cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combined post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and resection of chest tumor under the same anesthetic is appropriate based on morbidity and tumor pathology.

AbstractPurpose: We determine if post-chemotherapy resection of residual retroperitoneal and chest tumor under the same anesthetic is reasonable based on tumor pathology and morbidity, and if the finding of necrosis in the abdomen allows observation of chest tumor.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 143 post-chemotherapy patients who underwent resection of residual retroperitoneal and chest disease under the same anesthetic.Results: Retroperitoneal pathology was generally predictive of chest pathology. Concordance existed in 77.5% of patients with necrosis, 70% with teratoma and 69% with cancer of the abdomen. However, the correlation was much stronger (86%) in predicting necrosis/fibrosis if cases were categorized as uncomplicated by Indiana University criteria. Although the morbidity of the combined approach is higher than that of standard post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, it was acceptable.Conclusions: The morbidity of post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node d...
Use of Skim Breast Milk for an Infant With Chylothorax

This case study describes the management of an infant who developed chylothorax as a complication of surgical repair for congenital heart disease. The challenges of successfully providing skim brea...
Protection of cyclooxygenase activity during heme-induced destabilization.

Sheep vesicular gland cyclooxygenase is destroyed spontaneously when incubated with only substoichiometric amounts of heme. Peroxides may participate in this destruction, since glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and phenol, a cosubstrate for prostaglandin hydroperoxidase, all protect the cyclooxygenase activity. Stoichiometric or greater levels of heme also tend to protect the enzyme from inactivation. Therefore, to achieve optimal recoveries of enzyme activity during purification and storage, the addition of prostaglandin hydroperoxidase cosubstrate, such as phenol, in combination with high levels of heme is recommended. The current understanding of destabilization and protection of cyclooxygenase now allows an interpretation of the previously unexplained phenomenon of slow phenol activation of cyclooxygenase acetone powder preparations. Phenol appears to protect enzyme activity during the slow equilibration of apoenzyme with endogenous heme to form the active holoenzyme. In the absence of phenol, the progressive rise in activity is not seen as the enzyme is vulnerable to heme-induced destruction.
In vitro generation of human mixed lymphocyte culture suppressor cells. I. Cellular characterization and specificity.

SUMMARY The mixed leukocyte culture (MLC) of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from two prospective kidney transplant recipients and their respective donors, produced a primed cell population that functioned as suppressors. The primed cells suppressed the primary and secondary MLC when added as third components, without demonstrable cytotoxic cells. Suppressor cells were derived from the MLCs of related pairs that were genotyped to be: (1) serologically defined (SD) identical and lymphocyte-defined (LD) nonidentical, and (2) HLA (total MHC) identical. Primed cells derived from MLC of unrelated HLA nonidentical subjects also showed similar effects. Two general patterns of inhibition were observed: a marked specific suppression of the autologous responding cells and, to a lesser degree, nonspecific suppression. The T cell fraction derived from the primed suppressor population was suppressive, the cells with B cell characteristics were not suppressive. The suppressive effect of cells generated in MLC was serially monitored after kidney transplantation. The suppressive activity of the primed cells was absent in the early postoperative period (4 weeks), perhaps because of high dose immunosuppression, but later in the course suppression was evident again (2 to 5 months). Manipulation of this T suppressor cell population may prove to be of value in enhancing graft acceptance.
Effect of comorbidity on quality of life of male veterans with prevalent primary total knee arthroplasty

This is a study of the impact of specific and overall comorbidity on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in men with primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In a population-based sample of male veterans who responded to a cross-sectional survey using the validated short-form 36 for veterans (SF-36 V) and had undergone primary TKA prior to survey, eight SF-36 V domain and two summary scores (physical and mental component (PCS and MCS) summary) were compared using multivariable-adjusted multiple linear regressions between patients with and without five comorbidities—chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/asthma, diabetes, depression, hypertension, and heart disease. Analyses were adjusted for age, five comorbidities, and time since TKA. Two hundred ninety-three male patients constituted the analytic set with mean (SD) age of 70.3 (8.8) years; 97% were Caucasian and mean (SD) duration since TKA was 2.1 (0.7) years. COPD/asthma was associated with significantly lower adjusted MCS (mean ± standard error of mean, 47.1 ± 0.7 vs. 43.1 ± 1.2; p ≤ 0.001) and PCS (30.1 ± 0.6 vs. 27.7 ± 1.0; p < 0.05), depression with significantly lower MCS (48.9 ± 0.7 vs. 37.6 ± 1.2; p ≤ 0.001) but not PCS, hypertension with significantly lower MCS (47.0 ± 0.7 vs. 44.3 ± 1.0; p < 0.05) but not PCS, and heart disease with significantly lower MCS (47.4 ± 0.8 vs. 44.2 ± 0.9; p ≤ 0.001) and PCS (30.5 ± 0.7 vs. 28.1 ± 0.8; p < 0.05). Diabetes was not associated with lower MCS or PCS. The overall number of comorbidities was associated with lower MCS and PCS (p ≤ 0.001 for both). Medical and psychiatric comorbidity impacts physical and mental/emotional HRQoL in patients with primary TKA. The impact differs by comorbidity. Higher comorbidity load negatively impacts both physical and mental/emotional HRQoL.
Relationships between concentrations of 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin serum and personal characteristics in U.S. Army Vietnam veterans

Abstract We examined the association between personal characteristics and concentrations of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in blood serum of 640 male U.S. Army Vietnam veterans. TCDD concentrations ranged from 1.1 to 16.2 pg/g wet weight (ppt) with a geometric mean of 3.8 ppt consistent with no past heavy exposure to TCDD. TCDD concentrations increased with body mass index on the order of 0.3 ppt per 10 kg of body weight for veterans of the same height. Concentrations were about 50% greater for black veterans aged 45 compared to black veterans aged 37. We found no association between age and TCDD concentration in non-blacks. Veterans living in the western U.S. had slightly lower concentrations than those living elsewhere. TCDD concentrations tended to be slightly greater in veterans who reported spraying or mixing herbicides while employed in farming or ranching and in those who reported employment at incinerators. Relationships between concentrations of TCDD and personal characteristics were similar for 94 Vietnam-era veterans who had served in the continental U.S. or Germany.
Music and ceremonial in the Low Countries: Philip the Fair and the Order of the Golden Fleece*

The Order of the Golden Fleece, a chivalric order that flourished in Burgundy and the Low Countries from 1431 to 1559, has attracted the attention of historians of politics, culture and art since the nineteenth century, but it has been little explored by music historians, who have contented themselves with a mention of the order's existence and with descriptions of one of its more famous, but less characteristic, events: the Feast of the Oath of the Pheasant. Nevertheless, the order had a strong influence on sacred music during the period of its greatest activity, requiring polyphonic music for many of its functions and perhaps commissioning works by such composers as Josquin Desprez and Alexander Agricola. This influence is intimately tied to the structure of the Order of the Golden Fleece and to the desire of the successive sovereigns for ostentatious display when the group met.
Determinants of the competing outcomes of intrauterine infection, abruption, or spontaneous preterm birth after preterm premature rupture of membranes.

AbstractObjective: Patients with PPROM are at risk for a variety of outcomes, including chorioamnionitis (CA), placental abruption (PA), or preterm labor (PTL). Competing risk regression can analyze a cohort’s risk of individual outcomes while accounting for ongoing deliveries secondary to competing events.Methods: A secondary analysis of the subjects from MFMU BEAM study of neuroprotection after preterm birth (BEAM) with conservative PPROM management. Deliveries were categorized as: PA, CA, PTL, “elective” or “indicated”. The association between outcomes of PA, CA or PTL and clinical predictors of twins, ethnicity, parity, gestational age at rupture, bleeding, contractions, cervical dilation, preterm birth history, weight, and genitourinary infections were evaluated via competing risk regression.Result: 1970 subjects were included. The significance and directionality of predictors varied according to specific outcomes. Patients with twins had an increased PTL hazard (1.85) though reductions in CA- (0.66)...
Alcohol still kills

Abstract [Ary RD, Wald MM, Rutland-Brown W. Alcohol still kills! Ann Emerg Med. June 2002;39:651-652.]
Table of angular-distribution coefficients for (Gamma, particle) and (particle, gamma) reactions

Values are presented in tabular form for the angular-distribution coefficients for photonuclear and radiative-capture reactions in which target and residual spins are ≤5/2. By means of the channel-spin formalism, the angular distributions are expressed in terms of Legendre polynomials and nuclear reaction matrix elements. All angular-distribution coefficients are evaluated numerically. A section is included correlating our expressions with those of several standard presentations of angular-momentum theory in nuclear reactions.
Are corporate tax rates, or countries, converging?

Abstract The statutory rate and effective tax rate imposed on corporation income—as well as the dispersion of these rates—began to decline in the 1980s. Is this due to changes in the domestic determinants of corporate taxation or increases in international pressures for tax competition? This paper finds clear evidence that the corporate tax rate is insulated from a country's revenue needs: across countries, there is no association of the expenditure–GDP ratio with the corporate statutory rate and only weak evidence of a positive association with the average rate. There is suggestive, but not definitive, evidence that the domestic role of the corporate tax as a backstop to the individual income tax is important: across countries, there is indeed a strong association between the top individual rate and the top statutory corporate rate. There is intriguing evidence about the role of international competitive pressures on corporate taxation. Measures of openness are negatively associated with statutory corporate rates, although not with revenues collected as a fraction of GDP. Strikingly, larger, more trade-intensive countries do collect more corporate tax, but this may be because these countries are more attractive venues for investment.
Marine natural products: Cytotoxic spermidine derivatives from the soft coral sinularia brongersmai

Abstract Two new cytotoxic spermidine derivatives isolated from the Pacific soft coral Sinularia brongersmai have been identified as CH 3 (CH 2 8 -C(CH 3 )=CH-CO-NH(CH 2 ) 3 -N(CH 3 )- (CH 2 ) 4 -N(CH 3 ) 2 and its dihydro analog by spectral methods combined with chemical conversions. Acid hydrolysis of the saturated amide followed by esterification yielded methyl 3-methyldodecanoate.
Genetic evidence for transmembrane acetylation by lysosomes

Acetyl-CoA:alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase is a lysosomal-membrane enzyme deficient in a genetic disorder, Sanfilippo disease type C. The enzyme catalyzes the transfer of an acetyl group from cytoplasmic acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) to terminal alpha-glucosamine residues of heparan sulfate within the organelle. Previous kinetic experiments indicated that the enzyme carries out a transmembrane acetylation via a ping-pong mechanism; the reaction can therefore be dissected into two half reactions--acetylation of the enzyme, and transfer of the acetyl group to glucosamine. Cells derived from patients were found to differ in their ability to perform each half reaction. Five cell lines (derived from three families) were able to catalyze acetylation of the lysosomal membrane and to carry out acetyl-CoA/CoA exchange, whereas a sixth cell line was devoid of this activity.
Evidence on risk compensation and safety behaviour

Abstract Risk compensation effects occur when changes in risk-related factors lead to offsetting or reinforcing behaviors. An empirical analysis of recreational boating accidents between 1989 and 1993 suggests that compensating behavior can be offsetting or reinforcing, depending upon the individual safety behavior through which the compensating effect occurs, and can occur through the safety behavior of both the operator and passenger. Cumulative experience and formal training have compensation effects that depend upon the adjustment margin. An implication from this is the need for additional research on identifying adjustment margins through which individuals compensate. This information will assist policy makers whose objectives are to implement regulatory policies that most effectively produce safety enhancing behaviours.
Photoluminescence in pyridine-based polymers: Role of aggregates.

We present a study of the morphology dependence of the photoluminescence (PL) properties of the pyridine-based polymers poly(p-pyridyl vinylene), poly(p-pyridine), and poly(p-pyridyl vinylene p-phenylene vinylene) (PPyVPV). The photoluminescence of solution samples is characterized by high quantum efficiency (g70% in PPyVPV), weak coupling to vibrational modes (Huang-Rhys parameter \ensuremath{\sim}0.5) and a single-exponential decay (radiative lifetime \ensuremath{\sim}1 ns). On the other hand, film samples display strongly redshifted, featureless emission with low quantum yield (20%) and highly nonexponential decay dynamics. Through consideration of absorption and excitation spectra, the ``site-selectivity'' of the PL, and the concentration dependence of the PL spectrum, we demonstrate that the redshifted film spectra are a result of the formation of low-energy aggregate sites due to strong interchain interactions. Time-resolved measurements suggest a longer radiative lifetime for the aggregate vs solution, leading to the lower efficiency. Aggregate formation is found to be morphology dependent, and is minimal in ``powder'' samples which are precipitated after polymerization. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Isoelectronic molecules: The 13‐, 14‐, and 22‐ electron diatomic sequences

The theory of isoelectronic molecules has been applied to three sequences of ground-state diatomic molecules. The global behaviors of their dissociation energies, force constants, and bond distances are examined and the sequences compared with one another. Isovalent molecules show remarkable correspondences.
Coprophagy in the cottontail rabbit.

Coprophagy was recently reported for the swamp rabbit ( Sylvilagus palustris paludicola ) by Hamilton (Jour. Mamm., 36:303–304, 1955). He indicated that the reingestion of droppings probably is more widespread in lagomorphs than is generally recognized. He also stated that cursory examinations of the stomachs of …
Outcome pattern matching and program theory

Abstract Pattern matching is presented as a general framework which can guide the use of theory within program evaluation. Pattern matching minimally involves the specification of a theoretical pattern, the acquisition of an observed pattern, and an attempt to match these two. Pattern matching logic assumes that more complex theoretical patterns, if corroborated, provide a stronger basis for valid inference. Pattern matches in program evaluation can be divided into two types: process pattern matches which assess the construct validity of the program, participants, or measures, and outcome pattern matches which assess the causal hypothesis and address the traditional concerns of internal and external validity. Each of the three types of process pattern matches can be further divided into characteristic pattern matches (which examine the interrelationships between key characteristics across programs, participants, or measures) or object pattern matches (which view interrelationships between programs, participants, or measures based on their overall degree of similarity). Outcome pattern matching can be accomplished for any process pattern match by examining outcomes across programs, participants, or measures viewed either in terms of their characteristics or as molar objects. Hypothetical examples of pattern matching in program outcome evaluation contexts are presented along with consideration of the value of pattern matching for theory-based research .
Differential time course for desensitization to muscarinic effects on K+ and Ca2+ channels

The time course of muscarinic effects on K and Ca currents was investigated at 22–24° C in guinea-pig atrial myocytes, using the whole-cell voltage clamp. At a holding potential of -40 or -50 mV, short exposures to 100 μM acetylcholine (ACh) or carbachol (CCh) reproducibly induced outward K currents (IK,ACh). During long exposures to these agonists, IK,ACh faded with time. In cells not dialysed with guanosine triphosphate (GTP), IK,ACh could dissipate completely following 15–20 min of agonist exposure. After agonist washout, lost sensitivity was not recovered. In cells dialysed with GTP (0.2–1 mM), IK,ACh still faded but normal sensitivity to agonists was restored with washout. Fade of IK,ACh was not prevented by intracellular heparin or dextran, excluding the involvement of either β-adrenergic or muscarinic receptor kinase. IK,ACh induced by bethanechol or adenosine also faded, and subsequent CCh application after washout revealed a diminished response. Intracellular guanosine-5′-o-(3-thiotriphosphate IK,ACh induced IK,ACh which faded, and subsequent exposure to CCh was without effect. Equally, after full desensitization with CCh, IK,ACh failed to induced IK,ACh. The Ca current (ICa) was activated by voltage steps to 0 mV and increased with 1–3 μM isoproterenol. This increase could be reversed by CCh, even when IK,ACh had completely faded. Prolonged muscarinic agonist exposure sometimes also caused fade of the effect on ICa, which always occurred after loss of IK,ACh. The results show that desensitization is heterologous and may involve the guanine nucleotide-binding (G) protein. The differential desensitization to the effects on IK,ACh and ICa suggests the involvement of two different signalling pathways in the muscarinic control of K and Ca channels.
Factors Affecting the Distribution of Wild Rice (Zizania palustris) and the Associated Macrophyte Community

A recent decline in wild rice (Zizania palustris) wetlands has been observed. We assessed the factors significant in understanding the distribution of Z. palustris and the surrounding macrophyte community. Sixty historic wild rice wetlands that currently display a wide range of rice densities were sampled in Wisconsin and Minnesota (USA). Chemical and physical factors and aquatic plants densities were measured. Data were analyzed using Canonical Correspondence Analysis in which the following trends were found. Wetlands that exhibited the greatest loss of Zizania tended to have higher levels of residential development within their watershed, ammonia, pH and depth. The aquatic plant community also shifted to plants that likely benefited from increases in light and pollinators. Increased agriculture was correlated with higher nutrient levels and increases with floating plants that can acquire nutrients directly from the water column. This study suggests optimal conditions for wild rice as well as the aquatic plant communities that are associated with these conditions. This paper demonstrates that Zizania (and other aquatic plants) may be very sensitive to small changes within their watershed that are typical of moderate development. Future management strategies should include consideration of these land-use patterns.
MEASUREMENTS OF THERMAL CONTACT CONDUCTANCE FOR A PAPER/METAL INTERFACE AND EFFECTIVE CONDUCTIVITY OF MACHINE SAMPLES

The thermal contact conductance for a paper/metal interface and the effective thermal conductivity of paper samples were determined using an experimental contact conductance apparatus. The effects ...
Motion, speed, and other ideas that “should be put in books”

Abstract This paper focuses on a portion of a research project involving a group of inner-city middle school students who used SimCalc simulation software over the course of an entire school year to investigate ideas relating to graphical representations of motion and speed. The classroom environment was one in which students openly defended and justified their thinking as they actively explored and solved rich mathematical problems. The activities, generally speaking, involved functions that were intended to tap students’ real world intuitions as well as prior mathematical skills and understandings about speed, motion, and other graphical representations that underlie the mathematics of motion. Results indicate that these students did build ideas related to those concepts. This paper will provide documentation of the ways in which these students interpreted graphical representations involving linear and quadratic functions that are associated with constant and linearly changing velocities, respectively.
Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) following aggressive management of extensive acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The adult respiratory distress syndrome occurred during aggressive therapy of extensive acute leukemia. The pathogenic mechanisms involved includes development of disseminated intravascular coagulation probably initiated by tissue factors from necrotic leukemic cells following chemotherapy. Awareness of the possibility of the complication is stressed.
Tests of the Functional Form, the Wealth Effect, Currency Substitution, and Capital Mobility for Taiwan's Money Demand Function

The Box–Cox transformation indicates that the log-linear form for M2 demand cannot be rejected while the Fair (1987) specification and the linear form can be rejected at the 5% level in favor of general functional form. M2 demand is positively influenced by real GDP, the deposit rate, and the real stock price and negatively affected by the nominal exchange rate, the foreign interest rate, and the expected inflation rate. Hence, the wealth effect of an increased real stock price is greater than the substitution effect. The substitution effect of the deprecation of the New Taiwan dollar dominates the wealth effect. The capital mobility effect of an increased foreign interest rate is greater than the cost of borrowing effect. The general functional form for M2 demand performs better in forecasting than the Fair specification and the linear form.
Reap what you sow: spare cells for post-silicon metal fix

Post-silicon validation has recently become a major bottleneck in IC design. Several high profile IC designs have been taped-out with latent bugs, and forced the manufacturers to resort to additional design revisions. Such changes can be applied through metal fix; however, this is impractical without carefully pre-placed spare cells. In this work we perform the first comprehensive analysis of the issues related to spare-cell insertion, including the types of spare cells that should be used as well as their placement. In addition, we propose a new technique to measure the heterogeneity among signals and use it to determine spare-cell density. Finally, we integrate our findings into a novel multi-faceted approach that calculates regional demand for spare cells, identifies the most appropriate cell types, and places such cells into the layout. Our approach enables the use of metal fix at a much smaller delay cost, with a reduction of up to 37% compared to previous solutions
Elevation of Circulating and Ventricular Adrenomedullin in Human Congestive Heart Failure

Background Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a newly discovered vasodilating and natriuretic peptide that may play an important role in cardiorenal regulation. Although ADM was originally isolated from human...
Supine and Prone Colon Registration Using Quasi-Conformal Mapping

In virtual colonoscopy, CT scans are typically acquired with the patient in both supine (facing up) and prone (facing down) positions. The registration of these two scans is desirable so that the user can clarify situations or confirm polyp findings at a location in one scan with the same location in the other, thereby improving polyp detection rates and reducing false positives. However, this supine-prone registration is challenging because of the substantial distortions in the colon shape due to the patient's change in position. We present an efficient algorithm and framework for performing this registration through the use of conformal geometry to guarantee that the registration is a diffeomorphism (a one-to-one and onto mapping). The taeniae coli and colon flexures are automatically extracted for each supine and prone surface, employing the colon geometry. The two colon surfaces are then divided into several segments using the flexures, and each segment is cut along a taenia coli and conformally flattened to the rectangular domain using holomorphic differentials. The mean curvature is color encoded as texture images, from which feature points are automatically detected using graph cut segmentation, mathematic morphological operations, and principal component analysis. Corresponding feature points are found between supine and prone and are used to adjust the conformal flattening to be quasi-conformal, such that the features become aligned. We present multiple methods of visualizing our results, including 2D flattened rendering, corresponding 3D endoluminal views, and rendering of distortion measurements. We demonstrate the efficiency and efficacy of our registration method by illustrating matched views on both the 2D flattened colon images and in the 3D volume rendered colon endoluminal view. We analytically evaluate the correctness of the results by measuring the distance between features on the registered colons.
Effect of gas flow-field design in the bipolar/end plates on the steady and transient state performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

Abstract In this work the effect of gas flow-field design in the bipolar/end plates on the steady and transient state performance of the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is presented. Simulations were performed with different flow-field designs, viz. (1) serpentine; (2) parallel; (3) multi-parallel; and (4) discontinuous. The steady-state voltage at fixed current density of 5000 A m−2 was highest for discontinuous design. For studying the transient response, the average current density was increased suddenly from 5000 to 8000 A m−2. It was seen that when the load level was increased, the voltage level suddenly dropped and then with time leveled off to a value slightly higher than the dropped value. This time for serpentine, parallel, multi-parallel and discontinuous flow-fields were 9.5, 7.5, 8.0 and 16.5 s, respectively. While it was seen that the steady-state performance of the discontinuous type of design was the maximum, its transient response was slow. On the other hand in case of parallel type of design the steady-state performance was low, but the transient response was high. The multi-parallel design offers a unique advantage of both of these properties, viz. high steady-state performance with good transient response, and therefore should perform better than the other designs chosen in this study.
Pertussis Complicated by the Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion Pathophysiology and Management

Two cases of pertussis complicated by the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) are reported. Both patients experienced seizures associated with hyponatremia. Patients with severe pertussis are at risk for SIADH and should be monitored closely for its development.
LARGE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ANOMALOUS MAGNETIC MOMENT OF THE MUON IN SUPERSYMMETRIC THEORIES

We show that, in supersymmetric theories beyond the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model, the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon can receive large contributions at one-loop level, of , rather than . We evaluate all such contributions and show that, for low supersymmetric masses, they already exceed the value measured by the Brookhaven E821 experiment. These contributions put more stringent mass constraints on the parameters of the model and can distinguish it from the same process in the MSSM.
Generating and manipulating transgenic animals using transposable elements

Transposable elements, or transposons, have played a significant role in the history of biological research. They have had a major influence on the structure of genomes during evolution, they can cause mutations, and their study led to the concept of so-called "selfish DNA". In addition, transposons have been manipulated as useful gene transfer vectors. While primarily restricted to use in invertebrates, prokaryotes, and plants, it is now clear that transposon technology and biology are just as relevant to the study of vertebrate species. Multiple transposons now have been shown to be active in vertebrates and they can be used for germline transgenesis, somatic cell transgenesis/gene therapy, and random germline insertional mutagenesis. The sophistication of these applications and the number of active elements are likely to increase over the next several years. This review covers the vertebrate-active retrotransposons and transposons that have been well studied and adapted for use as gene transfer agents. General considerations and predictions about the future utility of transposon technology are discussed.
Cryogenic trapping of oxidized mercury species from combustion flue gas

Abstract To further understand the speciation and partitioning of mercury species in combustion systems, it is necessary to be able to identify and quantitate the various forms of oxidized mercury. Currently accepted methods for speciating mercury (Ontario Hydro Method, EPA Method 29, MESA Method) only separate elemental and oxidized forms of mercury at best, and they are expensive. This paper describes research on the application of cryogenics to the sampling and separation of oxidized forms of mercury from combustion flue gas. This research has resulted in the development and demonstration of a prototype cryogenic sampling device for the determination of oxidized mercury in flue gas. Preliminary results are encouraging, as they show that mercuric chloride and mercuric oxide can be effectively separated through the prototype device. Further development, refinement, and application of this device are expected to generate data that are critically needed to develop effective control technologies for mercury.
Low Dielectric Constant Thermosetting Resins For Microelectronics

Material technology for future microelectronics will require advances in all facets of materials and processing. Low dielectric constant resins that exhibit facile processing and good thermal and mechanical behavior represent one area of needed research and development. The dielectric constant must be lower than that of amorphous silicon dioxide and possess the right properties for integration with future metallurgies such as copper. Several thermoset resins that were predicted to possess the necessary characteristics have been synthesized and studied. These include a copolymer of 1,3,5-tris(2-allyloxy-hexafluoro-2-propyl) benzene with polymethylhydrosiloxane and several cyanate ester resins. Thermal gravimetric analysis indicated significant degradation between 300 and 400 degrees C depending upon the resin. Dielectric constants were measured up to 40 GHz and ranged from 2.25 to 2.75. Compatibility with copper multilevel processing was addressed. The processability of the dielectric resins was investigated to address the integration issues associated with the fabrication process.
Induction of cell cycle changes and modulation of apoptogenic/anti-apoptotic and extracellular signaling regulatory protein expression by water extracts of I'm-Yunity (PSP).

I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) is a mushroom extract derived from deep-layer cultivated mycelia of the patented Cov-1 strain of Coriolus versicolor (CV), which contains as its main bioactive ingredient a family of polysaccharo-peptide with heterogeneous charge properties and molecular sizes. I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) is used as a dietary supplement by cancer patients and by individuals diagnosed with various chronic diseases. Laboratory studies have shown that I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) enhances immune functions and also modulates cellular responses to external challenges. Recently, I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) was also reported to exert potent anti-tumorigenic effects, evident by suppression of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in malignant cells. We investigate the mechanisms by which I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) elicits these effects. Human leukemia HL-60 and U-937 cells were incubated with increasing doses of aqueous extracts of I'm-Yunity™ (PSP). Control and treated cells were harvested at various times and analyzed for changes in: (1) cell proliferation and viability, (2) cell cycle phase transition, (3) induction of apoptosis, (4) expression of cell cycle, apoptogenic/anti-apoptotic, and extracellular regulatory proteins. Aqueous extracts of I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in HL-60 and U-937 cells, accompanied by a cell type-dependent disruption of the G1/S and G2/M phases of cell cycle progression. A more pronounced growth suppression was observed in treated HL-60 cells, which was correlated with time- and dose-dependent down regulation of the retinoblastoma protein Rb, diminution in the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins bcl-2 and survivin, increase in apoptogenic proteins bax and cytochrome c, and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) from its native 112-kDa form to the 89-kDa truncated product. Moreover, I'm-Yunity™ (PSP)-treated HL-60 cells also showed a substantial decrease in p65 and to a lesser degree p50 forms of transcription factor NF-κB, which was accompanied by a reduction in the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2). I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) also elicited an increase in STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription) and correspondingly, decrease in the expression of activated form of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase). Aqueous extracts of I'm-Yunity™ (PSP) induces cell cycle arrest and alterations in the expression of apoptogenic/anti-apoptotic and extracellular signaling regulatory proteins in human leukemia cells, the net result being suppression of proliferation and increase in apoptosis. These findings may contribute to the reported clinical and overall health effects of I'm-Yunity™ (PSP).
An Alternative to the Fixed Step Salary Schedule.

The rigidity of fixed step salary approaches to wage salary evaluation in school districts has resulted in problems which have caused widespread concern among educators. The primary focus of this study is the development of an effective alternative, based upon mathematical programming techniques, to the fixed step salary schedule. A prototype model was derived which considered nine factors in salary evaluation as well as imposed school district budgetary and salary hierarchal constraints.
Total Fat Intake Modifies Plasma Fatty Acid Composition in Humans

Plasma fatty acid composition reflects dietary fatty acids. Whether the total fat content of the diet alters the fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipid, cholesteryl ester, triacylglycerol and free fatty acids is unknown. To evaluate the effects of low versus high fat diets on plasma fatty acids, a 12-wk, randomized, crossover, controlled feeding trial was conducted in healthy men and women with isoenergic low fat (20% energy) and high fat (45% energy) diets containing constant proportions of fatty acids. Ten subjects consumed one experimental diet for 28 d, their usual diet for 4 wk and the alternate experimental diet for 28 d. Endpoint measures of plasma fatty acids were determined at the end of each experimental period. The effects of the two diets were compared within subjects by analysis of variance. Plasma fatty acids (%) varied in response to total dietary fat with significantly greater total polyunsaturated fat, (n-6) and 18:2(n-6) levels in phospholipids and cholesteryl esters after high fat dietary consumption. The low fat diet was associated with significantly greater total (n-3) fatty acids, 20:5(n-3) and 22:6(n-3) levels in plasma phospholipid fatty acids and cholesteryl esters. Consumption of a low fat diet alters fatty acid patterns in a manner similar to that observed with feeding of (n-3) long-chain fatty acids. This change is likely related to decreased competition for the enzymes of elongation and desaturation, with reduced total intake of 18:2(n-6) favoring elongation and desaturation of available (n-3) fatty acids.
Feedback Error Learning with a noisy teacher

The feedback error learning (FEL) algorithm is examined under the condition of a noisy teaching signal. The teaching signal, which adaptively adjusts the weights of the feedforward network, is assumed to be corrupted by a signal dependent noise (SDN) source. The FEL framework was originally inspired by the cerebellum as a model for human motor control. We analyze the robustness properties of the original system with respect to the SDN noise model. We prove bounds on the learning rate and feedback gain matrices that guarantee stochastic stability of the closed loop system.
Molecular simulations of stretching gold nanowires in solvents

The effect of solvent on the elongation of gold nanowires has been further studied through molecular simulations. For a simple Lennard-Jones solvent (propane), which is a non-bonded solvent, extensive molecular dynamics (MD) runs demonstrated that below the melting point of gold nanowires, the solvent effect on the elongation properties of Au nanowires is minimal. In thiol organic liquid, such as in benzenedithiol (BDT), the situation is much more complicated due to the Au‐BDT chemical bonding. Here, we present the initial adsorption structure of BDT on a stretched gold nanowire through grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations. A recently developed force field for the BDT‐Au chemical bonding was implemented in the simulations. We found that the packing density of the bonded BDT on the surface of Au nanowire is larger than that on an extended Au(111) surface. The results from this work are helpful in understanding the underlying mechanism of the formation of Au‐BDT‐Au junctions implemented in molecular conductance measurements. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)
Distinguishing Ecological Ground Conditions in a Rangeland Area Using a Video System with Visible/Near‐infrared/Mid‐infrared Sensitivity

Abstract This paper reports on the application of an airborne digital video imaging system with visible red (R) (0.625‐0.635 μm), near‐infrared (NIR) (0.845‐0.857 μm), and mid‐infrared (MIR) (1.631‐1.676 μm) spectral sensitivity for distinguishing among a diversity of ecological ground conditions in a rangeland area in southern Texas. The system produces false color imaging similar to that of the Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) satellite bands 5, 4, 3. Imagery from this system was useful for differentiating among a diversity of cover types including brushlands, grasslands, and wetlands. Computer analysis of the imagery showed that many of the ecological variables could be quantified. An accuracy assessment performed on the classified image showed an overall accuracy of 85%. The imagery was also useful for interpreting the coarser resolution TM. Ground radiometric reflectance measurements were made on various ecological ground types to assist in interpreting the imagery.
Including the effects of component tolerances in the teaching of courses in introductory circuit design

With the emphasis upon design in electrical and electronics curriculums, the need for coverage in circuit design courses on how manufacturer's tolerances on resistors and capacitors will affect the circuit's response is obvious. This paper develops an analytical procedure useful for the determination of these tolerances that is suitable for use in introductory classes in active and passive circuit analysis and design. The procedure allows the determination of the proper manufacturer's tolerances on the passive components such that a given tolerance on a design parameter will not be exceeded. >
Molecular electronics: devices, systems and tools for gigagate, gigabit chips

New electronics technologies are emerging which may carry us beyond the limits of lithographic processing down to molecular-scale feature sizes. Devices and interconnects can be made from a variety of molecules and materials including bistable and switchable organic molecules, carbon nanotubes, and, single-crystal semiconductor nanowires. They can be self-assembled into organized structures and attached onto lithographic substrates. This tutorial reviews emerging molecular-scale electronics technology for CAD and system designers and highlights where ICCAD research can help support this technology.
Myocardial Viability in Coronary Artery Chronic Total Occlusion

Coronary artery chronic total occlusion (CTO) has rapidly become a popular target of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Technical and technological advances required for approaching these anatomically complex and challenging lesions have progressed at an extraordinary pace and have led to amazing success rates. Patient selection, however, has primarily focused on patient symptoms, lesion characteristics, as well as the state of collateral circulation. Multiple national and international registries have been established to follow the progress of percutaneous CTO recanalization and have provided valuable information. Concern, however, exists that this challenging procedure will become the “standard of care” before its effectiveness and appropriateness is tested in prospective controlled trials. This manuscript reviews the current state of patient selection and the need for careful assessment of the presence and extent of myocardial viability prior to lengthy, resource-intensive, and potentially high-risk procedures.
Ceramic production during the Middle Horizon: Wari and Tiwanaku clay procurement in the Moquegua Valley, Peru

As the only place simultaneously occupied by the Middle Horizon (A.D. 600–1000) Andean states, the Tiwanaku and the Wari, the Moquegua Valley in southern Peru is of critical importance to understanding relations between the two states. Visual studies of Tiwanaku and Wari ceramics in the valley have elucidated differences in form and decoration. The procurement of raw clays was central to the production of these ceramics, and understanding where people procured their clay may provide insight into the social and economic interactions between these two states. Survey of the Moquegua Valley indicates the extensive availability of raw clays. Results of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) analyses of clays indicate that there is heterogeneity in the chemical signature of the valley's clays and that at least five different clay groups can be distinguished. Comparison of these clays with LA-ICP-MS analysis of ceramics from a Tiwanaku site and a Wari site demonstrates that although Tiwanaku and Wari colonists in Moquegua used locally available clays during the Middle Horizon, the clay sources exploited by potters from each state were different and derived from areas located within their respective middle and upper valley territories. This information provides a basis for future chemical analysis of ceramics from the Moquegua Valley and improved understanding of past social and economic interactions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrical Penetration Graph Analysis of the Feeding Behavior of Soybean Aphids on Soybean Cultivars With Antibiosis

The soybean aphid, Aphis glycine Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is a major pest of soybean. In the current study, we used the Electrical Penetration Graph technique to study feeding behavior of soybean aphids on antibiotic-resistant soybean lines KS1621, KS1613, and KS1642, and a susceptible soybean line, KS4202. We observed that soybean aphids spent significantly shorter periods of time in the sieve element phase but slightly more times in nonprobing phases in all three resistant lines than in the susceptible control. Our study suggests that resistance factors exist in the phloem of the resistant soybean lines, and that these lines may contain antixenosis in addition to antibiosis.
Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Guide for Nephrologists

Cardiovascular disease is a major source of morbidity and mortality for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a strong predictor of coronary artery disease and a risk factor for mortality in the general population. This is of particular interest to nephrologists because the risk for PAD is increased in CKD. Often, PAD is overlooked as a source of morbidity and as a cardiovascular risk factor in this population. This review serves as an overview of the epidemiology, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of PAD with an emphasis on CKD.
Quantitative concept mapping in pulmonary physiology: comparison of student and faculty knowledge structures.

Quantitative concept mapping, in contrast with qualitative approaches, is rigorous scientifically and permits statistical analyses of data about concept learning. This study extends past quantitati...
Analysis of supply chain coordination with integrated contract of trade credit and quantity discount

This paper considers a supply chain consisting of a supplier and a retailer. When the supplier offers the trade credit to the retailer, the retailerpsilas order quantity and the supplierpsilas cost of capital will increase, their profit and supply chainpsilas profit will change. The integrated inventory model of trade credit and quantity discount in supply chain is developed and the order quantity and the wholesale price for coordinating decentralized supply chain is deduced, and the effect of integrated contract of trade credit and quantity discount for distributing the profit and improving the operational performance of entire supply chain is analyzed. Finally the results were analyzed by conducting numerical examples.
Engineering design journey and project management

This article discusses students' self- and co-regulation during their engagement in a senior design project. The specific focus of this study was to understand how participants monitor their design process and manage their projects with their teammates. Fourteen students working in four different teams participated in the study, each of which were in their senior year of Biological Engineering courses. The study attempts to answer two research questions: (1) How did students individually monitor the progress of their team-based design project?; and (2) How did their teamwork factor into the completion of the design project? Quantitative and qualitative data associated with student regulation on design process and teamwork were collected from our Engineering Design Metacognitive Questionnaire (EDMQ) survey instrument, an innovative e-journal, students' journey maps, design artifacts, and interviews. The preliminary findings suggest that (1) despite distinctive challenges in managing their team, each found ways to adapt to their team's unique dynamic; (2) teams that believed in a “fair share” task division seemed to utilize better team monitoring strategies; and (3) a design evaluation checklist to refine the number of possible design solutions was not widely used during the problem framing phase.