cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Exploratory Study of the Biological Activity of Sunitinib as a Component of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer.

Background: The neoadjuvant setting provides an ideal opportunity to explore the impact of sunitinib alone and in combination with paclitaxel on the functional status of tumor vasculature as indicated by changes in tumor interstitial pressure (IFP) and circulating progenitor cell (CPC) subsets.Methods: Patients(pts.) with newly diagnosed stage Ic-IIIc breast cancer were treated with sunitinib monotherapy (100 mg Day 1; 37.5 mg D2-14) prior to the initiation of paclitaxel (80 mg/M2 D1,8,15 every 28 days x 4 cycles) with sunitinib (25 mg/d). IFP and CPC subsets were assessed at baseline and after sunitinib monotherapy. IFP was measured in three separate areas of the tumor using a micropressure transducer catheter; mean and highest IFP recorded were analyzed. Improvements in poly-chromatic flow cytometry allowed distinction of pro-angiogenic (pCPC = Live/AC133+CD34bright/CD31+CD45dim\), from non-angiogenic (nCPC = Live/AC133-CD34bright/CD31+/CD45dim\), CPCs that cannot be quantified separately using previously reported protocols1. Baseline CPC subsets were also compared to age and gender matched healthy controls.Results: From July 2008 to May 2009, 14 pts were enrolled; baseline and post-sunitinib IFP and CPC data are available for 12 and 11 pts respectively. The median age was 48 (range 32-69). Mean pretreatment tumor diameter was 3.2 cm. Sunitinib monotherapy was generally well tolerated; two patients developed grade III toxicities including hypertension (n=1) and hand-foot syndrome (n=1). Sunitinib significantly decreased mean IFP (18.87 mmHg vs. 6.38 mmHg; p=0.002); similar results were obtained when only the maximum IFP was considered (22.32 mmHg vs. 8.36 mmHg; p=0.003). pCPC frequency was not different between pts and healthy controls (0.099% vs. 0.076%, p=0.24) but the p:nCPC ratio was significantly higher in pts compared to healthy controls (3.26 vs. 1.46; p=0.001) suggesting a shift toward vascular damage and/or active angiogenesis. Both pCPC frequency (0.099 vs. 0.022; p=0.001) and p:nCPC ratio (3.26 vs. 0.78; p=0.001) significantly decreased after sunitinib monotherapy. Analysis of paclitaxel + sunitinib is too early (n=4).Conclusion: Sunitinib, through its effects on VEGF-mediated vascular permeability, markedly reduces tumor IFP. In addition sunitinib profoundly reduces pCPCs that are thought to be important for angiogenesis in human cancers. Accrual is ongoing (planned N=40). Analysis of IFP and CPC subsets after paclitaxel + sunitinib as well as additional correlates will be presented.1 Duda et al. (2007). Nat. Protocol 2, 805-810. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 202.
Driven by Food: Modeling Geographic Choice

In this work we study the dynamics of geographic choice, i.e., how users choose one from a set of objects in a geographic region. We postulate a model in which an object is selected from a slate of candidates with probability that depends on how far it is (distance) and how many closer alternatives exist (rank). Under a discrete choice formulation, we argue that there exists a factored form in which unknown functions of rank and distance may be combined to produce an accurate estimate of the likelihood that a user will select each alternative. We then learn these hidden functions and show that each can be closely approximated by an appropriately parameterized lognormal, even though the respective marginals look quite different. We give a theoretical justification to support the presence of lognormal distributions.We then apply this framework to study restaurant choices in map search logs. We show that a four-parameter model based on combinations of lognormals has excellent performance at predicting restaurant choice, even compared to baseline models with access to the full (densely parameterized) marginal distribution for rank and distance. Finally, we show how this framework can be extended to simultaneously learn a per-restaurant quality score representing the residual likelihood of choice after distance and rank have been accounted for. We show that, compared to a per-place score that predicts likelihood without factoring out rank and distance, our score is a significantly better predictor of user quality judgments.
Robust and Retunable State Realizations of Transfer Functions with known Poles and Zeros

The standard controllable and observable canonical realizations have A-matrices whose eigenvalue locations are highly sensitive to small perturbations to the nonzero entries of the A-matrix that correspond to the coefficients of the characteristic polynomial. On the other hand, the eigenvalue locations of tridiagonal A-matrices are relatively insensitive to similar perturbations. Given a set of known poles and zeros from which the transfer function of a SISO is computed, this paper details an approach to state space realizations with tridiagonal A-matrices using a genetic algorithm and the equivalence of the realization with the controllable canonical form. In addition to the insensitivity of the tridiagonal realization to perturbations, an additional genetic algorithm is used to reconfigure input and output matrices when nonzero gains in the B- and C-matrices are perturbed to zero, i.e., disconnections (shorts/opens) which account for over 70% of field failures. The reconfigured matrices achieve an equivalent realization, thereby maintaining the same input–output behavior. Reconfigurable systems are critical to maintaining exact input–output behavior (automatically) without being able to repair the disconnection.
A framework for the analysis of dynamic processes based on Bayesian networks and case-based reasoning

Abstract Bayesian networks are knowledge representation schemes that can capture probabilistic relationships among variables and perform probabilistic inference. Arrival of new evidence propagates through the network until all variables are updated. At the end of propagation, the network becomes a static snapshot representing the state of the domain for that particular time. This weakness in capturing temporal semantics has limited the use of Bayesian networks to domains in which time dependency is not a critical factor. This paper describes a framework that combines Bayesian networks and case-based reasoning to create a knowledge representation scheme capable of dealing with time-varying processes. Static Bayesian network topologies are learned from previously available raw data and from sets of constraints describing significant events. These constraints are defined as sets of variables assuming significant values. As new data are gathered, dynamic changes to the topology of a Bayesian network are assimilated using techniques that combine single-value decomposition and minimum distance length. The new topologies are capable of forecasting the occurrences of significant events given specific conditions and monitoring changes over time. Since environment problems are good examples of temporal variations, the problem of forecasting ozone levels in Mexico City was used to test this framework.
The Set Point of Glass in Glass‐to‐Metal Sealing

The stress-relaxation theory of glass was extended to calculate the net strains developed in a glass-to-metal seal which, in turn, was used to calculate a set point of glass which can be shown to depend not only on the cooling rates but also, to some extent, on the metal used. The importance of the knowledge of the glass expansion in the transition range is recognized. Calculated net strains reveal that for those glass-to-metal sealing operations where rapid cooling is used, the calculated effective differential expansion differs significantly from the conventionally quoted 25° to 300°C value. An empirical equation is proposed to relate the set point primarily to the seal cooling rate.
9.1.1 Validation: Losing its Differentiation from Verification?

There has been a recent and large shift in the use and emphasis of the term validation in the practice of systems engineering. At the same time, the term has developed a wide variety of definitions and interpretations. As unintended consequence, it has lost some of the emphasis on the real world that it was intended to provide. Since a simple definition that covers all interpretations is not a likely outcome, systems engineers need to understand the breadth of the current usage and the actions to take to avoid missing key components.
Influence of Ultrasound on Crystal Growth from Solution and Related Flow Visualization

The influence of 3 MHz ultrasound on the growth of GaAs layers by liquid-phase epitaxy was investigated. Ultrasound caused morphological changes in the solid−liquid interface. Distilled water and g...
1-pentene hydroformylation using the mixed-metal cluster Fe2Co2(Co)11(μ4-PPh)2: cylindrical internal reflectance evidence for cluster catalysis

Abstract The mixed-metal cluster Fe 2 Co 2 (CO) 11 (μ 4 -PPh) 2 (1) has been found to catalyze the hydroformylation of 1 -pentene to hexanal and 2-methyl-pentanal in moderate to high yield under mild batch conditions. Cluster catalysis is suggested based on FT-IR and HPLC analyses of the final reaction solutions, and in situ Cylindrical Internal Reflectance measurements of the working catalyst solution. A closo→nido polyhedral transformation in cluster 1 is proposed as the entry point into the catalytic cycle.
Predictors of high symptom burden in gynecologic oncology outpatients: who should be referred to outpatient palliative care?

Abstract Objective To characterize symptom prevalence in gynecologic oncology outpatients and identify predictors of high symptom burden. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of a convenience sample of symptom surveys from gynecologic oncology patients at a single cancer center over a 20-month period. The survey was based on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS), and assessed pain, depression, anxiety, fatigue and well-being. Information on demographics, disease, treatment and history of chronic pain, depression or anxiety was abstracted from medical records. Data was analyzed with descriptive and t-test statistics. Results We analyzed 305 surveys from unique patients. Symptom prevalence (severity score > 0/10) ranged from 60.1% (pain) to 79.7% (fatigue). Prevalence of moderate to severe symptoms (score ≥ 4/10) ranged from 32% (pain) to 47% (fatigue). There were no differences in symptom burden by site or stage of cancer. Patients with no active disease (38%) were less symptomatic. There was a trend toward higher symptom burden in patients younger than 50 years. There was higher symptom burden in patients receiving cancer treatment or with a pre-existing history of pain, anxiety or depression. Patients who expressed an interest in being seen by a symptom management service also had higher symptom burden. Conclusions Gynecologic oncology outpatients have a high symptom burden regardless of stage and site of cancer. Patients who are young, on treatment or have a history of chronic pain, depression or anxiety have a higher symptom burden. Consideration should be given to targeting these patients for outpatient palliative care services.
Reconstitution of the histologic characteristics of a giant congenital nevomelanocytic nevus employing the athymic mouse and a cultured skin substitute.

Abstract This study addresses the development of an animal model for human giant congenital nevomelanocytic nevi (GCNN). Skin grafts were made from 1) non-involved split-thickness skin from a 12-month-old GCNN patient, 2) nevus split-thickness skin from the same GCNN patient, 3) nevus full-thickness skin, and 4) cadaveric human split-thickness skin. For groups 1) and 2), human epidermal and dermal cells were enzymatically isolated and expanded in tissue culture. Composite grafts were made by placing the cultured dermal cells into a collagen-glycosaminoglycan (GAG) matrix, followed by placement of the epidermal cells onto the opposite, laminated side of the matrix. All grafts were placed onto full-thickness wounds of athymic mice and biopsies were obtained from 6 to 38 weeks later for light microscopy including S-100 immunoperoxidase staining, and electron microscopy. The GCNN cultured skin mice (group 2) developed black, raised skin in the healed wounds. None of the group 1 mice developed lesions, grossly or histologically. All of the nevus full-thickness mice retained the nevus grossly. Histopathologic examination at 38 weeks of the black, raised plaques of group 2 demonstrated a reconstituted dermis similar to group 3. Nevus cells were larger and more epithelioid in the upper dermis, as seen with true GCNN. These nevomelanocytes were not seen in the dermis at 24 weeks, suggesting that the nevus cells migrated from the epidermal component of the cultured graft to the dermis during this time frame (24–38 weeks). The melanocyte identity of these cells was confirmed with S-100 immunoperoxidase staining and electron microscopy. These findings are unique to this composite cultured graft system. The ability to culture specific types of melanocytes and place them into skin substitutes on athymic mice provides a basis for the study of GCNN and melanocyte biology in vivo.
Melatonin induced changes in gonads; pelage and thermogenic characters in the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus.

Abstract 1. Pellets containing 3·1 mg melatonin and 12·4 mg beeswax were subcutaneously implanted in warm exposed mice. Controls received 15·5 mg pellets of beeswax. 2. Mice treated with melatonin exhibited regression of the reproductive system, a fall moult, hypertrophy of interscapular brown fat, and an increase in basal metabolic rate relative to controls.
Factors influencing particle selection and feeding rate in the polychaete Cistenides (Pectinaria) gouldii

Feeding behavior of the deposit feeding polychaete Cistenides (Pectinaria) gouldii was examined to determine factors affecting particle selection and feeding rate. Worms were found to select large particles preferentially and particle size selection increased with worm size. Particle selection behavior was unaffected by changes in sediment bacterial abundance. Feeding rates were affected by sediment size, bacterial density and worm size. Generally feeding rates increased in sediment containing more food, although the response was worm size specific. When viewed in a theoretical construct these results were inconsistent with predictions of deposit feeder optimal foraging models. Alternative explanations, such as morphological constraints placed upon the polychaete, may explain C. gouldii feeding behavior.
The role of radiation therapy in clinical Stage I carcinoma of the endometrium.

Abstract The survival experience of 321 patients with carcinoma of the endometrium is described. Of the 287 patients who had definitive surgery, 94% were clinical Stage 1; the proportion of patients having a more advanced pathologic stage as determined at surgery correlated with histology grade: grade 1, 3.5%; grade 2, 22% and grade 3, 55%. The 5 year survival results are analyzed according to clinical stage and treatment policy i.e. initial surgery with postoperative radiation reserved for selected patients vs preoperative radium or external beam therapy followed by surgery. The results indicate that for the operable patients whose disease is clinical Stage I with grade 1 histology, no preoperative radiation therapy is needed For the patient with grade 2 histology, the improved survival with preoperative radiation therapy was not statistically significant; however, the difference in recurrence rates was significant and preoperative therapy therefore is recommended. Preoperative radiation resulted in improved survival for clinical Stage I, grade 3 patients and its use is essential to provide these patients with the best chance of cure.
Do We Have the Infant Mortality Rate We Desire

WHY DO we decry the United States' infant mortality rate? Don't we have the rate we want? Sarcasm? Yes. Overstatement? No! If we polled the nation's political and health care leaders about these questions, they would hasten to dismiss them as sheer nonsense. After all, everyone knows how tragic it is that the United States ranks behind essentially all industrialized nations in infant mortality. Furthermore, our poor standing is not just a matter of variance in reporting; we really do very poorly when compared with other, similar nations. Thus, there seems to be a clear answer to the first question, "Of course we decry the infant mortality rate, we are doing very poorly." The second question cannot be dismissed as easily. If we do not have the rate we desire, what are we doing to change the situation? Government leaders will note that we are providing more money for underprivileged
Charles Bachman Moore (1920-2010)

[1] Charles B. Moore passed away 2 March 2010 at the age of 89, following a long and varied scientific career in meteorology and the atmospheric sciences. He will be remembered best for his substantial contributions in the field of atmospheric electricity and for the students and faculty he guided as chairman of Langmuir Laboratory for Atmospheric Research and professor of physics at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. He possessed a unique sense of humor and an excellent memory that served as a reservoir of scientific and historical knowledge. Like many of his generation, Charlie's career was profoundly influenced by the Second World War. Following Pearl Harbor, he interrupted his undergraduate studies in chemical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology to enlist in the Army Air Corps, where he became the chief weather equipment officer in the 10th Weather Squadron, setting up and operating remote meteorological stations behind enemy lines in the China-Burma-India theater. He served with distinction alongside Athelstan Spilhaus Sr., who had been one of Charlie's instructors in the Army meteorology program.
050 The Angiogenesis Inhibitor Endostatin Impairs Wound Healing at Tumor‐inhibiting Doses

Introduction: Angiogenesis is thought to be important for granulation tissue formation and for the delivery oxygen and other nutrients to the healing wound bed. We examined whether angiogenesis inhibitors (AI) such as endostatin decrease neovascularization in full-thickness wounds leading to impaired granulation tissue formation and delayed wound closure. Methods: Endostatin at tumor-inhibiting doses (20 mg/kg/BID) was injected daily starting three days prior to surgery. Two full-thickness wounds were created on the mouse dorsum using a novel wound healing model developed in our lab. A second experimental group had topical VEGF (10 μg/QD) applied to these wounds. Both groups were compared to PBS-treated controls. Wounds were analyzed for closure time, granulation tissue formation, and wound vascularity using CD31. Results: Endostatin-treatment delayed wound closure compared to control mice (17.4d ± 1.51 vs. 12.8 ± 0.89, P < 0.05), resulted in decreased granulation tissue formation at all time points (P < 0.05), and significantly reduced wound vascularity as measured by CD31+ vessel counts (P < 0.05). VEGF application to the wound bed of endostatin-treated mice normalized wound closure despite endostatin treatment (13.8d ± 1.1 vs. 17.44d ± 1.51, P < 0.05). Conclusion: Endostatin impairs wound angiogenesis, granulation tissue formation and delays full-thickness wound closure. Topical VEGF was able to reverse this effect and may represent a novel approach to improve wound healing in patients receiving AI. These findings may have serious implications for patients undergoing AI treatment that require surgery or who have wound healing complications. Acknowledgements: This project received no outside funding.
Effect of the Vrn1‐Fr1 Interval on Cold Hardiness Levels in Near‐Isogenic Wheat Lines

We investigated the feasibility of cold hardiness manipulation in wheat, Triticum aestivum L., with the Vrn1-Fr1 interval on chromosome 5AL. The interval contains a gene(s) that has influenced vernalization requirements and cold hardiness levels. We conducted LT 50 tests (lethal temperature of 50% of plants) on wheat NILs (near-isogenic lines) that differed for alleles at the Vrn1-Fr1 interval, to determine the effects of the interval on cold hardiness levels between hardy and nonhardy wheat. The NILs were derived from five backcrosses between a spring wheat recurrent parent, 'Marfed', and two winter wheat donor parents, 'Suweon 185' and 'Chugoku 81', hardy and nonhardy, respectively. The developed populations were Suweon 185/6*Marfed and Chugoku 81/6*Marfed spring and winter NILs. Results showed that the winter NILs could tolerate a 4.3 °C colder LT 50 score than the spring NILs, and that the Suweon 185/6*Marfed winter NILs could tolerate a 0.5 °C colder LT 50 than Chugoku 81/ 6*Marfed winter NILs. Results indicate that the Vrn1-Fr1 interval explained between 71 and 91% of the variation for LT 50 scores between these genotypes. The NILs were analyzed with the probe Xwg644 to confirm linkage with the Vrn1-Fr1 interval and to determine its utility as a marker for vernalization requirement and cold hardiness. EcoRI-digested DNA of the winter and spring NIL wheat, probed with Xwg644, showed that a 9.7-kb band co-segregated with the winter growth habit. Results indicate that differences in cold hardiness levels between winter wheat cultivars may be explained by this interval and that the interval may be manipulated through plant breeding to improve the cold hardiness of cultivars.
On Communication in Distributed Constraint Satisfaction

Distributed Constraint Satisfaction Problems (DCSP) is a general framework for multi-agent coordination and conflict resolution. While inter-agent communication in most DCSP algorithms is restricted to only exchanging values of variables, this paper provides a detailed experimental investigation of the impact of inter-agent exchange of additional legal values among agents, within a collaborative setting. We present a new run-time model that takes into account the overhead of the additional communication in various computing/networking environments and show that DCSP strategies with extra communication can lead to significant performance improvement in realistic domains.
Experiences structuring software in a periodic real-time environment

This paper describes experiences in structuring software for an aircraft ‘flying laboratory’ used in a variety of scientific experiments in the areas of geophysics, oceanography and advanced navigation. The software is required to operate in a hard real-time fashion, processing a number of streams of sampled sensor data within the time interval defined by corresponding periodic sampling clocks. The operational software for this system is structured into a number of real-time periodic processes which are executed under the control of a real-time kernel developed for this environment. Both the scheduler used in the real-time kernel and the structuring of the various processes in the system are described in detail. Various other aspects of the system along with experiences gained over a development life cycle are noted.
Incorporation of radioisotope, in vivo, into ribonucleic acid and histone of a fraction of nuclei preparing for mitosis.

Abstract Following the administration of radioisotope in vivo, nuclei were isolated from regenerating rat liver and separated into two fractions, one of which consisted of nuclei which had increased their DNA content preparatory to mitosis. In this premitotic fraction of nuclei, both RNA and histone were more highly labeled than in the fraction of nuclei with a normal DNA content. It was concluded that histone and DNA are synthesized during the same period, and that there is an increase in the synthesis of nuclear RNA immediately following the cessation of DNA synthesis.
Estimating the autocorrelation function of an arbitrarily time-variant system response

We present a technique for determining the autocorrelation of an arbitrarily time-variant system response. Our approach relies on a key relation, introduced in [1], between the system response autocorrelation function and certain 2nd and 4th order moments of the system input and (noisy) output signals, with no other prior information about the dynamics of the system response required. We introduce a “Wiener problem” interpretation of this key relation, which enables us to benefit from the wealth of existing results about the dynamics and performance of standard adaptive filters. In particular, we propose time-recursive estimates for the system response autocorrelation, with significantly reduced computational cost, as compared to previously proposed (nonrecursive) estimates. Moreover, our procedure can also be customized to track (slow) variations in the system response autocorrelation when such variations are present. We use an example to demonstrate the advantage of applying standard adaptive algorithms such as LMS, NLMS or RLS to obtain an estimate of the desired system response autocorrelation.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 232, 236, 240

Abstract The available experimental data pertaining to the nuclear structure of nuclei with mass numbers A = 232, 236, and 240 are compiled. The results from various decay and reaction measurements, as available through October 1976, are compared and evaluated. Q-values referenced as 75ScYK are obtained from a least-squares adjustment as explained in Table 3, 76Sc02.
Classification of monosubstituted phenyl rings by parametric methods applied to infrared and raman peak heights

Abstract A statistical linear discriminant method is used to determine if a carbon, nitrogen or oxygen atom is bonded to a monosubstituted phenyl ring. A pattern vector is developed using peak heights of each of the seventeen active infrared and sixteen active Raman bands characteristic of the ring vibration. The Sadtler Standard Raman Spectra, which includes infrared spectra, served as the data base. The success rate is compared for the use of infrared data only. Raman data only and combined infrared and Raman data normalized by several possible methods.
Improvements to a GPS radio occultation ray-tracing model and their impacts on assimilation of bending angle

[1] Several efforts are made to improve the accuracy and efficiency of a 2-D GPS radio occultation forward ray-tracing model. First, a large impact parameter offset existed in the forward model, caused by the inconsistency in the definition of the “occultation point” between the forward model and the GPS/MET data. The forward model is modified to be consistent with the GPS/MET data. Second, the errors in the simulation of the impact parameter and the bending angle due to the original starting point scheme of the ray integration are examined and a new starting point scheme is introduced to reduce the forward modeling errors. Third, to more accurately simulate the GPS/MET bending angle data, a derivation of the bending angle from a Doppler shift measurement under the application of Snell's law is incorporated into the ray-tracing model. Fourth, a variable step size for the ray integration is proposed to the forward ray-tracing model to reduce its computational cost. Assessment of the impacts of these modifications to the forward modeling of the bending angle and to the data assimilation of the bending angle is carried out with simulated bending angles and impact parameters derived from an accurate 3-D ray-tracing model. The 3-D ray-tracing model simulates a total of 133 occultation profiles with the actual satellite positions and velocities taken from the 133 GPS/MET occultations observed on 11 October 1995. The NCEP analysis at T126L28 resolution is used to represent the “true” refractivity field of the atmosphere. The bending angles and impact parameters in the 3-D ray-tracing model are derived following the same data processing procedure used in the GPS/MET experiment. All the input parameters (e.g., the tangent direction at the perigee point, etc.) required by the 2-D ray-tracing model are provided by the 3-D ray-tracing model. Numerical results with and without the above mentioned modifications to the 2-D ray-tracing model are examined and compared with the 3-D ray-tracing model results and the NCEP T126L28 analysis. It is shown that the modifications to the 2-D ray-tracing model significantly reduce the errors in the forward simulation of the bending angle and the impact parameter, and thus greatly improve the accuracy of the temperature, specific humidity, and surface pressure field analyses produced by GPS data assimilation, especially in middle and lower troposphere.
The recycling of apolipoprotein E and its amino-terminal 22 kDa fragment: evidence for multiple redundant pathways

A portion of apolipoprotein E (apoE) internalized by hepatocytes is spared degradation and is recycled. To investigate the intracellular routing of recycling apoE, primary hepatocyte cultures from LDL receptor-deficient mice and mice deficient in receptor-associated protein [a model of depressed expression of LDL receptor-related protein (LRP)] were incubated with human VLDL containing 125I-labeled human recombinant apoE3. Approximately 30% of the internalized intact apoE was recycled after 4 h. The N-terminal 22 kDa fragment of apoE was also resecreted, demonstrating that this apoE domain contains sufficient sequence to recycle. The 22 kDa fragment has reduced affinity for lipoproteins, suggesting that apoE recycling is linked to the ability of apoE to bind directly to a recycling receptor. Finally, apoE was found to recycle equally well in the presence of brefeldin A, a drug that blocks transport from the endoplasmic reticulum and leads to collapse of the Golgi stacks. Our studies demonstrate that apoE recycling occurs 1) in the absence of the LDL receptor or under conditions of markedly reduced LRP expression; 2) when apoE lacks the carboxyl-terminal domain, which allows binding to the lipoprotein; and 3) in the absence of an intact Golgi apparatus. We conclude that apoE recycling occurs through multiple redundant pathways.
The vascular pathogenesis of gastroschisis: Intrauterine interruption of the omphalomesenteric artery

Recognition of the disruptive vascular nature of the structural defects associated with gastroschisis and an appreciation of the embryology of the umbilical region suggest that gastroschisis results from an intrauterine interruption of the omphalomesenteric artery. This mechanism accounts for the usual location of gastroschisis to the right of the umbilical cord, the integrity of the rectus muscles in affected children, and many of the clinically observed differences between gastroschisis and omphalocele. The vascular basis of this defect explains its negligible recurrence risk and should alert the clinician to the possibility of concomitant structural defects of a similar pathogenesis.
Ultrathin film growth of p-phenylene oligomers on alkali halide substrates

Abstract Controlled growth of the aromatic p -phenylene oligomer molecules ( p -quaterphenyl, p -quinquephenyl, and p -sexiphenyl) adsorbed onto individual KBr(0 0 1), KCl(0 0 1), NaCl(0 0 1), and NaF(0 0 1) substrates has been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD analysis provides evidence that the temperature of the alkali halide substrate during deposition, substrate lattice constant, and molecular length affect the molecular orientations within these adsorbed ultrathin films. From this work, oriented films of the above-mentioned p -phenylene oligomer molecules can therefore be grown with varying molecular orientations by careful selection of an appropriate combination of the above deposition parameters.
Infrared Spectroscopy of Symbiotic Stars. I. Orbits for Well-Known S-Type Systems

First results are reported for a program of monitoring symbiotic-star velocities in the 1.6 μm region with infrared-array technology. Infrared radial velocities have been used to determine single-lined spectroscopic orbits for six well-known symbiotic stars, EG And, T CrB, CI Cyg, BX Mon, RS Oph, and AG Peg. The new orbits are in general agreement with previous orbits derived from optical velocities. From the combined optical and infrared velocities improved orbital elements for the six systems have been determined. Each of the orbital periods has been determined solely from the radial-velocity data. With the addition of our new velocities, the orbital period of BX Mon has been revised to 1259 days, a 10% decrease from the previously reported result.
New developments in the theory of X-ray absorption and core photoemission

Abstract There has been dramatic progress over the past decade both in theory and in ab initio calculations of X-ray absorption spectra (XAS) and core level X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS). The theory of X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) is now reasonably well understood, and rapid progress is now being made in understanding X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES). This talk reviews the developments in this field by many groups leading up to the current state. These developments have led to several ab initio codes which permit a quantitative interpretation of the spectra in terms of geometrical and electronic properties of a material. High-order multiple scattering (MS) theory can give an approximate treatment of XANES, but this approach can fail close to an edge, where full MS calculations are often necessary. Nevertheless a fully quantitative treatment of XANES remains challenging, due to a number of many-body effects, e.g. the approximate treatment of the core-hole, multiplet effects, the photoelectron self energy, and inelastic losses. Essentially the same underlying theory has been applied to a number of other spectroscopies such as XPS, anomalous X-ray scattering (AXS), DAFS (diffraction anomalous fine structure) and XMCD (X-ray magnetic circular dichroism). These developments are illustrated with a number of applications.
The effect of coca and FDI on the level of corruption in Bolivia

This paper analyzes the causes of corruption in contemporary Bolivia. It argues that, along with the well-documented observation that richer countries tend, on average, to be less corrupt than poorer ones, corruption is directly dependent on FDI inflows, with higher levels of FDI associated with lower levels of corruption and vice versa. Additionally, the findings reveal that a less controlled, more permissive market for coca leaves actually reduces the level of corruption in the country, supporting the hypothesis that the way to a less corrupt Bolivia is by lowering government intervention into this controversial market.
EFFECT OF BENZYL ALCOHOL ON CORD BLOOD SERUM LACTATE DEHYDROGENASE (LDH): A POSSIBLE MARKER OF DRUG TOXICITY

Benzyl alcohol (BA) is a preservative present in several medications including multiple dose vials for flush solutions. Neonatal BA toxicity consists of metabolic acidosis, CNS-depression, respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse and death. The cardiac toxicity may be manifested by changes of serum LDH. This study reports the in vitro effect of BA on “H” and “M” isoenzymes of LDH in cord blood of 12 healthy neonates. The LDH of the “H” subunit was 733 IU compared to 3,113 for the “M” isoenzyme. The addition of BA to the enzymatic reaction mixture inhibited LDH in a dose-dependent fashion. A 39% and 61% inhibition of LDH isoenzyme “H” was produced by 60 mMol and 120 mMol of BA, respectively. The “M” isoenzyme was less sensitive to the BA effect, i.e., a concentration of 120 mMol BA was required to produce a 34% inhibition. The kinetics performed indicate that BA competitively inhibited the “H” subunit of LDH. The apparent Km was increased by approximately 3.6 fold by the 120 mMol BA addition. The results show that the BA-produced inhibition of the “H” subunit was greater than that noted for the “M” isoenzyme. This inhibition, if found in vivo, may be utilized as a biochemical marker for BA-induced toxicity in the neonate.
Compression of lipid membranes as observed at varying membrane positions.

We have measured the microscopic isothermal compressibility of dioleoyl- and dimyristyl-phosphatidylcholine multilayers and bilayers as a function of membrane depth by the pressure dependence of the polarization of a series of anthroyloxy fatty acids. In both systems, within experimental error, the compressibility did not change with membrane depth. The magnitudes of the compressibilities matched those of organic solids and those reported for dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine multilayers from neutron diffraction measurements (Braganza, L. F., and D. L. Worcester. 1986. Biochemistry, 25:7484–7488). The bilayer compressibility decreased with temperature and this decrease was similar with membrane depth consistent with the isotropic thermal expansion of membranes previously observed (Scarlata, S. 1989. Biophys. J. 55:1215–1223). The vertical compressibility in the z direction is much lower than the horizontal (xy planes) for probes that lie parallel to the hydrocarbon chains which is consistent with an increase in bilayer thickness. The compressibility for probes that lie perpendicular to the hydrocarbon chains is more isotropic due to their limited spatial access to the z plane.
Cleavage duplexes in the Marcellus Shale of the Appalachian foreland

Abstract Cleavage duplexes are zones of platy, spaced cleavage, that either parallel bedding or ramp through shale sections. Examples are 2–60 m thick. The cleavage within the zones is generally subperpendicular to the zone boundaries but sigmoidally dragged against floor, roof and internal thrusts. Between the well-developed floor thrust and the more obscure roof thrusts of the duplexes the shale has been shortened >30% perpendicular to cleavage. The thrusts are sharp strain discontinuities because both overlying and underlying shale is uncleaved and less deformed (
I want to know: exploring how older women acquire health knowledge after a myocardial infarction.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this descriptive naturalistic study was to: (a) explore how older women not participating in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR) acquire health knowledge regarding secondary prevention measures after a myocardial infarction (MI), and (b) describe women's perceived barriers to acquiring this knowledge. Women (N = 15), ages 66–88, participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data analysis resulted in four global categories: (a) previous learning, (b) self knowledge, (c) actively seeking knowledge from others, and (d) information provided by others. Barriers to acquiring health knowledge after MI without the support of outpatient CR were also identified.
Is there a Relationship between Death Anxiety and Engagement in Lethal Behaviors among African-American Students?

Two hundred and fifty-four African-American students volunteered to examine the relationship between death anxiety and engagement in lethal behavior. A three-part questionnaire was administered: Parts I and II of the questionnaire consisted of the Revised Death Anxiety Scale (RDAS) and the Lethal Behaviors Scale (LBS). Part III of the questionnaire consisted of questions about demography. The research was designed to assess the effect of gender, age, income, and geographic location on the relationship between death anxiety and lethal behavior. Chi square, ANOVA, and Multiple Regression analyses were employed to calculate the results. Findings include: 1) an inverse relationship exists between death anxiety and engagement in lethal behaviors, 2) females scored higher than males on the RDAS, 3) males scored higher than females on the LBS, and 4) income significantly effected Lethal Behavior Scale scores.
Total-body bone mineral content in non-corticosteroid-treated postpubertal females with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: frequency of osteopenia and contributing factors.

Objective To determine the extent of low total-body bone mineral content (BMC) in non–corticosteroid-treated white postpubertal females with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) compared with healthy age- and race-matched female controls, and to identify variables that significantly contribute to total-body BMC. Methods Thirty-six females with definite JRA who had never received corticosteroids and 51 healthy female controls were evaluated. All subjects had had their first menstrual period at least 2 years prior to enrollment. Total-body BMC, lumbar spine bone mineral density, and body composition were determined by dual x-ray absorptiometry. Total-body BMC Z-scores were calculated for JRA patients using data from controls. JRA patients were dichotomized into those with “normal” bone mass (total-body BMC at or above the mean or no more than 1 SD below the mean) and those with “low” bone mass (total-body BMC more than 1 SD below the mean). Comparisons of anthropometric measurements, laboratory measurements of bone metabolism, disease activity, dietary intake, and physical activity were performed. Stepwise logistic regression was utilized to determine the presence or absence of low total-body BMC and to identify associated contributing factors. Results Total-body BMC was 4.5% lower in JRA patients than in controls (mean ± SD 2,050 ± 379 gm versus 2,143 ± 308 gm; P = 0.21). Twenty-five of 36 patients (69.4%) had “normal” and 11 of 36 (30.6%) had “low” total-body BMC. Comparison of JRA patients with “normal” versus those with “low” total-body BMC revealed significant differences in disease characteristics, anthropometric and physical development characteristics, laboratory measures of bone mineralization, and dietary intake. The final regression model contained only lean mass (P = 0.01), which accounted for 76.3% of the variance in total-body BMC. The odds ratio for lean mass was 0.4451 (95% confidence interval 0.2374–0.8348). Conclusion In this study, ∼30% of the subjects in a sample of postpubertal female patients with mild-to-moderate, non–corticosteroid-treated JRA had low bone mass. The predictor variable that significantly contributed to total-body BMC was lean mass, which demonstrated a protective effect of 0.56 risk reduction for low total-body BMC.
Assessing the Fate of Ascaris suum Ova during Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion

There is limited knowledge about the survival of geohelminths, which are soil-transmitted human pathogens, in mesophilic anaerobic digestion processes. This study examined the fate of embryonated and unembryonated Ascaris suum ova in six laboratory-scale mesophilic (35 °C) anaerobic digesters processing swine manure to identify their survival strategies and investigate potential mechanisms to enhance their destruction. There was no significant difference in inactivation of Ascaris suum ova in digesters operated at different solids residence times (SRT) or feeding frequencies. Ova exposed to an anaerobic environment became dormant, or remained unembryonated throughout their residence in the reactors. Approximately 65% of ova were able to retain their viability for up to 16 days, after which the rate of inactivation increased until nearly all ova were nonviable by day 24. In contrast, ova exposed to aerobic conditions did not become dormant and progressed through several developmental stages until day 16, after which nearly all ova were observed to be nonviable. In addition, only 35% of fully developed ova exposed to the anaerobic environment retained their viability by day 16 compared to 65% for dormant ova. Results suggest that some ova are physically destroyed during digestion and ova can be inactivated faster if their development cycle is aerobically triggered before entering the anaerobic digestion process. Results also suggest that transfer of resource recovery technologies such as mesophilic anaerobic digestion to developing world settings must account for local climatic and health conditions so mutually beneficial outcomes can be attained.
Design and performance of a soft X-ray interferometer for ultra-high resolution Fourier transform spectroscopy

A Fourier Transform Soft X-ray spectrometer (FT-SX) has been designed and is under construction for the Advanced Light Source (ALS) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory as a branch of beamline 9.3.2. The spectrometer is a novel soft x-ray interferometer designed for ultra-high resolution (theoretical resolving power E/{delta}E{approx}10{sup 6}) spectroscopy in the photon energy region of 60-120 eV. This instrument is expected to provide experimental results which sensitively test models of correlated electron processes in atomic molecular physics. The design criteria and consequent technical challenges posed by the short wavelengths of x-rays and desired resolving power are discussed. The fundamental and practical aspects of soft x-ray interferometry are also explored.
The failure of the Arab oil weapon in 1973–1974

Abstract The Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEQ stated that the 1973–1974 oil embargo was designed to force Israel to return the territory captured in 1967, alter the status of Jerusalem, and restore the rights of the Palestinians. It seemed in a strong position to ensure compliance with its demands since it controlled a large proportion of oil exports and had impressive financial resources, while the industrial countries had no available substitutes and limited stockpiles. Nonetheless, OAPEC failed to achieve its goals because it had little leverage over its real target, Israel, and because it was unable to effectively reward its friends and punish its enemies. The failure of the Arab oil embargo to accomplish its political purpose in 1973–1974 casts doubt on the political utility of such an embargo in the future and, indeed, on the political utility of economic embargoes in general.
Elastic constant degradation from microcracking in ceramic-ceramic composites cycled by slow thermal loading

Abstract The changes in stiffness due to microcracking of a Nicalon/CAS-II unidirectional composite resulting from slow cyclic heating and cooling were investigated. Stiffness measurements were taken using an ultrasonic through-transmission method by longitudinal wave propagation. It was shown that slow cooling rates result in a decrease in C 22 and C 33 , suggesting interface debonding.
The effects of diabetes on placental aromatase activity

Diabetes complicates 2-3% of all pregnancies and is associated with an increase in both perinatal morbidity and mortality, though reasons for these adverse outcomes are unknown. Estrogen biosynthesis is a critical factor during pregnancy and is carried out in the placenta via aromatase (cytochrome P450 19A1), which catalyzes the conversion of C-19 androgens to C-18 estrogens. Previous studies have shown that hormones such as insulin-like growth factors and insulin regulate aromatase activity when studied in vitro. Interestingly, levels of these hormones are altered in patients with diabetes. Thus, we hypothesized that the presence of maternal diabetes may alter placental aromatase activity and thus estrogen biosynthesis, possibly serving as one factor in the adverse outcomes of babies born to mothers with diabetes. To this end, we measured the production of 19-hydroxyandrostenedione, 19-oxoadrostenedione and estrone in 30 placental tissues from diabetic patients, using [7-3H]androst-4-ene-3,17-dione as a model substrate for aromatase (P450 19A1). A statistical difference was detected in the percentage of 19-oxoandrostenedione formed between the overt and control groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, NADPH P450-reductase levels were measured in these same tissues to determine whether alterations in this enzyme necessary for aromatase activity could be affected by diabetes. No differences in reductase levels were detected among the patient groups. However, a statistical correlation was found between NADPH P450-reductase activity and the formation velocities of all three estrogen products (P < 0.05). Thus, it appears that the presence of diabetes does not affect placental aromatase activity.