review traces the marriage of imaging physics to biochemical specificity. Qdot science now stands poised to dramatically advance the diagnosis and therapy of neurosurgical conditions. Qdot research efforts currently involve several disciplines; this comprehensive review therefore considers multiple fields of inquiry. This first installment discusses 1) Qdot physical properties, 2) established biological and in vivo properties, 3) magnetic resonance imaging applications, and ( 4) existing cardiovascular and oncologic research. Finally, this review establishes the existing bounds of Qdot possibilities. The second concept article details future endovascular diagnostic and therapeutic methods derived from these seminal advances.
Initiation of transcription at phage T4 late promoters with purified RNA polymerase

We have previously identified T4 late promoters governing the in vivo expression of T4 late genes 23 and 24 (P23 and P24). T4 late transcription in vivo is known to involve the binding of at least five phage-coded proteins to the bacterial RNA polymerase and normally requires concurrent DNA replication for DNA template activation. We show here that in vitro transcription, primarily of plasmids carrying T4 genes 23 and 24, by RNA polymerase purified from Escherichia coli at late times after T4 infection allows specific initiation at P23 and P24 in the absence of DNA replication. These promoters are not utilized by E. coli RNA polymerase holoenzyme, by RNA polymerase core, or by T4-modified RNA polymerase purified from cells infected with a T4 gene 55 mutant (gene 55 codes for an RNA polymerase binding protein required for late transcription). The utilization of P23 and P24 in vitro is sharply inhibited by NaCl concentrations greater than 100 mM, and this inhibition is partly reversed by the addition of 10% DMSO. Relaxation of plasmid DNA containing P23 (with topoisomerase I) reduces P23 utilization at low salt (50 mM Na+) and nearly abolishes it at high salt (250 mM Na+). P23 utilization is discernible in linear, glucosylated hydroxymethylcytosine-containing T4 virion DNA.
Computational synergetics and the exploration of nonlinear science

In 1960, S. Ulam demonstrated, in A Collection of Mathematical Problems, how computers would be used as heuristic tools to allow us to explore complex nonlinear dynamical motions and to discover unexpected linkages and new concepts. Recent developments in two-dimensional vortex dynamics illustrate the synergetic working mode.
Modeling Concordance Correlation Coefficient for Longitudinal Study Data

Measures of agreement are used in a wide range of behavioral, biomedical, psychosocial, and health-care related research to assess reliability of diagnostic test, psychometric properties of instrument, fidelity of psychosocial intervention, and accuracy of proxy outcome. The concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) is a popular measure of agreement for continuous outcomes. In modern-day applications, data are often clustered, making inference difficult to perform using existing methods. In addition, as longitudinal study designs become increasingly popular, missing data have become a serious issue, and the lack of methods to systematically address this problem has hampered the progress of research in the aforementioned fields. In this paper, we develop a novel approach to tackle the complexities involved in addressing missing data and other related issues for performing CCC analysis within a longitudinal data setting. The approach is illustrated with both real and simulated data.
Influence of Calcium on the Release of Gastrin from Isolated Rodent G Cells

AbstractA fraction of isolated and enriched rodent, gastrin-containing G cells was prepared using a previously described technique (1) and employed to investigate the role of calcium in gastrin release in vitro. Incubation of the enriched G cells in medium containing low extracellular calcium resulted in a significant, 20-40% increase in basal gastrin release. It was determined that hormone secretion is enhanced when the cells are incubated under basal conditions in medium containing low levels of calcium (0-0.3 mM CaCl2) and inhibited when the extracellular calcium concentration is increased above 2.4 mM. Addition of Verapamil, a drug which prevents calcium entry into isolated cells and accelerates calcium efflux, to the medium at a final concentration of 10 μM, induced a significant 2-2.5 fold increase in gastrin release. Peptone-stimulated gastrin release was not influenced by either Verapamil or incubation of the cells in calcium-free medium. The results suggest that inhibition of calcium influx or ac...
Citizen participation as a balanced exchange: An analysis and strategy

Abstract Citizen participation remains an unpredictable and frustrating activity for many public agency planners and administrators. The responsibility to involve citizens appears to be increasingly pervasive, but the strategies which make these efforts successful remain a mystery. Social exchange theory helps to unravel that mystery. This paper explores the principles of social exchange and power theories as they apply to the agency‐citizen relationship. Successes and failures are shown to be relatively predictable. Contrasting perspectives are examined. The exchange concept is used as a guide to the practice of organizing citizen participants through stages of evolutionary development. The nature of reciprocal benefits is linked to evolutionary phases. Finally, a model of the exchanges between planners and participants is proposed. Balanced exchanges are viewed as producing the greatest benefits.
Inverse modeling of sub-100 nm MOSFETs using I-V and C-V

Direct quantitative two-dimensional (2D) profile characterization of state-of-the-art MOSFETs continues to be elusive. In this paper, we present a comprehensive indirect methodology that achieves that for sub-100 nm MOSFETs using combined current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) data. An optimization loop minimizes the error between simulated and measured electrical characteristics by adjusting parameterized doping profiles. This technique possesses high sensitivity to critical 2D doping in the source/drain extensions and channel region as well as to structural details such as t/sub ox/ and physical gate length. Here we demonstrate the technique by characterizing two NMOS families (t/sub ox/=3.3 nm and 1.5 nm with effective channel lengths down to 50 nm). We then follow up with an evaluation of the ability of inverse modeling to capture modern profiles using simulated devices and I-V data. We show that extracted profiles exhibit decreased root mean square error (RMSE) as the doping parameterization becomes increasingly comprehensive of doping features (i.e., implants or doping pile-up).
Effect of dibutyryl cAMP on cell cycle progression of rat brain tumor cells in vitro.

Autoradiographic and flow microfluorometry analyses have been applied to a study of perturbed cell kinetics in 9L rat brain tumor cells treated with dibutyryl cyclic AMP and theophylline alone and in combination in vitro. At a concentration of 1 mM each, cell growth ceased shortly after the administration of these drugs. The results indicate that cells in S and G2 phase at the time of drug administration can undergo mitosis even though a considerable prolongation of G2 phase was apparent. However, cells in G1 at the time of drug administration were arrested in that phase whereas those cells in S or G2 were able to complete one mitosis before becoming arrested in the G1 phase. This blocking effect was reversible, and cells resumed proliferation at a normal rate shortly after the removal of these drugs.
State Bias and Women's Status

There is another bias beside male bias present in interpretive works about women. I call it “state bias” to refer to a hierarchical way of conceptualizing characteristic of state societies. As regards women, it assumes that sexual equality can come in only one form: androgyny. But recent ethnographic studies and reexaminations of data suggest that for nonstates, equality may take various forms from both the perspectives of outside observers and members of the society as well.
RhoBTB3: A Rho GTPase-Family ATPase Required for Endosome to Golgi Transport

Rho GTPases are key regulators of the actin-based cytoskeleton; Rab GTPases are key regulators of membrane traffic. We report here that the atypical Rho GTPase family member, RhoBTB3, binds directly to Rab9 GTPase and functions with Rab9 in protein transport from endosomes to the trans Golgi network. Gene replacement experiments show that RhoBTB3 function in cultured cells requires both RhoBTB3's N-terminal, Rho-related domain and C-terminal sequences that are important for Rab9 interaction. Biochemical analysis reveals that RhoBTB3 binds and hydrolyzes ATP rather than GTP. Rab9 binding opens the autoinhibited RhoBTB3 protein to permit maximal ATP hydrolysis. Because RhoBTB3 interacts with TIP47 on membranes, we propose that it may function to release this cargo selection protein from vesicles to permit their efficient docking and fusion at the Golgi.
What’s New in Pediatric Dermatology

Clinical guidelines relating to atopic dermatitis, systemic beta-blockade for infantile hemangiomas and acne have all been published within the last 2 years. Important studies have also better characterized emerging infections such as coxsackievirus a6, mycosis fungoides, severe cutaneous drug reactions in the pediatric population, and hidradenitis suppurativa; these will all be reviewed here.
Theoretical study of the atomic and electronic structure of the c-4x4 reconstructed GaAs(100) surface

Abstract The c-4x4 reconstruction of the As(100) face of GaAs is examined using an energy-minimization approach. Other structures with 1x1, c-2x2 and p-2x2 periodicities are also examined in this study. The calculations predict that dimerization of surface As atoms is energetically favorable; however, structures with only one type of dimer per unit cell are found to be unstable. A four atom unit cell with two inequivalent dimers is the minimum size necessary for an adequate description of the surface atomic and electronic properties. The c-4x4 surface is suggested to consist of equal numbers of symmetric and asymmetric As dimers.
Ratio Scales Derived from Perturbations of Consistent Judgments

We derive ratio scales from paired comparison judgments in a reciprocal matrix A. When the judgments are consistent, we have a principal eigenvalue structure which is preserved when A is perturbed. Mathematical conditions are given on the size of the perturbations to produce a good approximation to A by a matrix W of ratios formed from the derived scale. Goodness is analyzed for both metric and order properties. The results of this paper point strongly to the fact that the eigenvalue process is the intrinsic solution to the problem of deriving a ratio scale, thus one does not need to invent extraneous normative criteria to solve an inconsistent problem.
Immediate-early genes induced by antigen receptor stimulation

Immediate early genes induced by triggering of the TCR frequently encode proteins that act in signal transduction cascades. Recent advances concerning several immediate-early proteins have been made, including signal-induced regulation of NF-kappa B by I kappa-B, the role of Nur77 in T-cell selection and apoptosis, and the function of PAC-1 in regulating the Ras/ERK pathway.
On the Existence of Supervisory Policies That Enforce Liveness in Partially Controlled Free-Choice Petri Nets

We first show that the existence, or nonexistence, of a supervisory policy that enforces liveness in an arbitrary Petri net (PN) is not semidecidable. Following this, we show that this is not the case if we restrict our attention to an arbitrary, partially controlled, free-choice Petri net (FCPN). Starting from the observation that the set of initial markings for which there is a supervisory policy that enforces liveness in a free-choice structure is right-closed, we present a string of observations that eventually lead to the conclusion that the existence of a supervisory policy that enforces liveness in an arbitrary FCPN is decidable. The paper concludes with some suggested directions for future research.
Some Thought on JME’s Direction...

We are delighted to take the reins of JME, sharing Editor-in-Chief duties, as a new way of engaging with authors, reviewers, and the entire scholarship of teaching and learning (SOTL) community. There were many reasons to say “yes” to stepping into the Editor-in-Chief role when the OBTS Board asked. JME is close to our hearts and has occupied a special place for us for many years. JME has helped us so often in our teaching and has been our default resource when we have looked to refresh our teaching practice. And JME has been our preferred outlet for our own pedagogy research as a result of both the marvelous review process and the fearless readership with whom we could converse about teaching and learning innovations. We simply could not resist the opportunity to serve the journal in this way. While working with JME is a labor of love, we realize that challenges remain for SOTL moving forward due to a host of factors, not the least of which is the current measurement paradigm that uses citations as the dominant metric. Journal editorship gives us pause to consider opportunities for expanding the management education and development conversation and reframing how pedagogical scholarship is viewed. The issue of where and how pedagogical scholarship fits within the larger disciplinary scholarship mix still exists, and while it is not going away, external stakeholders are demanding metrics that are less esoteric than academic journal citations and more relevant to their needs—such as teaching innovations that positively affect student learning outcomes for a world that needs managers who can effectively navigate a high-velocity environment. In addition, external
Change in thinking about old age among male guardians

Abstract What factors differentiate between individuals who change their thinking about a life stage and those whose ideas remain the same? Based on questionnaires from 149 male guardians of older persons, this research investigated the extent to which guardianship and characteristics of wards and guardians influenced involuntary changes in views of old age. Although greater age, poorer health, female sex and limited finances are used to label old age negatively, these characteristics of wards were not linked directly to changes in guardians' views of old age. Guardians' income, frequency of contact with the ward, family disagreement about guardianships and a preference for more support differentiated between change and stability in attitudes toward old age. The types of changes in thinking are examined and implications of the research are noted.
A model for predicting the density of oil-based muds at high pressures and temperatures

A compositional material-balance model was used to predict the densities of diesel- and mineral-oil-based muds at elevated pressures and temperatures. The authors measured the densities of diesel oil, two mineral oils, and calcium chloride solutions from 78 to 350{degrees}F and from 0 to 15,000 psig. The measured densities were used in an existing compositional material-balance model to predict the densities of 11- and 17-lbm/gal oil-based muds. The authors also measured the densities of these muds at elevated pressures and temperatures and compared them with the predicted values. The results show excellent agreement between measured and predicted densities. The experimental density data were used to predict downhole densities and static wellbore pressures for the oil-based muds. Results show that the mineral-oil muds are not only more compressible than the diesel-oil muds, but also more susceptible to thermal expansion. Therefore, all the oil-based muds tend to give essentially the same static-wellbore-pressure profile.
Environmental factors and growth of Histoplasma capsulatum in soil.

Environmental factors influencing the growth ofHistoplasma capsulatum in soil have been studied. The role of temperature and moisture in the growth of the fungus was found to be critical. The fungus can tolerate very low temperatures, if the soil moisture content is high, but cannot withstand temperatures of 40° C or above for an extended period.
Predation and cannibalism of lady beetle eggs by adult lady beetles

The introduced lady beetle Harmonia axyridis now occurs across much of North America. This species is a strong intraguild competitor that may negatively impact local populations of native Coccinellidae. A laboratory examination of coccinellid egg predation, including cannibalism, revealed that eggs of two native species, Coleomegilla maculata and Olla v-nigrum, had significantly higher egg predation than did H. axyridis eggs. The addition of an alternative food source reduced egg cannibalism and predation. However, in the absence of an alternative food source, both native species attacked exotic eggs less than native eggs whereas, the exotic H. axyridis attacked all egg species similarly. This laboratory study shows that under conditions of low food availability, native coccinellid eggs would suffer from both cannibalism and predation whereas, cannibalism would be the larger threat to H. axyridis eggs.
Optical Fiber Temperature Measuring Technology Application Research in Power System

Electrical overheating and fire are multiple faults in power system, optical fiber temperature measurement technology is better than the traditional temperature measurement device. It can test electrical system changes in temperature more effective and reliable, thus effectively contain similar accidents. This paper expounds the optical fiber temperature monitoring system warning the working principle, system constitution and its characteristics, discusses the practical application of optical fiber temperature warning monitoring system in power system.
Presuppositions about good communication: an assessment of online discourse

This study investigates the online discourse generated by a class of student interns regarding dilemmas they experienced in their work life. The interns use an application designed to foster a dialectical record of their experiences and differences of opinion about how to understand those experiences. We use discourse analysis to explore the students' presuppositions about good communication in the online text. We describe how students' presuppositions that good communication is "open and honest" often conflicts with their experience of superior-subordinate relationships. We suggest that conflicts with presuppositions can be used to facilitate further reflective learning and to shape the online dialogue.
Transfer of a flexor digitorum superficialis motor branch for wrist extension reconstruction in C5–C8 root injuries of the brachial plexus: A case series

In brachial plexus injuries, though nerve transfers and root grafts have improved the results for shoulder and elbow reconstruction, wrist extension has received little attention. We operated on three young patients with C5-C8 root injuries of the left brachial plexus, each operated upon within 6 months of trauma. For wrist extension reconstruction, we transferred a proximal branch of the flexor digitorum superficialis to the motor branch of the extensor carpi radialis brevis. Twenty-four months after surgery, all patients recovered some degree of active wrist motion, from full flexion to near neutral. Independent control of finger flexion and wrist extension was not observed. In C5-C8 root injuries of the brachial plexus, transfer of a flexor digitorum superficialis motor branch to the extensor carpi radialis brevis produces limited recovery.
A Few Useful Stories for Family Therapy

We present several stories we have found useful in our clinical work. Stories like these indirectly provide clients with alternatives and encourage them to share their own growth-enhancing stories. They also help clients change.
Regioselectivity in lithiation of t-butyldimethylsiloxy-3, 5-dimethoxybenzene. A synthesis of the trimethyl ether of sophoraflavanone A

Abstract Selective metallation by inhibiting the directive effect of an oxygen substituent leads to selective substitution of a trioxygenated benzene and a five step synthesis of the titled potentially anti-fungal natural product.
Electronic structures and formation energies of pentavalent-ion-doped SnO2: First-principles hybrid functional calculations

We studied the electronic properties and relative thermodynamic stability of several pentavalent-ion (Ta, Nb, P, Sb, and I) doped SnO2 systems using first-principles hybrid density functional theory calculations, in order to evaluate their potential as transparent conducting oxides (TCOs). I-doped SnO2, though conductive, shows a narrowed optical band gap with respect to the undoped system due to the formation of gap states above the valence band. Nb-doped SnO2 forms localized impurity states below the conduction band bottom, suggesting that the Nb dopant exists as an Nb4+-like cation, which is consistent with the recent experimental finding of the formation of the impurity level below the conduction band bottom [Appl. Phys. Express 5, 061201 (2012)]. Ta- and Sb-doped SnO2 display n-type conductivity, high charge carrier density, and widened optical band gap. P-doped SnO2 shows similar n-type electronic properties with that of Sb- and Ta-doped systems, and thus P-doped SnO2 is proposed as a promising cand...
Anomalous semilunar valve relationships in transposition of the great arteries

We compared semilunar valve relationships of 26 normal hearts with 66 specimens with transposition of the great arteries (TGA). The TGA hearts exhibited a spectrum of dextroposition of the aorta, which brought the point of fibrous continuity between aortic and pulmonary valves 15 to 120° closer to the tricuspid annulus than in the normal specimen. Aortic dextroposition was associated with malalignment of the posterior semilunar (pulmonary) valve in relation to the aortic valve, the tricuspid and mitral valves, and to the membranous ventricular septum.
A phase II study of the oral VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor vatalanib (PTK787/ZK222584) in myelodysplastic syndrome: Cancer and Leukemia Group B study 10105 (Alliance).

Background: Angiogenesis is implicated in the pathophysiology and progression of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Vatalanib (PTK787/ZK222584; Novartis and Schering AG) inhibits receptor tyrosine kinases of vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet derived growth factor and c-Kit. We examined whether vatalanib induces hematological responses in MDS and/or delays progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or death. Methods: Two cohorts were studied. Vatalanib 1250 mg orally was given once daily (cohort 1) or 750–1250 mg once daily in an intra-patient dose escalating schedule (cohort 2) in 28-day cycles to 155 patients with MDS; 142 patients were evaluable for response and 153 for toxicity. Results: The median age was 70.5 years; 51 % had low risk (International Prognostic Scoring System {IPSS} Low/Intermediate-1) and 32 % had high risk (IPSS Intermediate-2/High) MDS. Hematological improvement was achieved in 7/142 (5 %) patients; all 7 were among the 47 patients able to remain on vatalanib for at least 3 months (hematological improvement achieved in 15 % of these 47 patients). For patients with low risk and high risk MDS, respectively, median progression-free survivals were 15 and 6 months, median times to transformation to AML were 28 and 6 months, and median overall survivals were 36 and 10 months. The most frequent non-hematological adverse events grade ≥2 were fatigue, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, anorexia, ataxia, diarrhea, and pain. Two deaths (one intra-cerebral hemorrhage and one sudden death) were possibly related to vatalanib. Conclusions: Vatalanib induces improvement in blood counts in a small proportion of MDS patients. Clinical applicability is limited by side effects.
Offsetting China's CO2 Emissions by Soil Carbon Sequestration

Fossil fuel emissions of carbon (C) in China in 2000 was about 1 Pg/yr, which may surpass that of the U.S. (1.84 Pg C) by 2020. Terrestrial C pool of China comprises about 35 to 60 Pg in the forest and 120 to 186 Pg in soils. Soil degradation is a major issue affecting 145 Mha by different degradative processes, of which 126 Mha are prone to accelerated soil erosion. Similar to world soils, agricultural soils of China have also lost 30 to 50% or more of the antecedent soil organic carbon (SOC) pool.Some of the depleted SOC pool can be re-sequestered through restoration of degraded soils, and adoption of recommended management practices. The latter include conversion of upland crops to multiple cropping and rice paddies, adoption of integrated nutrient management (INM) strategies, incorporation of cover crops in the rotations cycle and adoption of conservation-effective systems including conservation tillage. A crude estimated potential of soil C sequestration in China is 119 to 226 Tg C/y of SOC and 7 to 138 Tg C/y for soil inorganic carbon (SIC) up to 50 years. The total potential of soil C sequestration is about 12 Pg, and this potential can offset about 25%of the annual fossil fuel emissions in China.
Research Libraries: Connecting Users to Numeric and Spatial Resources

The burgeoning use of numeric data resources across all academic disciplines raises significant questions about the library's role in providing data services and promoting quantitative literacy. This study analyzes the content of web pages to determine the presence and promotion of data resources and services at a random sample of large research libraries (and their related institutions) in North America. The results prompt the authors to challenge libraries to more fully engage their users in efforts at richer discovery, use, and analysis of data.
Recycling Expertise and Instrumental Loyalty

In this paper I will examine the history of the first three, of a sequence of five, experiments performed by the Mann-O'Neill collaboration at the Princeton-Pennsylvania Accelerator. The experiments were conducted over a period of four years and measured aspects of K+ meson decay. Each of the experiments was done with essentially the same basic apparatus, with modifications for each of the specific measurements. We will see the increasing expertise of the experimenters as the experiments progressed. The third measurement was technically more difficult and built upon the acquired knowledge of how the experimental apparatus worked.
Effect of beta-aminopropionitrile on tumor metastases in the rat.

Rats treated with either beta-aminoproprionitrile or saline received intramesenteric venous Walker sarcoma. Results showed no differences in hepatic takes but a significant increase in pulmonary metastases in BAPN-treated animals. Bone collagenase levels were the same in both groups. Histologic studies revealed a disruptive influence of BAPN on collagen integrity of large vessels. The results imply that the lung is more sensitive to this effect than liver.
Examination of the Construct Validity of Impact™ Computerized Test, Traditional, and Experimental Neuropsychological Measures

Although computerized neuropsychological screening is becoming a standard for sports concussion identification and management, convergent validity studies are limited. Such studies are important for several reasons: reference to established measures is needed to establish validity; examination of the computerized battery relative to a more traditional comprehensive battery will help understand the strengths and limitations of the computer battery; and such an examination will help inform the output of the computerized battery. We compared scores on the ImPACT™ battery to a comprehensive battery of traditional neuropsychological measures and several experimental measures used in the assessment of sports-related concussion in 54 healthy male athletes. Convergent validity was demonstrated for four of the five ImPACT™ domain scores. Two cognitive domains often compromised as a result of mild TBI were not directly identified by the ImPACT™ battery: sustained attention and auditory working memory. Affective sym...
Passivation Design / Electromigration Performance Correlations in Layered Aluminum Metallizations

The study presented in this paper establishes correlations between key passivation morphological characteristics and metal electromigration performance. This was done by using test structures including extrusion monitors which provided narrow gaps along both sides of the test stripes. The parameters studied were: (1) the nature of the gap filling (oxide process and step coverage), (2) local oxide planarization, and (3) oxide thickness above the leads tested. Failure analysis was conducted by SEM cross-sections of cracked passivation areas. We observed that in the case of aluminum metallizations capped by a thin anti-reflective coating (ARC) layer, failure occurred in all cases by aluminum extrusion from the top comers of the leads, and at 45 degree angles into the passivation. Ultimately, the lifetime was dependent on oxide thickness above the test leads rather than gap-filling characteristics.
Synthesis and evaluation of 1,2,4-methyltriazines as mGluR5 antagonists

In previous studies we showed that 3-(substituted phenylethynyl)-5-methyl[1,2,4]triazine analogues of MPEP were potent antagonists of glutamate-mediated mobilization of internal calcium in an mGluR5 in vitro efficacy assay. In the present study we report the synthesis and evaluation of six 3-(substituted biphenylethynyl)-5-methyl[1,2,4]triazines (5a-f), and five 3-(substituted phenoxyphenylethynyl)-5-methyltriazines (6a-e). Compound 2-(4-fluorophenyl-5-[2-(5-methyl[1,2,4]triazine-3-yl)ethynyl]benzonitrile (5f) with an IC(50) of 28.2 nM was the most potent analogue.
Estrogen induces a systemic growth factor through an estrogen receptor-alpha-dependent mechanism

Abstract Estrogen induces proliferation of uterine epithelium through a paracrine action of estrogen receptor (ERα) in the underlying stroma. In ovariectomized mice primed with progesterone, estrogen stimulates proliferation in both the epithelium and the stroma. We set out to test whether a paracrine mode of action is involved in estrogen-induced proliferation of the uterine stroma. Epithelial and mesenchymal tissues derived from uteri of neonatal ERα null mice (ERαKO) or wild-type mice were separated and recombined in all four possible configurations (ERα+ or ERα− epithelium with ERα+ or ERα− mesenchyme) and grafted into female athymic mice. After 5 wk, hosts were ovariectomized and challenged with hormone treatment, and cellular proliferation was monitored by thymidine autoradiography. Results showed that, although the full response of the epithelium was dependent on an ERα-positive mesenchyme, stromal cell proliferation was independent of tissue ERα. This latter observation suggests that the response ...
Advanced Methods in Meta-Analytic Research: Applications and Implications for Rehabilitation Counseling Research.

Over the past 25 years, meta-analysis has assumed a significant role in the synthesis of counseling and psychotherapy research through the evaluation and interpretation of the results of multiple studies. An examination of four widely recognized rehabilitation counseling journals, however, reveals that only one meta-analysis (Bolton & Akridge, 1995) has been published during the past 10 years. This article examines the meta-analysis process as a viable method to aggregate multiple studies, discusses common advantages and criticisms of meta-analysis, and provides suggestions specific to how meta-analyses may be applied to investigate rehabilitation outcomes. In addition, new applications of meta-analysis that have been discovered and refined in recent years are presented through a reanalysis of the Bolton and Akridge (1995) meta-analysis.
Efficient Numerical Shadowing Global Error Estimation for High Dimensional Dissipative Systems

Shadowing is a means of characterizing global errors in the numerical solution of initial value dierential equations by allowing for small perturbations in the initial conditions. The method presented in this paper provides a technique for ecient estimation of the shadowing global error for systems that have a large number of exponentially decaying modes. The method is formulated for one-step methods and is applied to the spatial discretization of some dissipative PDEs.
The Content of Political Participation: Letters to the Editor and the People Who Write Them

Letters to the editor are an important but poorly understood form of voluntary political participation. To learn more about the content of letters to the editor and the characteristics of the people who write them we conducted a content analysis of 1,415 randomly selected printed letters from eight newspapers from 2002 to 2005. We also matched the letter writers from our sample to demographic and political information contained in a state voterfile.
Richard II in Thomas Walsingham's Chronicles

King Richard II of England (1377-99) has enjoyed neither a happy nor a wholesome posthumous reputation. The traditional view of his character and government is largely hostile, if not contemptuous.' In recent years, however, historians have begun to question this view. They have detected in the work of contemporary chroniclers, especially Lancastrian authors, the genesis of an unfriendly and unfounded bias against the king. Because of their enormous importance and influence, the many chronicles of St. Albans abbey, above all those by Thomas Walsingham, have been singled out for particular blame.2
A study of dielectric resonators based on two-dimensional fast wavelet algorithm

This letter reports the implementation of orthonormal wavelets for the moment method characterization of three-dimensional dielectric structures. The formulation is based on a 3-D volume integral equation, which is solved numerically using a 2-D multiresolution analysis in conjunction with a sub-domain pulse basis. The use of multiresolution expansions leads to highly sparse linear systems that can be solved very efficiently using the bi-conjugate gradient method. To speed up the numerical evaluation of moment integrals, the fast wavelet algorithm (FWA) has been employed.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitors Block Leukocyte Adhesion and Migration

Leukocyte trafficking is a tightly regulated process essential for an appropriate inflammatory response. We now report a new adhesion pathway that allows unstimulated leukocytes to adhere to and migrate through exposed endothelial matrix or high-density ligand, a process we have termed ligand-induced adhesion. This ligand-induced adhesion is integrin mediated, but in contrast to phorbol ester-stimulated adhesion, it is not dependent on the small GTPase Rap-1 activity. Instead, we show a critical role for cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) 4 in ligand-induced adhesion by three independent lines of evidence: inhibition by pharmacological inhibitors of Cdk, inhibition by dominant-negative construct of Cdk4, and inhibition by Cdk4 small interfering RNA. The major substrate of Cdk4, Rb, is not required for ligand-induced adhesion, suggesting the involvement of a novel Cdk4 substrate. We also demonstrate that Cdk4−/− mice have impaired recruitment of lymphocytes to the lung following injury. The finding that Cdk inhibitors can block leukocyte adhesion and migration may expand the clinical indications for this emerging class of therapeutics.
In Vivo Virulence of Candida albicans Isolates Causing Mucosal Infections in People Infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Mucosal candidiasis is common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Susceptibility to such infections may be attributed to reduced host defense mechanisms and/or virulence of the organism. In the present study, we compared the virulence of mucosal Candida albicans isolates from HIV-infected people, with and without fluconazole-refractory infection, in established murine models of systemic and vaginal candidiasis. Compared with the mortality rate ( approximately 70%) after intravenous challenge with 2 virulent reference isolates, challenge with most clinical isolates (66%-77%) resulted in prolonged survival. In contrast, fungal burden induced by intravaginal challenge of nearly all (97%) isolates was similar to that of the virulent controls. There were no differences in in vitro growth rates for any of the isolates, and there was no association between reduced mortality and clinical failure to fluconazole, in vitro antifungal susceptibility, site of infection, or other host factors. These results suggest that virulence of C. albicans is tissue specific and is not a factor in the development of fluconazole-refractory infections in advanced HIV disease.
Presence of both Mesenchymal and Carcinomatous Features in an In-vitro Model of Ovarian Carcinosarcoma Derived from Patients' Ascitic Fluid

We have refined the technique for isolating and propagating cultures of primary ovarian carcinosarcoma cells (OSCs) derived from ascites, which allowed the cells to obtain the biphasic features of carcinosarcoma in cell culture conditions (presence of both carcinoma and mesenchymal morphologic types). This protocol involves a simple yet rapid method for the growth and propagation of ascites OSC in a basal culture medium. Autologous ascitic fluid was used as source of growth factors, and minimal manipulation was involved to establish the culture. The methodology allowed for the direct application of multiple molecular, cellular, and functional analyses within a few weeks of initial cell isolation, with the further potential of retrospective analyses of archived cells and tissues.
Hyperspherical Coordinate Formulation of the Electron—Hydrogen Atom Scattering Problem

A formulation is presented for the use of hyperspherical coordinates and local hyperspherical surface functions in the electron-hydrogen atom scattering problem. Some representative numerical results of the application of this formulation are given.
Interleukin 7 Can Enhance Antigen-Specific Cytotoxic-T-Lymphocyte and/or Th2-Type Immune Responses In Vivo

Interleukin 7 (IL-7) protein has been reported to be important in the development of cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses. However, other studies also support a partial Th2 phenotype for this cytokine. In an effort to clarify this unusual conflict, we compared IL-7 along with IL-12 (Th1 control) and IL-10 (Th2 control) for its ability to induce antigen (Ag)-specific CTL and Th1- versus Th2-type immune responses using a well established DNA vaccine model. In particular, IL-7 codelivery showed a significant increase in immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) levels compared to IgG2a levels. IL-7 coinjection also decreased production of Th1-type cytokine IL-2, gamma interferon, and the chemokine RANTES but increased production of the Th2-type cytokine IL-10 and the similarly biased chemokine MCP-1. In herpes simplex virus (HSV) challenge studies, IL-7 coinjection decreased the survival rate after lethal HSV type 2 (HSV-2) challenge compared with gD plasmid vaccine alone in a manner similar to IL-10 coinjection, whereas IL-12 coinjection enhanced the protection, further supporting that IL-7 drives immune responses to the Th2 type, resulting in reduced protection against HSV-2 challenge. Moreover, coinjection with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 env and gag/pol genes plus IL-12 or IL-7 cDNA enhanced Ag-specific CTLs, while coinjection with IL-10 cDNA failed to influence CTL induction. Thus, IL-7 could drive Ag-specific Th2-type cellular responses and/or CTL responses. These results support that CTLs could be induced by IL-7 in a Th2-type cytokine and chemokine environment in vivo. This property of IL-7 allows for an alternative pathway for CTL development which has important implications for host-pathogen responses.