cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Response Heterogeneity Across Metastatic Lesions Informs Drug Efficacy and Patient Survival in Colorectal Cancer

Abstract The sum of target lesions is routinely used to evaluate patient objective responses to treatment in the RECIST criteria, but it neglects the response heterogeneity across metastases. This study argues that the spatiotemporal response heterogeneity across metastases informs drug efficacy and patient survival. We analyzed the longitudinal data of 11,404 metastatic lesions in 2,802 colorectal cancer patients and examined their response heterogeneity. The response dynamics of metastatic lesions varied broadly across anatomical locations and therapies. High inter-lesion heterogeneity is associated with worse survival (p Significance The spatiotemporal heterogeneity across metastases in response to first-line therapies in colorectal cancer is informative for drug efficacy and patient survival, particularly in targeted therapy. Our findings provide evidence to support the inclusion of individual lesion response in the RECIST to improve the assessment of drug efficacy and patient survival.
Meibomian gland dysfunction is suppressed via selective inhibition of immune responses by topical LFA-1/ICAM antagonism with lifitegrast in the allergic eye disease (AED) model

Abstract Purpose The etiology of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is incompletely understood, despite being a common ophthalmic condition and an area of unmet medical need. It is characterized by an insufficiency in glandular provision of specialized lipids (meibum) to the tear film and is a major cause of dry eye. Work in the allergic eye disease (AED) mouse model has revealed an immunopathogenic role in MGD causation, now raising interest in the applicability of immunomodulatory therapies. As such, we herein ask whether inhibition of lymphocyte function associated antigen (LFA)-1/intracellular adhesion molecules (ICAM)-1 signaling via topical lifitegrast administration has a therapeutic effect on MGD in AED mice. Methods Mice were induced with AED by i.p. injection of ovalbumin (OVA) mixed with alum and pertussis toxin, followed 2 weeks later by once daily topical OVA challenges for 7 days. Mice were treated topically with 5% lifitegrast ophthalmic solution or vehicle (PBS) 30 min prior to challenge. We developed a clinical ranking method to assess MGD severity, and also scored clinical allergy. Conjunctivae and draining lymph nodes were collected for flow cytometry. Results Topical lifitegrast significantly inhibited clinical MGD severity, which was associated with diminished pathogenic TH17 cell and neutrophil numbers in the conjunctiva. No significant change in conjunctival TH2 cells or eosinophils, and only marginal differences in ocular allergy were observed. Conclusions In AED mice, lifitegrast inhibited MGD severity marked by a reduction in select immune populations in the conjunctiva. Our findings warrant future examination of lifitegrast in the treatment of patients with forms of MGD.
Intraluminal carotid thrombosis and acute ischemic stroke associated with COVID-19.

COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has a diverse constellation of neurological manifestations that include encephalopathy, stroke, Guillain-Barre syndrome, myelitis, and encephalitis. Intraluminal carotid thrombi (ILT) are infrequent lesions seen in only 1.6% of patients with acute ischemic stroke. Underlying atherosclerosis is the most common lesion associated with ILT formation. However, with COVID-19, we have encountered ILT in patients without significant atherosclerotic disease. The endothelial inflammation and hypercoagulable state associated with COVID-19 pose a risk of arterial and venous thromboembolism and could have contributed to this presentation although the exact pathophysiology and optimal treatment of ILT in COVID-19 remain elusive. Herein, we present a series of ischemic stroke patients with carotid ILT in the setting of a recent SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Silent Sigmoid Colon Diverticular Perforation: A Case Report

Colonic perforation is associated with high mortality rates, and it requires prompt diagnosis and intervention to ensure favorable patient outcomes. The condition usually presents with typical peritoneal signs and symptoms, but atypical presentations can be a diagnostic challenge. In this report, we present a case of sigmoid diverticulosis perforation in an elderly patient who had no symptoms after the perforation developed. This case highlights the importance of detailed history, physical examination, and a low threshold of suspicion in patients with risk factors for atypical presentations.
AN EXPLICIT CHARACTERIZATION OF THE DOMAIN OF THE INFINITESIMAL GENERATOR OF A SYMMETRIC DIFFUSION SEMIGROUP ON LP OF A COMPLETE POSITIVE SIGMA-FINITE MEASURE SPACE

Let X be a complete positive σ–finite measure space and {At}t≥0 be a symmetric diffusion semigroup of contraction operators on Lp(X). We prove that for 1<p<∞, the domain of the infinitesimal generator of the semigroup is precisely the space ∫01Ash ds:h∈Lp(X). We also establish that for 1<p<∞, the function spaces 2n-1∫02-(n-1)Ash ds|h∈Lp(X) are equal for every n∈ℤ.
Experimental and Analytical Investigation of Carbon Fiber Cable Damping

For structures deployed in space using cables, cable damping is significant to structural performance and stability. This paper describes tests used to evaluate cable damping under different experimental configurations (different cable length, tension and type). These cables were made by twisting seven IM7 carbon fiber tows for a specific number of turns. For each cable, seven tests were conducted, and data from two accelerometers located at 1/5 and 3/4 of the cable length were used to determine the modal damping ratio using the ‘half-power bandwidth’ method in the frequency domain.
Mechanical Behavior of Three Sheet Molding Compounds

A test program was conducted to measure various mechanical properties of three sheet molding compounds, SMC-R25, SMC-R30, and SMC-R65. Static tension tests were conducted in ambient and elevated temperature environments on both dry and moisture preconditioned specimens. Compression, shear, flexure, and impact tests were also conducted; these were performed at ambient temperatures on dry specimens.
A Middle Pennsylvanian macrofloral assemblage from below the Rock Island (No. 1) Coal Member, Illinois: Resolving the Bolsovian–Asturian boundary in the Illinois Basin

Abstract A taxonomic, quantitative, and biostratigraphic analysis is presented for a macrofloral assemblage collected from below the Rock Island (No. 1) Coal Member at the historical Friendship Farm locality in Rock Island County, on the northwestern margin of the Illinois Basin. The Middle Pennsylvanian (middle Moscovian) fossiliferous strata involve the middle Tradewater Formation, and are situated a short distance below the Atokan–Desmoinesian Stage boundary as defined by marine microfossils and palynology. The assemblage of 14 fossil-taxa is overwhelmingly dominated by pteridosperms, including Laveineopteris rarinervis, Neuropteris flexuosa, Alethopteris serlii, Macroneuropteris scheuchzeri, and Mariopteris nervosa, whereas lycopsids, sphenopsids, and ferns are comparatively rare. Homotaxial comparison with the macrofloral biozonation scheme established in Europe indicates an Asturian age for the assemblage, in all likelihood early Asturian (Linopteris obliqua Biozone). Similar comparisons with range limits documented in the Appalachian Basin yield a more ambiguous age, but an early Asturian age is equally probable. These findings indicate that the Bolsovian–Asturian Substage boundary of western Europe lies below the Atokan–Desmoinesian Stage boundary in the Illinois Basin, boundaries that have traditionally been correlated by palynology. The Middle Pennsylvanian interval near these boundaries is being increasingly recognized as one of significant environmental change, reflected in marked lithological and biological modifications throughout tropical Euramerica. However, the fact that the Bolsovian–Asturian and Atokan–Desmoinesian boundaries are not synchronous, albeit being broadly equivalent, suggests that the environmental perturbation was a protracted event that may have had global consequences.
Spallation Reactions: Experimental Results, 1967-75

There has been a long if sometimes distant relationship between chemists who study high energy nuclear reactions and astrophysicists. Some of the results of these nuclear reaction studies, usually product yield cross sections for a variety of target nuclei, are required by the astrophysics community to determine the composition, energy distribution and intensity of both cosmic and galactic radiation. However results of experiments designed to elucidate high energy reaction mechanisms are frequently not directly useful for these ends. The paper by J. M. Miller (1967) in the previous volume of this series reviewed the models and calculations which have proven useful in understanding high energy reaction data and compared the results of those calculations with experiment. The following chapter in this volume by H. Bertini (1976) continues that effort; here we concentrate on describing experimental results obtained subsequent to 1967 and discuss their significance.
Decision Making by the Modern Supreme Court: Sharing the Protection of Minorities

In this chapter, we continue our examination of civil rights and individual liberties but shift our focus to the nonconstitutional decisions. These decisions would be based on a state or federal statute (we concentrate on the latter) rather than constitutional grounds. These cases are salient to the justices, but we argue that the constraints on the Court are much greater. Because these cases are based on statutory grounds, Congress can flip a decision it does not like with a simple majority of both houses. In the last chapter, we saw that the attitudinal variable, issue evolution, and the president were the dominant influences on constitutional civil rights and civil liberties decisions. Precedent did not have an across-the-board impact. Whereas the issues will be similar in content, we expect some significant differences between the constitutional and statutory cases. The latter should be contested on narrower grounds, which should enhance the influence of Congress and precedent. Of course, it is important to remember that the Court has some control over the scope of the issue – it can sometimes decide the case on the grounds it chooses (King 2007). The Court can simply say it is deciding the case on constitutional grounds. Conversely, it can take a case that is being litigated on constitutional ground and redefine it as statutory. We expect the attitudinal variable to remain important, to be sure, but precedent should emerge as an important factor.
"Intensive" outpatient substance abuse treatment: comparisons with "traditional" outpatient treatment

Abstract Do “intensive,” freestanding outpatient substance abuse treatment programs actually provide more intensive services than “traditional” outpatient programs? Three hundred and thirty-eight patients in 6 “intensive” outpatient (10) programs (three or more times weekly) were compared with 580 patients from 10 “traditional” outpatient (TO) programs (one or two times weekly) on severity of admission problems, treatment services received and six month outcomes. Results: 10 subjects generally had the most severe medical, employment, legal and psychiatric problems at admission. 10 patients received more alcohol and drug focused services; but fewer medical and employment focused services man the TO patients. Both groups received very few psychosocial services. There were not significant differences between the 10 and TO program samples at follow-up. However, both groups showed significant reductions in substance use, improvements in personal health and social function.
Transition-metals and their alloys

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the transition metals, emphasizing the phases in which they and their alloys form, the competition among these phases, and their magnetism. The hybridization between electron levels and the consequent bonding energy has been encountered. The two levels may be associated with orbitals centered on the adjacent atoms of a diatomic molecule or they might reside at the same atomic site in a crystal, where they are allowed to mix by symmetry. If the orbitals mix, there will be high-lying orbital character mixed into the lower orbital and vice versa. The Friedel model illuminates transition-metal alloying trends. The traditional and the site-specific population analyses offer different perspectives of the bonding behavior.
Defect Detection and Quantification in Laminated Composites by EATF (Passive) Thermography

For over twenty years [1–3, for example] thermography has been under development as a nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technique for composite materials. Several techniques are in use in laboratory, manufacturing quality control, and field inspection applications. The purpose of this paper is to present the capabilities of the externally applied thermal field (EATF) [4] (also called passive [5]) thermographic NDE method, to discuss the applications for which it seems best suited, to describe its limitations, and to highlight directions of further development.
Quantum critical transition from charge-ordered to superconducting state in the negative- U extended Hubbard model on a triangular lattice

We demonstrate a robust frustration-driven charge order to superconductivity transition in the half-filled negative-$U$ extended Hubbard model. Superconductivity extends over a broad region of the parameter space. We argue that the model provides the correct insight to understanding unconventional superconductivity in the organic charge-transfer solids and other quarter-filled systems.
The impact of changes in DoD policy on reliability and sustainment

Taxpayer and Congressional confidence in the ability of the Department of Defense (DoD) to acquire and sustain effective, affordable weapons has been seriously undermined by failed procurements such as the US Air Force Tanker procurement, Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports documenting major delays in schedule and cost overruns, and internal DoD assessments that systems do not meet requirements and are not deployable. The Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009 [1] and updated policy have strengthened Pentagon oversight and accountability for schedule and cost control. Revitalized Systems Engineering processes are in place to reduce risk. A Sustainment Key Performance Parameter provides for early design influence to meet operational needs and reduce ownership costs. Reconstitution of an adequately staffed, trained and experienced workforce is underway.
Analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rRNA genes in fungal communities in a southeastern U.S. salt marsh.

The ascomycete community colonizing decaying Spartina alterniflora blades in a southeastern U.S. salt marsh was characterized by analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of fungal rRNA genes. ITS sequences were amplified with ascomycete-specific primers from DNA extracted from S. alterniflora blades at two stages of decay (early and late) and were identified based on sequence analysis of a companion ascomycete culture collection. The S. alterniflora ITS libraries were dominated by clones from three species of ascomycetes: Mycosphaerella sp. 2, Phaeosphaeria spartinicola, and Phaeosphaeria halima. ITS sequences from five other less abundant ascomycete species were also found in the clone libraries, only two of which could be identified based on the culture collection, Hydropisphaera erubescens and a new species nick-named '4clt'. Ascospore expulsion assays indicated dominance by the same three species as the ITS analysis, although this non-molecular approach differed from the molecular method in relative ranking of the dominant species and in characterization of minor species. Analysis of ITS amplicons from three replicate plots by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis showed significant spatial homogeneity in ascomycete community composition for both early- and late-stage decay. ITS sequence analysis identified morphologically cryptic subgroups for two of the three dominant salt marsh ascomycetes.
An effect of temperature on the Bacillus subtilis transfer RNA's which respond to codons beginning with U and a correlation with cytokinin activity

Abstract 1. 1. The fraction of unaminoacylated tRNA's from Bacillus subtilis that requires 1 M NaCl and 10% ethanol for elution from benzoylated DEAE-cellulose (BD-cellulose) contains amino acid acceptor activities for phenylalanine, serine, tyrosine, leucine, cysteine, and tryptophan. Codons beginning with U code for only the amino acids in this set. The amount of each of these tRNA species which binds to BD-cellulose is dependent on temperature. At 70°, more of these tRNA species require the addition of ethanol for elution. 2. 2. The chromatographic behavior of cytokinin activity is dependent on temperature in a similar manner. At room temeprature, some cytokinin activity is found in both 1 M NaCl eluted fractions and the fraction which requires 1 M NaCl and 10% ethanol for elution. At 70°, however, all cytokinin activity is retarded until ethanol is added to the eluant. 3. 3. The same effect caused by running the BD-cellulose column at 70° can be achieved by pretreating the tRNA's at 70° for 10 min and then running the column at room temperature. 4. 4. An explanation of this phenomenon is discussed in terms of molecular structure.
The screening of 4f moments and delocalization in the compressed light rare earths

Spin and charge susceptibilities and the 4f{sup n}, 4f{sup n{+-}1} configuration weights are calculated for compressed Ce (n=1), Pr (n=2), and Nd (n=3) metals using dynamical mean field theory combined with the local-density approximation. At ambient and larger volumes these trivalent rare earths are pinned at sharp 4f{sup n} configurations, their 4f moments assume atomic-limiting values, are unscreened, and the 4f charge fluctuations are small indicating little f state density near the Fermi level. Under compresssion there is dramatic screening of the moments and an associated increase in both the 4f charge fluctuations and static charge susceptibility. These changes are coincident with growing weights of the 4f{sup n-1} configurations, which it is argued are better measures of delocalization than the 4f{sup n+1} weights which are compromised by an increase in the number of 4f electrons caused by rising 6s, 6p bands. This process is continuous and prolonged as a function of volume, with strikingly similarity among the three rare earths, aside from the effects moderating and shifting to smaller volumes for the heavier members. The observed {alpha}-{gamma} collapse in Ce occurs over the large-volume half of this evolution, the Pr analog at smaller volumes, and Nd has no collapse.
The peptic activation of acetyltrypsinogen: physicochemical properties of the active derivative.

The active derivative (ATd) produced by the peptic degradation of acetyltrypsinogen had the following physicochemical properties: 1. 1. A molecular weight of 5500–6500 based on its amino acid composition and reaction with DF32P. 2. 2. An N-terminal residue of phenylalanine. 3. 3. A sedimentation constant of 0.95S. ATd appears to possess a broader specificity than trypsin as evidenced by its ability to hydrolyze tyrosine methyl ester and oxidized insulin to a much greater degree than trypsin. The implication of these findings in relation to the structural and catalytic features of trypsin is discussed.
Self-consistent embedding quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics method with applications to metals

We present a quantum mechanics QM/molecular mechanics MM method for coupling Kohn-Sham density-functional theory with classical atomistic simulations based on a self-consistent embedding theory. The formalism and numerical implementation of the method are described. The QM/MM method is employed to study extended defects—a grain boundary and an edge dislocation in Al by focusing on hydrogen H-defect interactions. We find that it is energetically more favorable for H impurities to segregate at the grain boundary and the dislocation core as opposed to the bulk. We provide direct first-principles evidence that both the grain boundary and the dislocation could serve as a “pipe” to accelerate H diffusion and shed light on the corresponding atomistic mechanisms. The results demonstrate that the QM/MM method is a powerful approach in dealing with extended defects in materials.
First Total Synthesis of Mycothiol and Mycothiol Disulfide

The first total synthesis of mycothiol and mycothiol disulfide was achieved by linking d-2,3,4,5,6-penta-O-acetyl-myo-inositol, O-(3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl)-2-azido-2-deoxy-α,β-d-glucopyranosyl) trichloroacetimidate, and N,S-diacetyl-l-cysteine and deprotecting peracetylated mycothiol. The first full spectral characterization is reported for underivatized mycothiol. The structure of mycothiol was confirmed by spectral analysis of the known bimane derivative.
Creation of a novel hemodialysis bridge graft to extend the life of an adolescent

All conventional dialysis access options were exhausted in a 19-year-old girl with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Her course was medically and psychosocially complicated. To save her life, a subclavian artery to right atrium hemodialysis bridge graft was created so that she could be dialyzed successfully. Adolescents and young adults confronted with the exhaustion of dialysis access and transplant options face extremely difficult management decisions. Attention to the multi-disciplinary needs of these patients and a combined effort by medical, surgical, psychological, and social work teams are necessary to address properly these dilemmas.
Modeling a Low-Energy Ballistic Lunar Transfer Using Dynamical Systems Theory

Low-energy ballistic lunar transfers are analyzed, modeled, and constructed in this paper using dynamical systems theory. An example ballistic lunar transfer is presented here that a spacecraft may use to transfer between a 185 km circular low Earth orbit and a halo orbit about the Earth–moon L2 point using no deterministic maneuvers apart from the translunar injectionmaneuver. This transfer ismodeled in the patched three-bodymodel bymapping the invariantmanifolds of libration orbits. An energy analysis is presented that shows howa spacecraft’s energywith respect to the Earth and moon as well as its Jacobi constant in the sun–Earth/moon and Earth–moon three-body systems change throughout the transfer. The low-energy transfer and the methods used to produce it are then validated by reconstructing the trajectory in the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s DE405 planetary and lunar ephemeris model of the solar system. Finally, it is shown that the low-energy transfer requires approximately 19.7% less V than a conventional direct lunar transfer to the same orbit. Discussions are provided throughout the paper that consider how a ballistic lunar transfermay be a beneficial trajectory option for the transport ofmaterial between the Earth and the moon.
A study on the positive ellipticity in the circular dichroism of ribonuclease A.

Abstract The small positive elliplicity near 239 nm in the CD spectrum of RNase has been investigated as a function of pH. Theoretical calculations using CD parameters representing buried or exposed tyrosine residues have been carried out. A comparison of the theoretical calculations with experimental data suggests that the changes in the band's intensity, as a function of pH, arise mainly from electronic transitions associated with the tyrosine residues. The buried tyrosine residues are the major contributors to the ellipticity in this region at neutral pH. At higher pH contributions from exposed residurs are also observed.
Factors Affecting the Mechanical Properties of Laminated Glass/Graphite-Epoxy Hybrid Composites:

Mechanical properties of woven fabric reinforced glass/graphite-epoxy hybrid composite materials were evaluated. Three different material configurations, all based on the same volume fraction ratio (Vf), were used. The effect of production parameters on impact and stress–strain behavior was investigated. ANOVA analysis was performed to find the influence of each parameter on the mechanical properties and the relations between parameters. Thickness of the composite and hybrid combination had effect on stress–strain and impact properties. Molding pressure gave significant rate on stress properties. Failure mechanisms of the laminates were evaluated. Different failure behavior between hybrid and glass structures was observed. Obvious delamination zones were observed with some samples. Regression models for defined variables and mechanical properties were generated.
On becoming a child advocate in school psychology

Abstract Child advocacy is becoming an important concept as well as practice in education and other serivices for children. There are definite societal reasons for the evolution of formal advocacy mechanisms, not the least of which is the functioning of professionals. School psychology provides an ideal opportunity for many child advocacy concepts to be implemented. However, the individual psychologists must have a personal commitment to “follow through” to see that children's needs are met. Child advocacy can be built into the school psychology training program in both philosophy and practice.
Computed tomographic-based estimation of airway size with correction for scanned plane tilt angle

A new technique for airway measurement that simultaneously estimates airway tilt angle, caliber, and wall thickness is presented. An idealized (circular cross-section) airway model is parameterized by airway caliber, wall thickness, and tilt angle. Using a 2D CT slice and the full-width-half-max principle we form an estimate of the inner and outer airway wall locations. We then fit ellipses to the inner and outer airway walls using a direct least squares fit and use the major and minor axes of the ellipses to estimate the tilt angle. The airway model is then initialized with tilt angle and size estimates and convolved with the 3D scanner PSF to generate a predicted image. We compare predicted versus actual images to determine the goodness-of-fit. The initial airway parameters are refined using a multi-dimensional, unconstrained, non-linear minimization routine (Nelder-Mead). When optimization converges, airway model parameters estimate the airway inner and outer radii, and tilt angle. Results using a plexiglass phantom show that tilt angle could be estimated to within plus or minus 5 degrees, the inner radius to within about one half of a pixel, and the outer radius to within one pixel.
The Use of Fluoxetine in an Adolescent with Prader-Willi Syndrome

A case of a 17-year-old female with a diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome, including mild mental retardation, compulsive eating with gross obesity and trichotillomania with trichophagia, is presented. She has a long history of multiple cognitive, behavioral, and psychopharmacological treatments, including several inpatient hospitalizations that had produced only limited success. With the introduction of a fluoxetine trial, she demonstrated a marked improvement in weight control and a moderate improvement in hair pulling over a 6-month period of observation.
The Tarring and Feathering of Thomas Paul Smith: Common Schools, Revolutionary Memory, and the Crisis of Black Citizenship in Antebellum Boston

The essay explores an 1851 incident of violence among black Bostonians centering on conflicts about the merits of school desegregation. The episode reveals differing concepts of and approaches to citizenship in the African-American community, tensions that were exacerbated by abolitionist activity, Revolutionary memory, and the Fugitive Slave Law.
An improved method for measuring vapor pressure by DSC with automated pressure control

Abstract Vapor pressure measurements are necessary for a wide range of applications in the chemical industry. Traditional methods require 10–30 ml of sample, 6–8 h of operator time, and multiple measurements for high precision data. With a modification to the pressure differential scanning calorimeter cell, use of hermetic-type pans with pin-holed lids, and the addition of a pressure controller, vapor pressure measurements from 5–760 torr can be obtained. These measurements use less than 1 ml of sample, take about 2 h of operator time, and achieve high precision data on a single set of measurements.
Topoisomerase II-mediated DNA Cleavage and Religation in the Absence of Base Pairing ABASIC LESIONS AS A TOOL TO DISSECT ENZYME MECHANISM

The interaction of topoisomerase II with its DNA cleavage site is critical to the physiological functions of the enzyme. Despite this importance, the specific enzyme-DNA interactions that drive topoisomerase II-mediated DNA cleavage and religation are poorly understood. Therefore, to dissect interactions between the enzyme and its cleavage site, abasic DNA lesions were incorporated into a bilaterally symmetrical and identical cleavage site. Results indicate that topoisomerase II has unique interactions with each position of the 4-base overhang generated by enzyme-mediated DNA cleavage. Lesions located 2 bases 3' to the point of scission stimulated cleavage the most, whereas those 3 bases from the point of scission stimulated cleavage the least. Moreover, an additive and in some cases synergistic cleavage enhancement was observed in oligonucleotides that contained multiple DNA lesions, with levels reaching >60-fold higher than the wild-type substrate. Finally, topoisomerase II efficiently cleaved and religated a DNA substrate in which apyrimidinic sites were simultaneously incorporated at every position on one strand of the 4-base overhang. Therefore, unlike classical DNA ligases in which base pairing is the driving force behind closure of the DNA break, it appears that for topoisomerase II, the enzyme is responsible for the spatial orientation of the DNA termini for ligation.
Three-dimensional crack in the interior of a half-space

In this note, integral equations for the problem of an internal plane crack of arbitrary shape in a three-dimensional elastic half-space are derived. The crack plane is assumed to beparallel to the free surface. Use is made of Mindlin's point force solution in the interior of a semi-infinite solid in deriving the integral equations for the problem.
Competing properties of mucoadhesive films designed for localized delivery of imiquimod

Oral mucosal delivery has gained prominence in the last two decades because the rich vasculature of the tissue enables rapid delivery and avoidance of first pass metabolism. Although commercial mucoadhesives are used for systemic delivery, systems are not currently available for treatment of local conditions. In the present work, mucoadhesive films are being developed for locally controlled release of an immune response modifier for preventing precancerous lesions from progressing to oral squamous cell carcinoma. Previous research showed that films composed of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) released imiquimod in a sustained manner for 3 h. In continuing development of the system, additional key properties were investigated with changes in composition. While adhesive properties in pull-off (0.42 ± 0.03 to 1.1 ± 0.1 N cm−2) and shear adhesion (1.7 ± 0.25 to 5.6 ± 1.4 N cm−2) increased with increasing PVP content of films, tensile properties, such as modulus (6.9 ± 1.5 to 1.8 ± 0.2 MPa) and ultimate strength (4.2 ± 0.7 to 2.1 ± 0.02 MPa), decreased as PVP content increased. Release profiles of the films showed that an increased PVP content resulted in burst release and faster erosion compared to sustained release and slower erosion with more CMC. Studies of transport kinetics showed that the films doubled the amount of imiquimod localized within epithelium compared to drug in solution, increasing their potential for local treatment of oral dysplasia. The mucoadhesive drug delivery system based on CMC and PVP offers a wide range of these properties without addition of new constituents.
A Standard for Evaluation of Dairy Sires Proved in Dairy Herd Improvement Associations

Summary 1. From the lists of sires proved in dairy herd improvement associations, compiled by the Bureau of Dairy Industry, formulas have been derived for estimating the average expected production of daughters according to the productive level of the dams. 2. This average expected production of milk, of fat, and for fat percentage is presented in graphical form, to be used as a guide in evaluating progeny tested bulls and in predicting probable production of future daughters. 3. A modification of Norton's sire index is suggested for comparative rating of sires. Twice the deviation of the sire's daughters’ production from the expected is added (negative deviations carrying a minus sign) to the breed average for potential performance of sire to give an estimate of the sire's hypothetical productive ability under average environment for the population. 4. To estimate probable production of future daughters, the deviation of his daughters’ production from expected is added (deviations below expected being treated as negative values) to the expected production estimated for daughters of the cows to which he is to be mated. 5. This method applies the equal parent principle with a simple and workable allowance for regression and general differences of environment.
Anodic Growth of Highly Ordered TiO2 Nanotube Arrays to 134 μm in Length

Described is the fabrication of self-aligned highly ordered TiO2 nanotube arrays by potentiostatic anodization of Ti foil having lengths up to 134 μm, representing well over an order of magnitude i...
The possible origin and persistence of life on Enceladus and detection of biomarkers in the plume

The jets of icy particles and water vapor issuing from the south pole of Enceladus are evidence for activity driven by some geophysical energy source. The vapor has also been shown to contain simple organic compounds, and the south polar terrain is bathed in excess heat coming from below. The source of the ice and vapor, and the mechanisms that accelerate the material into space, remain obscure. However, it is possible that a liquid water environment exists beneath the south polar cap, which may be conducive to life. Several theories for the origin of life on Earth would apply to Enceladus. These are (1) origin in an organic-rich mixture, (2) origin in the redox gradient of a submarine vent, and (3) panspermia. There are three microbial ecosystems on Earth that do not rely on sunlight, oxygen, or organics produced at the surface and, thus, provide analogues for possible ecologies on Enceladus. Two of these ecosystems are found deep in volcanic rock, and the primary productivity is based on the consumption by methanogens of hydrogen produced by rock reactions with water. The third ecosystem is found deep below the surface in South Africa and is based on sulfur-reducing bacteria consuming hydrogen and sulfate, both of which are ultimately produced by radioactive decay. Methane has been detected in the plume of Enceladus and may be biological in origin. An indicator of biological origin may be the ratio of non-methane hydrocarbons to methane, which is very low (0.001) for biological sources but is higher (0.1-0.01) for nonbiological sources. Thus, Cassini's instruments may detect plausible evidence for life by analysis of hydrocarbons in the plume during close encounters.
MULTIPLE PSYCHIATRIC COMPETENCY EXAMINATIONS IN BOROUGH OF THE BRONX

The sample of 137 people had been referred for multiple psychiatric competency examinations over an 11-yr. period. The study examined the relationships between the decision on competency and many demographic, psychiatric, and criminal history variables. On many variables there were no significant differences between those found competent and those found incompetent but those subjects deemed incompetent were more likely to be diagnosed as schizophrenic or psychotic. Suggestions for future research are offered.
Facile synthesis and patterning of silver nanoparticles for surface plasmon generation

A facile single step strategy for the synthesis and large area patterning of silver nanoparticles via photodecomposition of a photoactive silver nitrite aliphatic amine complex was developed. Decomposition of the silver complex was facilitated using either a UV or an Argon ion laser (514.5 nm) irradiation. The synthesis was performed both in solution and thin films. The silver nanoparticles displayed characteristic localized surface plasmon resonance in theabsorptionspectrum.Utilizinglaserbeaminterference,silvernanoparticlesweresynthesized and,aswell,patternedinasinglestep. C 2011SocietyofPhoto-OpticalInstrumentationEngineers(SPIE).
Reactions of molybdenum and tungsten alkyl and aryl complexes that contain a triamidoamine ligand with carbon monoxide

Abstract [N3NF]W(Ph) and [N3NF]W(3,5-Me2C6H3) ([N3NF]3−=[(C6F5NCH2CH2)3N]3−) react with one equivalent of CO to yield the η2 acyl complexes, [N3NF]W(COPh) (1a), and [N3NF]W(CO-3,5-Me2C6H3) (1b), while [N3N]MoMe ([N3N]3−=[(Me3SiNCH2CH2)3N]3−) reacts with CO to give what is believed to be a simple CO adduct, [N3N]Mo(CO)Me, and then with additional CO, a species that has been identified as the dicarbonyl complex, [N(CH2CH2NSiMe3)2CH2CH2NC(Me)(OSiMe3)]MO(CO)2, in which three equivalents of CO have been incorporated.
Improved computer algorithm for characterizing skewed chromatographic band broadening : I. Method

Abstract A method of extracting column band-broadening parameters from skewed and noisy chromatographic peaks is derived from an exponentially modified Gaussian peak model. In the proposed method of determining peak variance and peak skew, only four peak parameters need to be measured from an experimental chromatographic peak: peak retention time, peak height, peak area and the first moment or center of gravity of the peak. This proposed method is more accurate and less susceptible to baseline noise than those previously described.
The effect of aerosol distribution on airway responsiveness to inhaled methacholine in patients with asthma

It has been demonstrated that airway deposition of inhaled aerosols is more heterogeneous in patients with asthma than in normal subjects. Nevertheless, the influence of abnormal airway deposition on responses to bronchoactive aerosols is poorly understood. We altered bronchopulmonary deposition heterogeneity of methacholine aerosol in nine asymptomatic patients with asthma by controlling inspiratory flow at high (approximately 60 L/min) versus low (approximately 12 L/min) rates on 2 study days and determined the effect on the provocative dose of methacholine causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PD20) (often used as a measure of airway responsiveness). Deposition uniformity was quantified from gamma-camera scans of the lungs in terms of the distribution of a technetium-labeled aerosol that was inhaled rapidly or slowly before the inhalation of methacholine. Increased deposition in an inner (large, central airways) versus an outer (peripheral airways and alveoli) zone of the right lung (inner/outer ratio, greater than 1) and higher values of skew (an index of deposition asymmetry) and kurtosis (an index of deposition range) indicated enhanced heterogeneity of deposition. Mean (+/- SD) inner/outer ratio was significantly higher during rapid inspiration compared to slow inspiration with 2.91 +/- 0.51 and 1.84 +/- 0.30, respectively (p less than 0.01). Mean skew and kurtosis were also significantly higher after rapid inspiration, with 1.12 +/- 0.35 and 3.86 +/- 1.25, respectively, compared to 0.74 +/- 0.36 and 2.64 +/- 0.77 after slow inhalation (p less than 0.01). Geometric mean PD20 methacholine was significantly reduced when the aerosol was inhaled rapidly, with 5.9 cumulative methacholine units compared to 15.7 units after slow inhalation (p less than 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Sublethal copper toxicity impairs chemical orientation in the crayfish, Orconectes rusticus.

Abstract Before reaching concentrations that are high enough to cause mortality, elevated levels of chemical pollution can significantly alter a keystone indicator species’ ability to extract sensory information. To organisms that rely on chemical signals to make crucial ecological decisions, increased amounts of a pollutant may impact chemoreceptive abilities by altering the perception of the sensory landscape or impairing the functioning of sensory organs. Heavy metal pollutants entering an aquatic ecosystem are of increasing concern due to discernible effects on chemoreception in many ecologically and economically important species. In order to determine the effects of sublethal copper toxicity on chemically mediated behavior, male and female rusty crayfish, Orconectes rusticus , were exposed to ecologically relevant concentrations of copper (4.5, 45, and 450 µg/l) for 120 h. Following exposure, crayfish were allowed to orient toward a food odor stimulus. During orientation trials, select crayfish oriented under a point or nonpoint source copper background pollutant at the same concentration as the exposure period. Orientation trials were videotaped and analyzed using EthoVision XT 8.5 (Noldus Information Technology, The Netherlands) for differences in overall success in locating the food source and orienting parameters. Significant differences were found in the overall orientation ability of O. rusticus to locate an odor source when previously exposed to copper in combination with a source of pollution in the background of orientation trials. Crayfish exposed to copper in any capacity during the experiment (regardless of concentration or background during trials) showed slower walking speeds toward the source, decreased turning angles, increased heading angles toward the source, and decreased upstream heading angles. Results from this experiment support that copper impairs the ability of crayfish to detect, process, and/or respond appropriately to chemosensory information in order to successfully localize a food odor source.
Ramanujan's ¿Lost¿ notebook IX: the partial theta function as an entire function

Abstract We establish the infinite product expansion for ∑ n≧0 a n q n 2 . This is a corrected version of the expansion stated in Ramanujan's “Lost” Notebook. The proof requires the study of a new family of polynomials which while not orthogonal have many similar properties.
Effect of constant light on DMBA mammary tumorigenesis in rats.

Abstract A study of light, and mammary tumorigenesis was conducted in rats. One-hundred female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided by weight into two groups. One group was exposed to constant light (LL) from 26 days of age, and the second group was exposed to 8 h light and 16 h dark per day (LD). Both groups received an 8 mg dose of a chemical carcinogen, dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) at 52 days of age. At 13 weeks post-DMBA, there were significantly fewer mammary tumors in the LL group compared with the LD group. Constant light was clearly demonstrated to have a profound effect on mammary tissue development. Although virgin, the majority of the LL rats (29/50) had gross evidence of lactation at 141 days of age. None of the LD rats (0/50) showed evidence of milk production. These results suggest that constant light not only substantially accelerated mammary gland development, but pushed development of the tissue past the stage normally observed in virgin animals (to the lactation stage).
Measuring adolescent well-being: the development of a standardized measure for adolescents participating in orphans and vulnerable children programming

Orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) programs in developing countries aim to improve overall well-being of OVC. However, traditional OVC development programs cover multiple programmatic areas (i.e., health, economic, education), and measuring the net effects of these interventions on a child has been exceptionally difficult at the field level. To improve monitoring and evaluation of OVC programs, the authors used a scientific process to develop a self-reported OVC Well-being Tool (OWT), for adolescents aged 13–18 years. The OWT was piloted through a five-country Catholic Relief Services OVC project to 890 adolescents and was validated against the Children's Hope Scale and evaluation survey data. Advanced statistical analyses, along with feedback from the pilot countries, were used to further refine the OWT. The resulting tool is 36 questions long and takes approximately 20 minutes to administer. Results can be used to monitor OVC programs over time, identify trends, and actively engage OVC in the monitor...
Runtime dynamics in collaborative systems

The importance of supporting flexible roles and dynamic policies has long been recognized in the CSCW (Computer-Supported Cooperative Work) literature but unfortunately never with a systematic solution. This paper proposes a taxonomy of runtime dynamics in collaborative systems in general and discusses our solution in the COCA framework. Firstly, individual participants can take roles, drop roles, and switch between roles as a collaboration runs, Secondly, a role can be transferred from one participant to another at runtime. Thirdly, session-wide, authorized participants can change the definition of roles and coordination policies on the fly while keeping the mapping between roles and participants. When such changes happen on the fly, the runtime environment of the sites which are potentially affected, including the state information within the computation modules and the communication channels, must be handled properly according to the semantics of the collaboration itself.
Separating stimulus-locked and unlocked components of the auditory event-related potential

Abstract A new method is evaluated for separating stimulus-locked and unlocked components of auditory event-related EEG activity. The new method uses a regression based subtraction procedure as a way to account for latency and amplitude variability within individual trials. It was applied using the oddball paradigm under conditions of active and passive listening and analyzed as spectral correlations (normalized differences) between post-stimulus epochs of standard, target or deviant stimulus conditions and silent pre-stimulus baseline activity. The regression-subtraction procedure accounted for a greater amount of variance than a method that uses linear subtraction alone. The major component of the response to auditory stimulation was an event-related synchronization in the delta and theta (2–4 Hz) frequency range. Event-related desynchronizations were also observed in the 10 Hz (alpha/mu) and in the 20–30 Hz (beta) frequency range. The regression based subtraction procedure provides better separation of stimulus-locked and unlocked components of event-related EEG activity then linear subtraction alone. Stimulus-locked and unlocked components show different patterns and topographies of effects related to attention and active discrimination. Studying both stimulus-locked and unlocked components of event-related EEG reactivity in the frequency domain provides a more comprehensive account of dynamic brain activity subserving auditory information processing.