cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
WE-G-BRD-06: Volumetric Cine MRI (VC-MRI) Estimated Based On Prior Knowledge for On-Board Target Localization

Purpose: To develop a technique to generate on-board VC-MRI using patient prior 4D-MRI, motion modeling and on-board 2D-cine MRI for real-time 3D target verification of liver and lung radiotherapy. Methods: The end-expiration phase images of a 4D-MRI acquired during patient simulation are used as patient prior images. Principal component analysis (PCA) is used to extract 3 major respiratory deformation patterns from the Deformation Field Maps (DFMs) generated between end-expiration phase and all other phases. On-board 2D-cine MRI images are acquired in the axial view. The on-board VC-MRI at any instant is considered as a deformation of the prior MRI at the end-expiration phase. The DFM is represented as a linear combination of the 3 major deformation patterns. The coefficients of the deformation patterns are solved by matching the corresponding 2D slice of the estimated VC-MRI with the acquired single 2D-cine MRI. The method was evaluated using both XCAT (a computerized patient model) simulation of lung cancer patients and MRI data from a real liver cancer patient. The 3D-MRI at every phase except end-expiration phase was used to simulate the ground-truth on-board VC-MRI at different instances, and the center-tumor slice was selected to simulate the on-board 2D-cine images. Results: Image subtraction of ground truth with estimated on-board VC-MRI shows fewer differences than image subtraction of ground truth with prior image. Excellent agreement between profiles was achieved. The normalized cross correlation coefficients between the estimated and ground-truth in the axial, coronal and sagittal views for each time step were >= 0.982, 0.905, 0.961 for XCAT data and >= 0.998, 0.911, 0.9541 for patient data. For XCAT data, the maximum-Volume-Percent-Difference between ground-truth and estimated tumor volumes was 1.6% and the maximum-Center-of-Mass-Shift was 0.9 mm. Conclusion: Preliminary studies demonstrated the feasibility to estimate real-time VC-MRI for on-board target localization before or during radiotherapy treatments. National Institutes of Health Grant No. R01-CA184173; Varian Medical System
Effects of lecture, rehearsal, written homework, and IQ on the efficacy of a rational emotive school mental health program

The effect of a rational emotive school mental health program on irrational ideation, neuroticism, and trait anxiety was examined. Ninety-six fourth grade children of high or lower IQ served as subjects. They were given twelve group sessions of rational emotive mental health education (REE) in one of the following conditions: REE lectures, REE lectures plus behavior rehearsal, REE lectures plus rehearsal and “A-B-C” homework sheets, no contact control. The results indicated clear support for the efficacy of rational emotive education, especially with the added behavioral components. There was no indication that intelligence, within the range studied, significantly affects a child's ability to profit from the program. Implications and suggestions for further research are given.
Biochemistry of amphibian development: II. High molecular weight RNA

Unfertilized Rana pipiens eggs contain high molecular weight RNA with a base ratio characteristic of adult ribosomes. There is no synthesis of this RNA from P32O4 in the mature ovulated egg or early embryo until Shumway stage 16 (neural tube). The most active synthesis begins after stage 18 (muscular response and hatching), concomitant with the formation of cytoplasmic ribosomes.
Computable Error Bounds for Semidefinite Programming

We study computability and applicability of error bounds for a given semidefinite pro-gramming problem under the assumption that the recession function associated with the constraint system satisfies the Slater condition. Specifically, we give computable error bounds for the distances between feasible sets, optimal objective values, and optimal solution sets in terms of an upper bound for the condition number of a constraint system, a Lipschitz constant of the objective function, and the size of perturbation. Moreover, we are able to obtain an exact penalty function for semidefinite programming along with a lower bound for penalty parameters. We also apply the results to a class of statistical problems.
Combined inhibition of MEK and mTOR has a synergic effect on angiosarcoma tumorgrafts

Angiosarcoma (AS) is a rare neoplasm of endothelial origin that has limited treatment options and poor five-year survival. Using tumorgraft models, we previously showed that AS is sensitive to small-molecule inhibitors that target mitogen-activated/extracellular-signal-regulated protein kinase kinases 1 and 2 (MEK). The objective of this study was to identify drugs that combine with MEK inhibitors to more effectively inhibit AS growth. We examined the in vitro synergy between the MEK inhibitor PD0325901 and inhibitors of eleven common cancer pathways in melanoma cell lines and canine angiosarcoma cell isolates. Combination indices were calculated using the Chou-Talalay method. Optimized combination therapies were evaluated in vivo for toxicity and efficacy using canine angiosarcoma tumorgrafts. Among the drugs we tested, rapamycin stood out because it showed strong synergy with PD0325901 at nanomolar concentrations. We observed that angiosarcomas are insensitive to mTOR inhibition. However, treatment with nanomolar levels of mTOR inhibitor renders these cells as sensitive to MEK inhibition as a melanoma cell line with mutant BRAF. Similar results were observed in B-Raf wild-type melanoma cells as well as in vivo, where treatment of canine AS tumorgrafts with MEK and mTOR inhibitors was more effective than monotherapy. Our data show that a low dose of an mTOR inhibitor can dramatically enhance angiosarcoma and melanoma response to MEK inhibition, potentially widening the field of applications for MEK-targeted therapy.
Systolic and diastolic time intervals in pulsus alternans - Significance of alternating isovolumic relaxation

Systolic and diastolic time intervals in 14 cardiac patients with pulsus alternans revealed significant alternation of preinjection period (PEP), isovolumic contraction time (IVCT), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), ejection time index (ETI), PEP/LVET, and carotid dD/dt with better functional values in the strong beats. Cycle length, duration of electromechanical systole (EMS) and total diastole, i.e., isovolumic relaxation period (IRP) and diastolic filling period (DFP) occurred in 7 out of 8 patients. These diastolic intervals alternated reciprocally such that the IRP of the strong beats encroached upon the DFP of the next (weak) beats.
Millimeter-wave spatial and quasi-optical power combining techniques

Spatial and quasi-optical power combining techniques applicable at millimeter-wave frequencies have been developed. The combiners are formed by combining the output power from the active elements in free space or in open resonators.
A novel mutation in DNA topoisomerase I of yeast causes DNA damage and RAD9-dependent cell cycle arrest.

DNA topoisomerases, enzymes that alter the superhelicity of DNA, have been implicated in such critical cellular functions as transcription, DNA replication, and recombination. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a null mutation in the gene encoding topoisomerase I (TOP1) causes elevated levels of mitotic recombination in the ribosomal DNA (rDNA), but has little effect on growth. We have isolated a missense mutation in TOP1 that causes mitotic hyper-recombination not only in the rDNA, but also at other loci, in addition to causing a number of other unexpected phenotypes. This topoisomerase I mutation (top1-103) causes slow growth, constitutive expression of DNA damage-inducible genes, and inviability in the absence of the double-strand break repair system. Overexpression of top1-103 causes RAD9-dependent cell cycle arrest in G(2). We show that the Top1-103 enzyme nicks DNA in vitro, suggesting that it damages DNA directly. We propose that Top1-103 mimics the action of wild-type topoisomerase I in the presence of the anti-tumor drug, camptothecin.
Finding information on the World Wide Web: the retrieval effectiveness of search engines

Search engines are essential for finding information on the World Wide Web. We conducted a study to see how effective eight search engines are. Expert searchers sought information on the Web for users who had legitimate needs for information, and these users assessed the relevance of the information retrieved. We calculated traditional information retrieval measures of recall and precision at varying numbers of retrieved documents and used these as the bases for statistical comparisons of retrieval effectiveness among the eight search engines. We also calculated the likelihood that a document retrieved by one search engine was retrieved by other search engines as well.
Factors Affecting Computer Mouse Use for Young Children: Implications for AAC

More than 12% of preschoolers receiving special education services have complex communication needs, including increasing numbers of children who do not have significant motor impairments (e.g., children with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, etc.). In order to meet their diverse communication needs (e.g., face-to-face, written, Internet, telecommunication), these children may use mainstream technologies accessed via the mouse, yet little is known about factors that affect the mouse performance of young children. This study used a mixed factorial design to investigate the effects of age, target size, and angle of approach on accuracy and time required for accurate target selection with a mouse for 20 3-year-old and 20 4-year-old children. The 4-year-olds were generally more accurate and faster than the 3-year-olds. Target size and angle mediated differences in performance within age groups. The 3-year-olds were more accurate and faster in selecting the medium and large targets relative to the smal...
Barriers to antigenic escape by pathogens: trade-off between reproductive rate and antigenic mutability

A single measles vaccination provides lifelong protection. No antigenic variants that escape immunity have been observed. By contrast, influenza continually evolves new antigenic variants, and the vaccine has to be updated frequently with new strains. Both measles and influenza are RNA viruses with high mutation rates, so the mutation rate alone cannot explain the differences in antigenic variability. We develop a new hypothesis to explain antigenic stasis versus change. We first note that the antigenically static viruses tend to have high reproductive rates and to concentrate infection in children, whereas antigenically variable viruses such as influenza tend to spread more widely across age classes. We argue that, for pathogens in a naive host population that spread more rapidly in younger individuals than in older individuals, natural selection weights more heavily a rise in reproductive rate. By contrast, pathogens that spread more readily among older individuals gain more by antigenic escape, so natural selection weights more heavily antigenic mutability. These divergent selective pressures on reproductive rate and antigenic mutability may explain some of the observed differences between pathogens in age-class bias, reproductive rate, and antigenic variation.
Transgender Individuals’ Access to College Housing and Bathrooms: Findings from the National Transgender Discrimination Survey

Within higher education settings, transgender people are at risk for discrimination and harassment within housing and bathrooms. Yet, few have examined this topic using quantitative data or compared the experiences of subgroups of transgender individuals to predict denial of access to these spaces. The current study utilizes the National Transgender Discrimination Survey to research this issue. Findings indicate that being transgender and having another marginalized identity matters for students’ access to housing and bathrooms. Trans women are at greater risk than gender-nonconforming people for being denied access to school housing and bathrooms. Implications for practice and research are detailed.
Characterizing deep optical-sectioning microscopy performance with scattering phantoms and numerical simulations

Microscopes are being developed for use in living animals, and even humans, to image microanatomical changes and molecular markers that are associated with disease. Phantoms that can be used to evaluate the performance characteristics of these systems have not been well described or standardized. We have been developing the tools to evaluate a dual-axis confocal (DAC) microscope design to optimize the features required for in vivo diagnosic imaging, and these may have features that are useful for evaluation of other such devices. We have performed diffraction-theory modeling, Monte-Carlo scattering simulations, reflectance experiments in tissue phantoms, and tissue-imaging validations. First, we determined how scattering from tissue deteriorates the diffraction-limited transverse and vertical responses in reflectance DAC imaging. Specifically, the vertical and transverse responses of the DAC to a plane reflector and a knife edge, respectively, were measured at various depths in an Intralipid scattering phantom. Comparisons were made with both diffraction-theory and Monte-Carlo scattering simulations. Secondly, as a practical demonstration of deep-tissue fluorescence microscopy, three-dimensional fluorescence images were obtained in thick human biopsy samples. These results demonstrate that the efficient rejection of scattered light in a DAC microscope enables deep optical sectioning in tissue. Finally, we will discuss our needs and plans for similar tissue-phantom experiments to validate the performance of multimodal optical- and ultrasound-imaging platforms under development. As devices are developed for the imaging of epithelial surfaces and substructures, standardized phantoms that represent the multilayered anatomical features of these tissues will need to be developed.
Dissecting enthalpic and entropic barriers to ultrafast equilibrium isomerization of a flexible molecule using 2DIR chemical exchange spectroscopy.

Ultrafast 2DIR chemical exchange spectroscopy was used to study the dynamic equilibrium between different isomers of dicobalt octacarbonyl. Exchange of population between bridged and unbridged isomers takes place on the time scale of a few picoseconds, corresponding to activation barriers of several kcal/mol. Despite overlapping spectral features in the 2DIR spectrum, the exchange component of the waiting time dependence was isolated by exploiting the well-characterized coherent modulation of nonexchange crosspeaks. The temperature dependence of the forward and reverse rate constants enabled extraction of isomerization energy barriers, where analysis using the Eyring equation indicated a substantial entropic contribution to the free energy barrier (ΔS‡exp > 0). Comparison to quantum chemical calculations showed reasonable enthalpy agreement, but qualitative disagreement for the entropy of the transition state relative to the isomers (ΔS‡comp < 0).
Where Have We Been, Where Are We Going? Taking Stock in Creativity Research

The dedicated work of numerous scholars has, over the last 10 years, led to some radical advances in our understanding of the nature and implications of creativity. This work has been summarized in 2 recent handbooks-Mark Runco's Creativity Research Handbook and Robert Sternberg's Handbook of Creativity. In this article I use these handbooks as a starting point to take stock in both what has been accomplished and what still needs to be done in our attempts to understand creativity. I begin by noting that both handbooks clearly describe the major approaches being used in studies of creativity and the findings resulting from each approach. A careful review of the chapters presented in these handbooks, however, brings to the fore a number of issues. For example, we need critical comparative tests contrasting the merits of different methods and theories, elaboration and extension of our traditional samples and our traditional measures, and more attempts to develop integrative models. However, some topics, suc...
Infrared matrix isolation study of the reaction of CrCl2O2 with (CH3)2O and (CH3)2CO

Abstract Matrix isolation has been combined with infrared spectroscopy to study the reaction chemistry of CrCl 2 O 2 with (CH 3 ) 2 O and (CH 3 ) 2 CO. Very similar results were obtained with twin jet and room temperature merged jet deposition, indicating that the initial product forms on the surface of the matrix during deposition, not in the deposition lines prior to matrix condensation. The initial product in both systems was identified as the 1:1 complex between the two reagents, with a structure in which the oxygen atom of the base donates electron density to the Cr center. A number of perturbed vibrational modes of both subunits were observed; for the bases, these modes were vibrations involving the oxygen atom. Hg arc irradiation of the CrCl 2 O 2 ·O(CH 3 ) 2 complex led to growth of a secondary product that is tentatively identified as Cl 2 CrO(OCH 3 ) 2 . The CrCl 2 O 2 ·OC(CH 3 ) 2 complex was not photosensitive, and no rearrangements were observed.
Online Instructional Design Approaches Utilizing a Tablet PC

Online students can experience what instructional strategies can be utilized using a Tablet PC in online courses. This paper summarizes how inking in Word, Powerpoint, and Windows Journal can be effective in an online course both asynchronously and synchronously. Approaches concerning assignments, discussion boards, presentations, note taking are discussed and how they can be more effective for faculty members and students using a Tablet PC. Students actually experience how a Tablet PC can be utilized in an asynchronous and synchronous envi- ronment. In summary, preliminary data will be discussed from the students and professor's point of view and next steps. As content and assignments are being designed and devel- oped for an online graduate course, it is important to keep in mind teaching styles, student's learning styles, and a faculty member's approach to promoting a Tablet PC in an online course. Even though graduate students were not required to have a Tablet PC, the course enabled them to understand how effective a Tablet PC could be in an online course whether it was delivered asynchronous or synchro- nously. Index Terms—inking, instructional strategies, online courses, Tablet PC.
Deducing 2D crystal structure at the liquid/solid interface with atomic resolution: a combined STM and SFG study.

Sum frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy (SFG) has been applied to study two-dimensional (2D) crystals formed by an isophthalic acid diester on the surface of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, providing complementary measurements to scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and computational modeling. SFG results indicate that both aromatic and C═O groups in the 2D crystal tilt from the surface. This study demonstrates that a combination of SFG and STM techniques can be used to gain a more complete picture of 2D crystal structure, and it is necessary to consider solvent−2D crystal interactions and dynamics in the computer models to achieve an accurate representation of interfacial structure.
The Future of a Discipline: Considering the Ontological/Methodological Future of the Anthropology of Consciousness, Part IV: Ontological Relativism or Ontological Relevance: An Essay in Honor of Michael Harner

For more than 100 years, anthropologists have collected ethnographic research among communities who assert that the spirits, animal allies, and other entities of the unseen world are “really real,” yet we have historically contextualized this information under the umbrella of cultural relativism rather than taking the veracity of these claims seriously. In the last decade, some anthropologists claim that our discipline has finally undergone an ontological turn, which opens a door for anthropologists to finally take claims of nonhuman sentience seriously under the umbrella of ontological, rather than cultural, relativism. This paper takes issue with ontological relativism as just one more frame for explaining away the stories of other-than-human consciousness that ethnographers report and suggests that there is an urgent need to consider the relevance, rather than the relativism, of other-than-human consciousness. It looks to Michael Harner's work as a welcome alternative to ontological relativism and encourages opening our minds to a reconsideration of what is “really real.”
Development of Pavement Type Evaluation Procedure for Texas Department of Transportation

A rational procedure is presented for evaluating alternative pavement types for roadway projects. Agency costs, user delay costs, and performance levels are important factors for comparing alternative pavement strategies. These factors are included in the evaluation procedure. Economic evaluations are based on life-cycle cost analysis. Cost-effectiveness analysis is also included in the procedure and uses area under the performance curve as a measure of the effectiveness of a pavement design strategy. Limitations in economic evaluations and the role of other miscellaneous factors in pavement type selection are also discussed. A computer program, TxPTS, was developed to automate the evaluation procedure. Case studies are presented demonstrating the use of the program.
Laparoscopic-assisted double-balloon enteroscopy for small-bowel polyp surveillance and treatment in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Background Surveillance and treatment of small-bowel polyps in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) can be challenging and may require intraoperative enteroscopy. While initial reports that used double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) for the resection of small-bowel polyps in patients with PJS appear promising, complete enteroscopy when using this technique may require multiple procedures or may not be possible at all. Objective To develop a single-procedure approach to the surveillance and the treatment of small-bowel polyps in patients with PJS. Design Retrospective review. Setting Single, North American tertiary-care center. Patients Individuals with PJS and small-bowel polyps identified by other modalities. Interventions DBE was combined with laparoscopy as a single-procedure surveillance and therapeutic strategy for small-bowel PJS polyps. Main Outcome Measurements Completion of enteroscopy, number of polyps resected, procedure duration, complications. Results Three patients with a history of PJS and known small-bowel polyps underwent laparoscopic-assisted DBE (LADBE). Complete enteroscopy was performed, and all polyps larger than 0.5 cm were resected endoscopically. No cases of cancer or dysplasia were noted; procedure times lasted from 1 to 4 hours. Postoperative complications included ileus in 2 patients. Limitations Small sample size, single-center experience. Conclusions LADBE holds promise as a new technique that can be used as both a surveillance and a therapeutic tool for small-bowel polyps in patients with PJS.
Advances in Minimally Invasive Repair of Vesicovaginal Fistulas

Over the past 20 years, the discussion concerning vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) repair has evolved from strictly transabdominal/transvaginal to including minimally invasive surgeries. The original natural orifice approach through the vagina allows for VVF repair with decreased morbidity and minimal convalescence with success rates upwards of 90 %. For surgeries that involve a narrowed/stenotic vagina or a need for a concomitant abdominal procedure, transadominal surgery can be performed by laparoscopic or robot-assisted laparoscopic approaches. Success rates in large series are upwards of 86 %. Difficulties such as an increased learning curve and vesicovaginal plane dissection have been overcome with innovations such as the robotic platform and cutting to the light with vaginoscopy. While still in its infancy in VVF repair, single site surgery has also been utilized with reasonable success. Although minimally invasive surgery offers numerous advantages, the most successful approach will still be the surgery with which the VVF surgeon is most familiar.
Plasma Wave Observations During Electron Beam Experiments at High Altitudes

Electron beam experiments on the nearly geosynchronous P78-2 satellite conducted in 1979 resulted in observations of intense radiation near the local electron gyrofrequency. These signals resembled naturally occurring f(ce) waves during the same period. The amplitude of the simulated waves depended upon beam parameters. During 50-eV beam operations, current levels of 10 microamps produced strong emissions. Current levels of 1 microamp and 100 microamps did not. These emissions correspond in time to previously reported observations of electron distributions, which suggest heating of the local thermal plasma. Sufficient power is in the observed emissions to explain some aspects of the heated electron distributions observed during the experiments.
Multiple Indicators of financial instability in local governments

This paper suggests methods to ascertain the fiscal health of local governments. The methods can be applied to total, short-term, or long-term indebtedness and are conducive to market or regulatory management approaches. Essentially, we argue against the use of single indicators of financial health applied in an absolute manner and for the comparative use of multiple indicators through time. Tracking multiple indicators through time affords administrators, regulators, investors and citizens a better picture of the financial situation of a locale in comparison to other similar locales at any point in time as well as a clearer indication of potentially troublesome trends. The paper concludes with an illustration of the multiple indicators method applied to the total and GOB indebtedness of a sample of 161 Florida cities and towns. The illustration includes a suggested threshold level and finds less than 10 percent of Florida cities and towns above this limit. The paper concludes with an illustration of the ...
INVASIVE SPECIES ACCELERATE DECOMPOSITION AND LITTER NITROGEN LOSS IN A MIXED DECIDUOUS FOREST

Invasive species can change decomposition rates within an ecosystem by changing the quality of the litter entering a system. It is not known, however, whether or not invasions can also change rates of decomposition irrespective of litter quality. We conducted an experiment to explore the differences in decomposition between leaf litter of native and exotic invasive woody plants and between invaded and uninvaded mesic hard- wood forests on Long Island, New York, USA. We evaluated the mass and nitrogen loss rates from leaf litter of four pairs of native and exotic woody species. Litter from the exotic species decomposed and released nitrogen significantly faster than litter from the native species. The largest differences in decomposition and nitrogen loss occurred between the invaded and uninvaded sites rather than between native and exotic species, with litter of all species types decomposing substantially faster in invaded sites. These results suggest that the invasion of exotic species into hardwood forests alters decomposition and nutrient cycling, irrespective of species-specific litter quality differences between natives and ex- otics.
Effects of individualized assignments on biology achievement

A pretest-posttest, randomized, two groups, experimental, factorial design compared effects of detailed and nondetailed assignments on biology achievement over seven and a half months. Detailed assignments (favoring field independence and induction) employed block diagrams and stepwise directions. Nondetailed assignments (favoring field dependence and deduction) virtually lacked these. The accessible population was 101 tenth grade preparatory school male students. The 95 students enrolled in first year biology constituted the sample. Two by three ANOVA was done on residualized posttest score means of the students. Totally, the detailed students achieved significantly higher than the nondetailed students. This significantly higher achievement was only true of detailed students in the middle thirds of the deviation intelligence quotient (DIQ) range and of the grade point average (G.P.A.) range after the breakdown into upper, middle, and lower thirds of intellectual capability (ability and achievement). The upper third detailed DIQ grouping indirectly achieved higher than its peers, whereas the lower detailed DIQ third achieved lower than its peers. Thus, high capability students apparently benefit from flow and block diagrams, inductions, field independence, and high structure, whereas low capability students may be hindered by these.
Parp1 activation in mouse embryonic fibroblasts promotes Pol β-dependent cellular hypersensitivity to alkylation damage

Alkylating agents induce cell death in wild-type (WT) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) by multiple mechanisms, including apoptosis, autophagy and necrosis. DNA polymerase β (Pol β) knockout (KO) MEFs are hypersensitive to the cytotoxic effect of alkylating agents, as compared to WT MEFs. To test the hypothesis that Parp1 is preferentially activated by methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) exposure of Pol β KO MEFs, we have examined the relationship between Pol β expression, Parp1 activation and cell survival following MMS exposure in a series of WT and Pol β deficient MEF cell lines. Consistent with our hypothesis, we observed elevated Parp1 activation in Pol β KO MEFs as compared to matched WT MEFs. Both the MMS-induced activation of Parp1 and the MMS-induced cytotoxicity of Pol β KO MEFs are attenuated by pre-treatment with the Parp1/Parp2 inhibitor PJ34. Further, elevated Parp1 activation is observed following knockdown (KD) of endogenous Pol β, as compared to WT cells. Pol β KD MEFs are hypersensitive to MMS and both the MMS-induced hypersensitivity and Parp1 activation is prevented by pre-treatment with PJ34. In addition, the MMS-induced cellular sensitivity of Pol β KO MEFs is reversed when Parp1 is also deleted (Pol β/Parp1 double KO MEFs) and we observe no MMS sensitivity differential between Pol β/Parp1 double KO MEFs and those that express recombinant mouse Pol β. These studies suggest that Parp1 may function as a sensor of BER to initiate cell death when BER is aborted or fails. Parp1 may therefore function in BER as a tumor suppressor by initiating cell death and preventing the accumulation of cells with chromosomal damage due to a BER defect.
Differential expression of type IV collagen isoforms in rat glomerular endothelial and mesangial cells.

Abstract Type IV collagen, which is encoded by six genetically distinct α-chains (α1–α6), is a major component of the kidney glomerulus. The α1(IV) and α2(IV) chains are present predominantly in the mesangial matrix, whereas the α3(IV), α4(IV), and α5(IV) chains are localized almost exclusively to the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). Thickening of the GBM and expansion of the mesangial matrix are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. In the present study, we evaluated the expression of α1(IV), α3(IV), and α5(IV) chains in rat glomerular endothelial (GEndC) and mesangial cells (GMC). Under physiological concentrations of glucose (5 mM), α1(IV) and α5(IV) chains were detectable in GMCs, with an obvious absence of α3(IV) chain. All three isoforms tested were present in GEndCs. At diabetic concentrations of glucose (25 mM), α1(IV) was up-regulated in GMCs, whereas expression level of α1(IV) remained unaltered in GEndCs. The α3(IV) and α5(IV) chains were up-regulated in GEndCs, but remained unchanged in GMCs under diabetic glucose concentrations (25 mM). Collectively, our results demonstrate that GMC might contribute to mesangial matrix expansion, mediated by α1(IV) collagen, while GEndC might contribute to thickening of GBM, mediated by α3(IV) collagen, in patients with diabetic nephropathy.
The defense of professional freedom and social responsibility

[Invited Talk, Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, February 21, 1977. Dr. von Hippel is Chairman of the AAAS Committee on Scientific Freedom and Responsibility's Subcommittee on Professional and Social Responsibility of the Scientist.]
Determinants of cost efficiencies in the mutual fund industry

Abstract We evaluate determinants of cost efficiencies in the U.S. mutual fund industry for 1998–2003. Our empirical results show that cost increases in this industry have been less than proportional to increases in assets. We find that funds without a 12b-1 plan show larger economies of scale than funds with a 12b-1 plan; institutional funds show greater economies of scale than do retail funds; and that fund families that are more focused in their investment objectives reap benefits of lower fund management costs than do fund families that are more diversified in their investment objectives.
Energy methods for stability of bilinear systems with oscillatory inputs

A large body of recent literature has been devoted to the topic of motions of mechanical systems forced by oscillatory inputs (see, for example, References 7, 12, 15, 17 and 29). A common feature in most of this work (with Reference 7 being the exception) is that the results apply principally to kinematic problems, and the equations of motion do not involve drift terms. The main object of study in this paper is the class of bilinear control systems with oscillatory (periodic) inputs. We shall show that included in this class are models of mechanical system dynamics which are obtained through a process of reduction and linearization about operating points. In particular, we study the stability of such systems under high-frequency, periodic forcing. The averaged potential is defined for linearizations of the systems on the (reduced) configuration space, and it is shown that stable motions of the forced system are associated with minimum values of this quantity. We use both classical averaging theory as well as a novel geometric argument to provide parallel but independent assessments of the use of the averaged potential in carrying out a stability analysis. A salient feature of the geometric approach is that we are able to justify the use of an energy-like quantity to determine Lyapunov stability in conservative mechanical systems. This makes contact with a growing body of literature on the use of energy methods for stability and control design (e.g. References 7, 8, 18, 24, 26 and 27). We briefly describe the connection with previous work on the averaged potential.
Chromium speciation by anion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography with both inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopic and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric detection

Abstract Development of a new method for the determination of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) is described. Anion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to separate Cr(III) and Cr(VI) with on-line detection by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) at 2766 A in preliminary studies, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) with single-ion monitoring at m / z 52 and m / z 53 for final work. A mobile phase consisting of ammonium sulfate and ammonium hydroxide was used, and a simple chelation procedure with EDTA was followed to stabilize the Cr(III) species in standard solutions. ICP-MS results indicated the feasibility of using chromium isotope m / z 53 instead of the more abundant m / z 52 isotope due to a high mobile-phase background most significantly from the SO + polyatomic interferance. The absolute detection limits based on peak-height calculations were 40 pg for Cr(III) and 100 pg for Cr(VI) in aqueous media by HPLC-ICP-MS. The linear dynamic range extended from 5 ppb (ng/ml) to 1 ppm (μg/ml) for both species. By HPLC-ICP-AES, detection limits were 100 ng for Cr(III) and 200 ng for Cr(VI). Cr(III) was detected in NIST-SRM 1643c (National Institute of Standards and Technology-Standard Reference Material, Trace Elements in Water) by HPLC-ICP-MS at the 20 ppb level.
Semi-automated fluorogenic PCR assays (TaqMan) forrapid detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and other shiga toxigenic E. coli.

Abstract Semi-automated detection of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 and non-O157:H7 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) was achieved using fluorogenic polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These PCR assays were designed to amplify 80, 120 and 150 bp regions of virulence genes stx1 , stx2 and eaeA , respectively, using specific primers. The fluorogenic probes were used for specific detection of amplified products of the stx1 and stx2 genes of STEC, and the eaeA gene of EHEC O157:H7. For multiplex PCR assay, the three sets of primers and fluorogenic probes were included in one reaction to simultaneously amplify and detect any of the three targeted virulence genes. In non-multiplex PCR assay, each of the three virulence genes was amplified and detected in independent reactions. The specificity of these assays was evaluated using suspensions of STEC and other bacterial species lacking stx1 , stx2 and eaeA . The multiplex assay detected all STEC harbouring any combination of three virulence genes. Three non-multiplex PCR reactions identified types of Shiga toxin genes carried by a STEC and identified STEC as either EHEC O157:H7 or non-O157:H7 STEC. Sensitivity limits of these assays in beef and faeces inoculated with EHEC O157:H7 were 5.8 to 580 cfu and 1.2 to 1200 cfu, respectively. These assays can be completed within 8–10 h when performed simultaneously or within 13 h if the multiplex assay is used as an initial screen for detecting STEC and the non-multiplex assay is used for subsequent detection of stx1 and stx2 of STEC and eaeA of EHEC O157:H7
Buprenorphine in cancer pain

Buprenorphine is a broad spectrum, highly lipophilic, and long-acting partial mu opioid receptor agonist that is noncross tolerant to other opioids. Buprenorphine can be given by several routes. Metabolism is through CYP3A4 and CYP2C8 and by conjugases. Constipation and sexual dysfunction appear to be less with buprenorphine than with other opioids. The recent development of a polymer matrix patch delivery system for buprenorphine prevents "dose dumping" and facilitates pain management in those unable to take oral analgesics. Sublingual buprenorphine has been combined with naloxone to prevent illicit conversion to parenteral administration. Buprenorphine has been used extensively to control cancer pain. In certain clinical situations, buprenorphine may have particular advantages over other opioids.
Boiling heat transfer between immiscible liquids

de chaleur par ebullition entre des liquides non miscibles. Le mercure avec de l’eau, de l’alcool Bthylique ou de l’alcool methyl’que a tte utilise. L’appareil est un tube de verre de 25 in. de diamttre contenant du mercure chauffe par une resistance exterieure; la nappe de liquide en ebulhtion se trouve a la surface du mercure. Les donnees couvrent le domaine .4T = 7-103°F. 4 = 1500-110 000 Btu/fP h avec tl = 2OC-1800 Btu/fP h F. Aucune decroissance n’a ete observee, ni pour le flux de chaleur, ni pour tr. Zusammenfassung-Offensichtlich zum ersten Male wurden Warmeiibergangszahlen beim Sieden zwischen nichtvermischbaren Fliissigkeiten ermittelt. In der Versuchsapparatur, einem Glasrohr von 6,3S cm Durchmesser wurde Quecksilber durch einem urn das Rohr gewickelten Heizdraht erwlrmt. Uber das Quecksilber war die siedende Fliissigkeit Wasser, Methanol oder Athanol geschichtet. Dte untersuchten Werte erstreckten sich von dT = 4-57 grd und q == 4000-300 000 kcal/m2 h mit tr 980-8800 kcal/m2 hgrd, wobei kein Abfall des Warmeflusses und der Wlrmetibergangszahl zu beobachten war. &lHOTBQIISI--B CTaTbe, BO:3~1lJHiHcJ BIIepBbIC, AaHbI pe3y-JbTaTbI IICC.TeHOBaHMH II0 OIIpI?JIt!3eIImo Ko3@@IHHeHToB TennonepeHoca ~CltcHy IIecixemHBaI0umMHcH ~~~HAKOCTRMH npu KHIICHIIII. &III 3TOH HeJIH 6panIr CMCCH PTyTIi C BOAOH, MeTIiJIOBbIM HJIII 3TMJIOBbIM CIIIIpTOM YCTaHOBKa COCTOFfJIa 113 CTeK.?RHHOli TPY6KEi J(LIaMeTpOM 2,5 HKIHMa, 3anOJIHeHHOn PTyTbIO, KOTOPFUJ CHapJ'WI IIO~OrpeBaxaCb 3.YI~KTPWIWKHM HWpeBaTWIeM. Han Tpy6KOi4 HaXO~%i.Wfl peFIepBya&I C KHIIRIIIB~ HFHHKOCTbIO. ~KCIIt?~IIllCHTaJIbHbIe AaHHbIe CoOTBeTCTByIoT 3HaHeHBHM: DT = 7-103OF, q = 1500-110.000 ET~/KB. I$YT Hat M h = ZOO-1800 Gre/KB. QT Hat “F. OAHEiKO HI? 6btno 3aMCYeHO J’MeHbmeHIIC IiO3c)@HuHeHTa TeIIJIOO6MCHa OT IIOTOKR TeIIJla
Observation of reaction intermediates and kinetic mistakes in a remarkably slow self-assembly reaction

Several intermediates and oligomeric mistakes in a metal-ligand self-assembly reaction are identified by 1H NMR, MALDI-MS, and XRD, providing evidence in support of multiple pathways in the "free-for-all" self-assembly process.
Improvement in the fatigue life of fiber-reinforced ceramics by use of interfacial lubrication

Continuous-fiber reinforced ceramics are potential materials for high temperature load carrying structures. Most applications involve cyclic loading. Recent work has shown that the interfacial shear stress in ceramic matrix composites decreases rapidly in the initial stages of cyclic loading. This brings up a key question. Namely can fatigue life be improved by altering the initial wear rate of the fiber/matrix interface. This letter reports such an attempt, where micro-cracked specimens were immersed in oil prior to cyclic loads, in an attempt to change the interface wear rate. A Nicalon SiC-fiber/calcium aluminosilicate matrix (SiC{sub t}/CAS-II, Corning Glass Works, Corning, NY) composite was used in the study. The composite was processed with 16 plies and had a nominal fiber content of 40 vol.%. Edge loaded specimens, similar to those used in earlier studies were machined from 6 in. x 6 in. panels with fibers parallel to the tensile loading direction. To facilitate the observation of matrix cracking, the specimens were polished along an edge (minor face) with diamond paste to a final finish of 1 {mu}m.
Rate (time)-dependent deformation behavior: an overview of some properties of metals and solid polymers

Abstract The inelastic deformation behaviors of metals and polymers are discussed with the aim of finding a common base that would simplify academic and engineering analyses. Only monotonic loading conditions at room temperature are considered. For loading at different rates, nonlinear relations between loading rate and stress level, creep stress level and creep strain, and relaxation rate and stress were common to both type of materials. There are, of course, significant differences in elastic properties, strength levels and the strains involved. Special properties such as relaxation behaviors and creep anomalies can be qualitatively and quantitatively reproduced by the state variable model VBO (viscoplasticity theory based on overstress). Since experimental investigations typically concentrate on one particular aspect of inelastic deformation behavior such as creep or strain-rate dependence, it is often difficult to gather a comprehensive data set for a given material. In spite of this, considerable similitude in the deformation behavior of metals and polymers in various test conditions has nevertheless been established.
Prognosis of Patients Treated with Whole-Brain Radiation Therapy for Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

Abstract We evaluated the effect of multiple treatment- and disease-related variables on the outcome of patients receiving whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) for metastatic gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Between November 1967 and December 1994, 21 patients were treated at our institution for GTD metastatic to the brain. All received WBRT, of median 2200 cGy (range 200–3600 cGy). Median follow-up, from date of diagnosis of brain metastases, was 77 months (range 11–170 months). The 5-year actuarial local control of initial brain metastases with ≥2200 cGy was 91%, compared to 24% with P = 0.05). The 2- and 5-year actuarial survivals of the 9 patients whose disease was controlled at extracranial sites were 100 and 83%, respectively, compared to 8 and 0%, respectively, for the 12 whose extracranial disease was not controlled ( P = 0.0002). Four (33%) of the patients with persistent or progressive extracranial disease later developed new sites of brain metastases, compared to 0% of the patients whose extracranial disease was controlled ( P = 0.05). Eleven patients progressed at their initial site(s) of brain metastasis or developed new intracranial lesions; 6 of them died of brain metastases. Survival of patients with GTD metastatic to the brain is excellent if extracranial disease can be controlled. The total dose of radiation is critical in achieving control of initial brain metastases. Patients with uncontrolled extracranial disease are more likely to develop new brain metastases. Salvage of intracranial failures after WBRT is rare.
Fatigue crack growth reliability by probabilistic finite elements

Fusion of the probabilistic finite-element method and reliability analysis for probabilistic fatigue-crack growth is presented. A comprehensive method for determining the probability of fatigue failure for mixed-mode cyclic loading is also presented. The loading is mixed-mode with randomness in the initial and final crack lengths, initial crack angle and position, material properties, crack-growth law, crack-direction law, and loading. The methodology consists of calculating the reliability index via an optimization procedure which is used to calculate the probability of fatigue failure. Performance of the methodology presented is demonstrated on a classical mode-I fatigue problem.
Omental patch repair effectively treats perforated marginal ulcer following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background Marginal ulcer formation remains a significant complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Up to 1 % of all RYGB patients will develop free perforation of a marginal ulcer. Classically, this complication has required anastomotic revision; however, this approach is associated with significant morbidity. Several small series have suggested that omental patch repair may be effective. The aim of this study was to examine the management of perforated marginal ulcers following RYGB.
Detectability of lunar X-rays☆

Abstract We have examined several theories that imply the generation of X-rays by the Moon. The X-ray fluxes to be expected at the top of the Earth's atmosphere are estimated and compared. For example, we find that an X-ray flux is to be expected when the Moon is full and K p high, as a consequence of the configuration of the auroral electrons in space deduced from the long tail model of the magnetosphere. The X-ray photons are caused by energetic electrons in the tail that bombard the lunar surface. Alternatively, Gold has suggested that lunar X-rays are produced by the bombardment by solar-wind electrons; this results in a lunar phase dependence that is different from the long tail model. The background is discussed and we conclude that the lunar X-ray flux may be detectable. Experiments of this kind may provide useful tools for investigating the models.