cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Architecture for access to a compute-intensive image mosaic service in the NVO

The National Virtual Observatory (NVO) will provide on-demand access to data collections, data fusion services and compute intensive applications. The paper describes the development of a framework that will support two key aspects of these objectives: a compute engine that will deliver custom image mosaics, and a "request management system," based on an e-business applications server, for job processing, including monitoring, failover and status reporting. We will develop this request management system to support a diverse range of astronomical requests, including services scaled to operate on the emerging computational grid infrastructure. Data requests will be made through existing portals to demonstrate the system: the NASA/IPAC Extragalactic Database (NED), the On-Line Archive Science Information Services (OASIS) at the NASA/IPAC Infrared Science Archive (IRSA); the Virtual Sky service at Caltech's Center for Advanced Computing Research (CACR), and the yourSky mosaic server at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Breastfeeding and Methadone Therapy: The Maternal Experience

Paper Presentation Objective To describe perceptions surrounding breastfeeding decisions and management among pregnant and postpartum women taking methadone. The results of the study are expected to inform the development of targeted breastfeeding interventions for this group. Design Qualitative content analysis using maternal individual interviews (during pregnancy) and focus groups (after delivery). Setting Recruitment and interviews occurred at an outpatient obstetric clinic at a large, urban teaching hospital and a drug treatment program for pregnant women. Sample Seven women in their second or third trimesters participated in individual interviews. Four women in their first years postpartum participated in one of two small focus groups. Women were 18 to 45 years old, prescribed methadone from a drug treatment program, and expressed an interest in breastfeeding. Methods Semistructured, audiotaped interviews and focus groups were conducted by the principal investigator. Transcripts were analyzed and coded for major themes by each author independently and then compared. Results Motivating factors to breastfeed were similar to those described in the general population, but breastfeeding was also seen as a means to alleviate infant withdrawal symptoms. Some women experienced intense guilt about their methadone use and viewed provision of breast milk and/or the physical act of breastfeeding as atonement to the infant. Pregnant participants wanted information about what to expect in the postnatal hospital course and expressed concerns about fitting breastfeeding into daily life, breastfeeding in public, the possibility that breastfeeding would be unsuccessful, and whether the infant could overdose on methadone or contract Hepatitis C from breast milk. Postpartum women reported that nurses did not want to take the time to assist with breastfeeding or intentionally sabotaged breastfeeding efforts. For pregnant and postpartum participants, breastfeeding support was inconsistent. Information from peers was valued but sometimes deemed untrustworthy. More prenatal and postpartum instruction was needed on breastfeeding mechanics, including pumping milk during infant separation. Participants suggested that breastfeeding education include peer‐support under the guidance of a knowledgeable professional, a discussion of breastfeeding benefits, and early hands‐on breastfeeding assistance. Conclusion/Implications for Nursing Practice Despite evidence of unique breastfeeding benefits for methadone‐exposed mothers and infants, research suggests that breastfeeding rates in this population are less than half that reported nationally. The reasons for this disparity have not been adequately investigated. Healthcare providers who care for methadone‐exposed mothers and infants should be educated on therapeutic communication, up‐to‐date contraindications to breastfeeding, the benefits of breastfeeding in methadone‐exposed couplets, and basic breastfeeding interventions, including milk expression.
Distribution feeder caused wildfires: Mechanisms and prevention

Drought conditions in the United States in recent years bring increased attention to the age-old issue of power line-caused fires. It has long been known that power line faults and failures can cause wildfires through multiple mechanisms. Failure mechanisms of various apparatus and operational conditions that result in wildfire ignition are reviewed. Case studies of faults and failures from operating utility systems are presented, along with a discussion of how these faults and failures represent competent sources of ignition for wildfires. Methods of preventing power line-caused wildfires are discussed.
Xanthine oxidase-catalyzed reduction of estrogen quinones to semiquinones and hydroquinones.

Abstract Metabolic redox cycling between the stilbene estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) and diethylstilbestrol-4′,4″-quinone (DES Q) has been demonstrated previously. The xanthine and xanthine oxidase-catalyzed reduction of estrogen quinone has been studied in this work to understand the role of metabolic redox cycling in estrogen metabolism. Xanthine and xanthine oxidase catalyzed the reduction of DES Q to 44% Z -DES and 9% E -DES. This reaction was inhibited by the addition of superoxide dismutase or by a lack of oxygen (under anaerobic conditions). DES Q was also reduced in a non-enzymatic reaction by superoxide radicals generated by potassium superoxide and crown ether. The reaction between the O 2 and DES Q was also investigated by an electron spin resonance spintrapping technique. The superoxide anion generated in an oxygen-saturated xanthine and xanthine oxidase system was detected as 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-1-oxide-superoxide adduct. The addition of DES Q or 2,3-estradiol quinone totally inhibited the formation of this adduct. The reduction of DES Q by superoxide radicals was taken as evidence that this reaction was one possible mechanism of xanthine and xanthine oxidase-mediated reduction. In addition, reduction of DES Q by direct electron transfer to quinone by the enzyme may also occur. The intermediate formation of semiquinone free radicals in the reduction is implied by the nature of the single electron transfer reactions and, in addition, has been demonstrated for the catechol estrogen by electron spin resonance measurements. It is concluded that the reduction of estrogen quinones to their hydroquinones by xanthine oxidase occurs by both one electron transfer to the quinone and by formation of superoxide which then reduces the quinone.
Isolation and characterization of a large "hairpin" segment from avian retrovirus RNA.

Abstract Avian retrovirus RNA (both 70 S and 35 S) possesses several attributes of double-stranded (ds) RNAs. Among them are an affinity for hydroxyapatite equal to that of authentic ds RNAs and exceeding that of any other single-stranded RNA tested except hnRNA, and an unexpectedly high melting temperature of some of its sequences, indicating the presence of intramolecular base-paired regions. Limited digestion with pancreatic RNase A of Prague C strain of Rous sarcoma virus as well as B77 and RAV-2 35 S RNA yielded a product that accounted for about 7% of the total viral RNA, behaved like reovirus ds RNA when chromatographed on hydroxyapatite, possessed a Tm that was similar to that of reovirus ds RNA, was almost as susceptible to RNase III as reovirus ds RNA under conditions when reovirus messenger RNA was completely resistant, and could be isolated as a relatively homogenous component following centrifugation in sucrose density gradients or electrophoresis in formamide-containing polyacrylamide gels. Its properties were consistent with the interpretation that it is a highly (but not perfectly) base-paired hairpin about 350 base pairs long. The was mapped by determining which of various size classes of poly(A)-containing fragments of viral RNA contained it and found to be located in the region between 5000 and 6000 nucleotides from the 3′-terminus of nondefective viral RNA; this region is at, or close to, the junction of the pol and env genes. The fact that the RNA of the helper virus free Bryan high-titer strain of RSV, which lacks most of the env gene, did not yield such a hairpin fragment agrees with this conclusion.
Nitric oxide synthase protein and mRNA are discretely localized in neuronal populations of the mammalian CNS together with NADPH diaphorase

Nitric oxide is a free radical that has been recently recognized as a neural messenger molecule. Nitric oxide synthase has now been purified and molecularly cloned from brain. Using specific antibodies and oligonucleotide probes, we have localized brain nitric oxide synthase to discrete neuronal populations in the rat and primate brain. Nitric oxide synthase is exclusively neuronal, and its localization is absolutely coincident with NADPH diaphorase staining in both rat and primate.
Fixed and periodic point results in cone metric spaces

Abstract Huang and Zhang [L.-G. Haung, X. Zhang, Cone metric spaces and fixed point theorems of contractive mappings, J. Math. Anal. Appl. 332 (2007) 1468–1476] proved some fixed point theorems in cone metric spaces. In this work we prove some fixed point theorems in cone metric spaces, including results which generalize those from Haung and Zhang’s work. Given the fact that, in a cone, one has only a partial ordering, it is doubtful that their Theorem 2.1 can be further generalized. We also show that these maps have no nontrivial periodic points.
Integration of apo-α-phycocyanin into phycobilisomes and its association with FNRL in the absence of the phycocyanin α-subunit lyase (CpcF) in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803.

Phycocyanin is an important component of the phycobilisome, which is the principal light-harvesting complex in cyanobacteria. The covalent attachment of the phycocyanobilin chromophore to phycocyanin is catalyzed by the enzyme phycocyanin lyase. The photosynthetic properties and phycobilisome assembly state were characterized in wild type and two mutants which lack holo-α-phycocyanin. Insertional inactivation of the phycocyanin α-subunit lyase (ΔcpcF mutant) prevents the ligation of phycocyanobilin to α-phycocyanin (CpcA), while disruption of the cpcB/A/C2/C1 operon in the CK mutant prevents synthesis of both apo-α-phycocyanin (apo-CpcA) and apo-β-phycocyanin (apo-CpcB). Both mutants exhibited similar light saturation curves under white actinic light illumination conditions, indicating the phycobilisomes in the ΔcpcF mutant are not fully functional in excitation energy transfer. Under red actinic light illumination, wild type and both phycocyanin mutant strains exhibited similar light saturation characteristics. This indicates that all three strains contain functional allophycocyanin cores associated with their phycobilisomes. Analysis of the phycobilisome content of these strains indicated that, as expected, wild type exhibited normal phycobilisome assembly and the CK mutant assembled only the allophycocyanin core. However, the ΔcpcF mutant assembled phycobilisomes which, while much larger than the allophycocyanin core observed in the CK mutant, were significantly smaller than phycobilisomes observed in wild type. Interestingly, the phycobilisomes from the ΔcpcF mutant contained holo-CpcB and apo-CpcA. Additionally, we found that the large form of FNR (FNRL) accumulated to normal levels in wild type and the ΔcpcF mutant. In the CK mutant, however, significantly less FNRL accumulated. FNRL has been reported to associate with the phycocyanin rods in phycobilisomes via its N-terminal domain, which shares sequence homology with a phycocyanin linker polypeptide. We suggest that the assembly of apo-CpcA in the phycobilisomes of ΔcpcF can stabilize FNRL and modulate its function. These phycobilisomes, however, inefficiently transfer excitation energy to Photosystem II.
Disorder-tuning of hysteresis-loop properties in Co/CoO-film structures

We have studied the effect of magnetic disorder on the magnetization reversal process in thin Co/CoO-films. The antiferromagnetic CoO layer allows a reversible tuning of the magnetic disorder by simple temperature variation, which was experimentally verified by measuring the ferromagnetic resonance linewidth as a function of temperature. The Co/CoO-films exhibit a discontinuous magnetization reversal process for temperatures above a critical temperature Tc, whereas smooth magnetization loops occur for T Tc.
Sapphire-fiber-based white-light interferometric sensor for high-temperature measurements

We present a fiber-optic temperature sensor with a single-crystal sapphire fiber as the light guide and a sapphire wafer as the sensing element. Temperature is determined by measurement of the thermal dependence of the wafer's optical thickness by use of white-light interferometry. We applied digital signal processing techniques to analyze the sensor's spectrum. A prototype sensor was tested to 1600 degrees C and demonstrated excellent reproducibility. An accuracy of +/- 0.2% full scale was obtained. The sensor is simple, small, and flexible, with potential advantages of batch fabrication and easy calibration.
Phylogenetic relationships among marsupial frog genera (Anura: Hylidae: Hemiphractinae) based on evidence from morphology and natural history

Abstract We reassess the phylogenetic relationships of genera of hemiphractine hylid frogs (Marsupial Treefrogs) and discuss the evolution of several distinctive characters within this group using parsimony analysis. Fifty-one morphological and life-history characters were sampled from two species of Cryptobatrachus , three species of Flectonotus , 17 species of Gastrotheca , all five species of Hemiphractus , and one species of Stefania as the ingroup and three hyline, one phyllomedusine, and one pelodryadine species as outgroups. Our results support the monophyly of Flectonotus , Cryptobatrachus , and Hemiphractus . Gastrotheca is paraphyletic with respect to Hemiphractus ; dorsal pouches were lost in the ancestor of Hemiphractus . Direct development is a synapomorphy for Hemiphractinae and tadpoles were regained independently several times. These results stand in stark contrast to the prevailing paradigm regarding marsupial frog relationships.
Using a CBT Approach to Teach Social Skills to Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Social Challenges: The PEERS® Method

Deficits in social functioning are one of the hallmark features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet very few evidence-based social skills programs exist for adolescents with ASD and other social challenges. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of one of the only empirically supported social skills programs for youth with ASD: The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS ®). Developed at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, PEERS® utilizes the principles of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to improve social functioning for youth with ASD and other social difficulties. One of the only empirically-supported social skills programs to disseminate published treatment manuals for mental health professionals and educators, the PEERS® approach applies CBT methods of instruction including: didactic lessons (psychoeducation), role-play demonstrations, cognitive strategies, behavioral rehearsal exercises, performance feedback, homework assignments and review, and parent involvement within a small group treatment format. Results from four randomized controlled trials and one quasi-experimental study reveal significant improvements in overt social skills, frequency of peer interactions, and social responsiveness following this treatment protocol.
Epigenetics: Reversing the 'irreversible'

“Do not speak — unless it improves on silence” is generally wise advice, and is even vital for a subset of essential genes. New studies describe how, when appropriate, the silence of these genes is broken.
Temporal relationships between physical activity and sleep in older women.

AB Purpose: The objective of this study is to examine the temporal and bidirectional relationships between accelerometer-derived physical activity estimates and actigraphy-assessed sleep characteristics among older women. Methods: A subgroup of participants (N = 143, mean age = 73 yr) enrolled in the Healthy Women Study wore an ActiGraph accelerometer on their waist and an Actiwatch sleep monitor on their wrist concurrently for seven consecutive days. Multilevel models examined whether ActiGraph-assessed daily activity counts (ct[middle dot]min-1[middle dot]d-1) and moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA; min[middle dot]d-1) predicted Actiwatch-assessed sleep onset latency, total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and sleep fragmentation. Similar models were used to determine whether nighttime sleep characteristics predicted physical activity the following day. Results: In unadjusted models, greater daily activity counts (B = -0.05, P = 0.005) and more minutes of MVPA (B = -0.03, P = 0.01) were temporally associated with less total sleep time across the week. Greater sleep efficiency was associated with greater daily activity counts (B = 0.37, P = 0.01) and more minutes of MVPA (B = 0.64, P = 0.009) the following day. Less sleep fragmentation was also associated with greater daily activity counts and more MVPA the following day. Findings were similar after adjustment for age, education, body mass index, depressive symptoms, arthritis, and accelerometer wear time. Conclusions: Few studies have used objective measures to examine the temporal relationships between physical activity and sleep. Notably, these findings suggest that nightly variations in sleep efficiency influence physical activity the following day. Thus, improving overall sleep quality in addition to reducing nightly fluctuations in sleep may be important for encouraging a physically active lifestyle in older women. (
Greenland surface melt trends 1973–2007: Evidence of a large increase in 2007

[1] A time series of surface melt extent, frequency and onset has been updated to include data from Electrically Scanning Microwave Radiometer (ESMR) (1973, 1974 and 1976), Scanning Multichannel Microwave Radiometer (SMMR) (1979–1987) and the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) (1987–2007). The seasonal melt departure (SMD), the sum from 1 June to 31 August of the departure from average of each day's melt extent, is a new metric used to describe the amount of melt. Results show a large increase in melt in summer 2007, 60% more than the previous high in 1998. During summer 2007, some locations south of 70°N had as many as 50 more days of melt than average. Melt occurred as much as 30 days earlier than average. The SMD is shown to be significantly related to temperatures at coastal meteorological stations, although 2007 had more melt than might be expected based on the summer temperature record.
Educational benefits of international experiential learning in an MSW program

EnglishProviding an international study experience for MSW students in schools of social work in the USA has become more important in the context of globalization. The authors describe how a brief ...
Kinetics and mechanism of K+- and Na+-induced folding of models of human telomeric DNA into G-quadruplex structures

Cation-induced folding into quadruplex structures for three model human telomeric oligonucleotides, d[AGGG(TTAGGG)3], d[TTGGG(TTAGGG)3A] and d[TTGGG(TTAGGG)3], was characterized by equilibrium titrations with KCl and NaCl and by multiwavelength stopped flow kinetics. Cation binding was cooperative with Hill coefficients of 1.5–2.2 in K+ and 2.4–2.9 in Na+ with half-saturation concentrations of 0.5–1 mM for K+ and 4–13 mM for Na+ depending on the oligonucleotide sequence. Oligonucleotide folding in 50 mM KCl at 25°C consisted of single exponential processes with relaxation times τ of 20–60 ms depending on the sequence. In contrast, folding in100 mM NaCl consisted of three exponentials with τ-values of 40–85 ms, 250–950 ms and 1.5–10.5 s. The folding rate constants approached limiting values with increasing cation concentration; in addition, the rates of folding decreased with increasing temperature over the range 15–45°C. Taken together, these results suggest that folding of G-rich oligonucleotides into quadruplex structures proceeds via kinetically significant intermediates. These intermediates may consist of antiparallel hairpins in rapid equilibrium with less ordered structures. The hairpins may subsequently form nascent G-quartets stabilized by H-bonding and cation binding followed by relatively slow strand rearrangements to form the final completely folded topologies. Fewer kinetic intermediates were evident with K+ than Na+, suggesting a simpler folding pathway in K+ solutions.
Lessons From the Policy World How the Economy, Work Supports, and Education Matter for Low-Income Workers

Work and employment scholars interested in jobs and workers at the lower end of the labor market have much to learn from a recent set of volumes authored by policy scholars. These volumes focus on how shifts in the macroeconomy, work supports, and postsecondary education affect the well-being of workers both on and off the job. This essay identifies some of the more subtle contributions of these volumes to knowledge on the nature of employment. It explains how many of the analyses could benefit, however, from additional consideration of the jobs low-earners perform. The essay concludes by offering specific suggestions for incorporating additional measures of job conditions into policy-relevant research.
Vertical distribution of dimethylsulfide, sulfur dioxide, aerosol ions, and radon over the northeast Pacific ocean

Dimethylsulfide (DMS), sulfur dioxide (SO2), methanesulfonate (MSA), nonsea-salt sulfate (nss-SO4 2−), sodium (Na+), ammonium (NH4 +), and nitrate (NO3 −) were determined in samples collected by aircraft over the open ocean in postfrontal maritime air masses off the northwest coast of the United States (3–12 May 1985). Measurements of radon daughter concentrations and isentropic trajectory calculations suggested that these air masses had been over the Pacific for 4–8 days since leaving the Asian continent. The DMS and MSA profiles showed very similar structures, with typical concentrations of 0.3–1.2 and 0.25–0.31 nmol m−3 (STP) respectively in the mixed layer, decreasing to 0.01–0.12 and 0.03–0.13 nmol m−3 (STP) at 3.6 km. These low atmospheric DMS concentrations are consistent with low levels of DMS measured in the surface waters of the northeastern Pacific during the study period. The atmospheric SO2 concentrations always increased with altitude from <0.16–0.25 to 0.44–1.31 nmol m−3 (STP). The nonsea-salt sulfate (ns-SO4 2−) concentrations decreased with altitude in the boundary layer and increased again in the free troposphere. These data suggest that, at least under the conditions prevailing during our flights, the production of SO2 and nss-SO4 2− from DMS oxidation was significant only within the boundary layer and that transport from Asia dominated the sulfur cycle in the free troposphere. The existence of a ‘sea-salt inversion layer’ was reflected in the profiles of those aerosol components, e.g., Na+ and NO3 −, which were predominantly present as coarse particles. Our results show that long-range transport at mid-tropospheric levels plays an important role in determining the chemical composition of the atmosphere even in apparently ‘remote’ northern hemispheric regions.
Optimum rate Reed-Solomon codes for frequency-hopped spread-spectrum multiple-access communication systems

The authors consider a multiple-access frequency-hopped spread-spectrum communication system with Reed-Solomon codes. The performance measures of interest are an achievable region and the channel throughput. The achievable rate region is the set of all pairs of code rate and number of users for which communication is possible with error probability below a fixed value. The throughput measures the expected number of successful codeword transmissions per unit bandwidth. Two models of interference are considered. For these two models, the authors determine the optimal number of users for a given bandwidth and the optimal rate Reed-Solomon code that maximize the throughput. They also determine the achievable region for these models. >
Synthesis of pigment-binding protein in toluene-treated Rhodopseudomonas capsulata and in cell-free systems.

Pigment-binding protein of the facultatively phototrophic bacterium Rhodospeudomonas capsulata could be selectively synthesized in toluene-treated cells as well as in homologous and heterologous cell-free translation systems by isolated polysomes. It is shown that the pigment-binding polypeptides of the light-harvesting complexes are encoded by messenger RNA of extreme longevity. The dependence of their synthesis on the concomitant synthesis of tetrapyrroles was demonstrated in the toluene-treated cells. The large Mr-28000 polypeptide of the reaction center and the Mr-10000 pigment-binding polypeptide of the light-harvesting complex II were found to be synthesized by free (water-soluble) polysomes without a cleavable ‘leader’ or ‘signal’ peptide [reviewed by W. Wickner (1979) Annu. Rev. Biochem. 48, 23–45]. The Mr-10000 polypeptide, as synthesized in vitro, was studied in more detail. Unlike the membrane-assembled polypeptide in vivo it was insoluble in an organic solvent mixture (chloroform/methanol 1:1, v/v). After detergent denaturation in the presence of membrane isolated from the organism it became organic-solvent-soluble. Obviously the polypeptide could be induced to assume alternative conformations in which its apolar residues were either exposed to the solvent or buried within. These findings, in agreement with Wickner's hypothesis, indicate that the Mr-10000 polypeptide may enter the lipid bilayer by a ‘membrane-triggered’ conformational change.
X-ray crystal structure of tetrachloro(trans-d,l-1,2-diaminocyclohexane) platinum(IV) complex: a potential anticancer agent.

Tetrachloro(trans-d,l-1,2-diaminocyclohexane)platinum(IV) complex (tetraplatin or ormaplatin) has been recognized as a potential anticancer agent. We have determined the crystal Structure of this compound by x-ray single crystal diffraction. It has a unique space group and rare molecular packing. Parameters are as follows: space group R3c (rhombohedral), a = 26.425(4) A, α = 54.50(1)°; V = 11375A3, Z = 36. The coordination about Pt atoms is a slightly distorted octahedron owing to the presence of the geometrically strained five-membered ring (avg. N-Pt-N angle = 82.9°). An intricate network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds holds the crystal lattice together. Three independent ormaplatin molecules surround each water molecule, forming the three shortest A⋯B contacts and thus the three strongest hydrogen bonds.
Nutcracker syndrome: symptoms of syncope and hypotension improved following endovascular stenting

'Nutcracker syndrome' encompasses classical symptoms of hematuria and flank pain resulting from the compression of the left renal vein between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. In patients with unexplained left-sided hematuria, flank pain or non-specific abdominal pain, careful interrogation of diagnostic abdominal imaging should be performed to exclude the possibility of external compression on the left renal vein. The patient discussed in this case report is a 19-year-old woman with unilateral hematuria. Her symptoms started 13 months prior with nausea, lower abdominal pain and weight loss. Six months after the nausea began, she started having syncope, sometimes multiple episodes in one day. Syncope is one of the more rarely reported symptoms associated with nutcracker syndrome. As more cases are reported, endovascular repair is becoming an alternative treatment for nutcracker syndrome. The patient was treated with stenting of her left renal vein. At the three-week follow-up, she reported near resolution of nausea and abdominal pain. She had gained four pounds, no longer had gross hematuria and had had no episodes of syncope and her blood pressure had normalized. Endovascular specialists should be aware of the variety of symptoms that can occur with nutcracker syndrome, including syncope. The severity of these symptoms should guide the recommendation for intervention.
Resection of brain metastases from colorectal carcinoma in 73 patients.

BACKGROUND At the time of diagnosis of colorectal carcinoma, 2–3% of patients are likely to be harboring brain metastases, and another 10% of patients will develop brain lesions during the course of their disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical course of a group of patients with metastatic brain disease who underwent surgical resection in a single institution. The authors believe this information will be useful for establishing prognostic factors and for clinical decision making. METHODS Between 1974 and 1993, 709 consecutive patients underwent surgical resection of brain metastases at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Seventy-three patients had histologically confirmed colorectal carcinoma. The medical records of these patients were reviewed retrospectively, and the data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS The median age of the 43 women and 30 men was 61.5 years. The median interval from the time of diagnosis of the primary tumor and the development of brain metastases was 27.6 months. The primary colorectal tumor was resected in all patients, and the median survival from the day of surgery was 38 months. The median survival from the time of craniotomy was 8.3 months. The 1-year and 2-year survival rates were 31.5% and 6.8%, respectively. Postoperative mortality was 4%. Gender, presence of multiple metastases, presence of lung lesions, and adjuvant brain radiation after craniotomy appeared to have no impact on survival as determined by multivariate Cox analysis. Only the presence of cerebellar brain metastases was associated with decreased survival. CONCLUSIONS The results of this series, which the authors believe is the largest series of resected brain metastases from colorectal carcinoma published to date, indicate that surgical resection may increase the survival of these patients. Analysis of prognostic factors shows that infratentorial tumor location is associated with a poorer survival compared with supratentorial tumor location (5.1 months vs. 9.1 months; P < 0.002). In patients with recurrent brain disease, repeated resection is a worthwhile consideration because it may prolong survival compared with patients who do not undergo re-resection. Cancer 1999;85:1677–85. © 1999 American Cancer Society.
Design of Radio Frequency (RF) MEMS Switches: Modeling

Mechanical modeling of RF MEMS switches is important for performance optimization and device reliability. 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D linear analytical models have been proposed to analyze the electrostatic pull-in of a fixed-fixed beam at small deflection. However, most RF MEMS switch structures work at large deflection range. In this paper, 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D nonlinear analytical models suitable for large structural deflection are developed in a generalized form. In some practical applications, finite element models are required to account for the effects of all the design parameters: switch geometry, non-uniform state of residual stress, temperature and etc. A 3-D finite element model between structural, electrical and thermal domains is developed. This 3-D model is applicable to the design of all types of electrostatic actuators, though that of a capacitive coupling switch was examined.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Endothelin-1 modulates calcium signaling by epidermal growth factor, α-thrombin, and prostaglandin E1 in UMR-106 osteoblastic cells

Local factors play an important role in the regulation of bone metabolism. The homologous and heterologous desensitization of responses to these factors may be crucial in the modulation of bone cell signaling. In this study, the effects and interactions of endothelin-1 (25 nM), alpha-thrombin (0.9 microM), epidermal growth factor (40 nM), prostaglandin E1 (5 microM), and prostaglandin F1 alpha (5 microM) were examined on calcium signaling in UMR-106 rat osteoblastic osteosarcoma cells. Intracellular calcium was measured using fluo-3 fluorescent dye. All agents elicited calcium transients at these concentrations and showed homologous desensitization to their repeated administration. Preincubation for 60 minutes with 500 microM monodansylcadaverine and 30 minutes or 24 h preincubation with 0.5 microM indomethacin did not affect homologous desensitization, suggesting that neither the internalization of receptors nor prostaglandins are involved in this event. Pretreatment for 3 minutes with 2 microM 4 beta-phorbol-12 beta, 13 alpha-dibutyrate significantly reduced the calcium elevations elicited by the first application of these compounds, whereas an inactive phorbol, 12,13-didecanoate, had no effect. Pretreatment for 4 minutes with 0.5 microM forskolin decreased the calcium signal response to PGE1 only. Pretreatment with endothelin-1 for 3 minutes significantly decreased the calcium signals elicited by epidermal growth factor and alpha-thrombin. Prior administration of endothelin-1 significantly increased prostaglandin E1-stimulated calcium transients, whereas prostaglandin F1 alpha responses were not affected. Preincubation with indomethacin did not alter any of the interactions. Responses to endothelin-1 were not significantly altered by 2-3 minutes pretreatment with the other factors, nor was there cross-desensitization among the other factors. The results could indicate that endothelin-1 has a unique and specific role in the modulation of bone cell signaling.
Mechanical properties of the copper-deficient rat heart.

Copper deficiency is known to induce cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac morphologic lesions and altered electrocardiograms. These findings suggest that copper deficiency may also influence the mechanical properties of the myocardium. In the present study, weanling albino rats were fed a copper-deficient (â€"Cu) diet and compared to rats fed the same diet but with copper supplementation in the drinking water (+Cu). Rats were studied during a 1-week period following 4.5-5.5 weeks of treatment. When compared to +Cu rats, the â€"Curats exhibited characteristic signs of copper deficiency, such as reduced body weight, hypoceruloplasminemia, depressed hematocrit, low copper and elevated iron concentration in the liver. The â€"Curats also exhibited cardiac hy pertrophy and both a dilution and depletion of left ventricular norepinephrine. Hearts were perfused and paced at both 27Â° and 37Â°.When compared to hearts from -f-Cu rats, the â€"Cuhearts: 1) had lower spontaneous heart rates, 2) had decreased coronary resistance, 3) gained significant weight during perfusion, 4) consumed more oxygen per unit pressure developed, and 5) developed less systolic pressure with a reduced rate of pressure development. However, the time to peak pressure development, one-half re laxation time, and refractory period were not affected. The altered characteristics of the copper-deficient myocardium may be due to changes in the elastic properties of the muscle, aberrant energy metabolism or norepinephrine depletion. J. Nutr. 112:2142-
Assessment of Interpersonal Influences on Adolescents: The Parent and Peer Influence Scale.

Peer influence is a common topic of interest for parents, clinicians, and researchers, but results from research on the relative importance of parents versus peers influence on adolescents and young adults has been contradictory. For example, some research suggests that peer attitudes about school influences future academic aspirations, other research suggests that parents and peers differ on their level of influence based on topic (e.g., parents are the primary source of influence about moral issues), and other research suggests that peer-oriented children are a product of parental disregard. A reliable and valid measure of the relative strength of parent versus peer influence could enhance research in this area. As a result, the Parent and Peer Inventory Scale (PPI) was developed, which demonstrates strong reliability as well as face and concurrent validity. The PPI can be used both by researchers to address contradictions in the literature, as well as clinicians seeking to evaluate level of peer inf...
Tetrahedral Finite-Volume Solutions to the Navier-Stokes Equations on Complex Configurations

A review of the algorithmic features and capabilities of the unstructured-grid flow solver USM3Dns is presented. This code, along with the tetrahedral grid generator, VGRIDns, is being extensively used throughout the U.S. for solving the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations on complex aerodynamic problems. Spatial discretization is accomplished by a tetrahedral cell-centered finite-volume formulation using Roe''s upwind flux difference splitting. The fluxes are limited by either a Superbee or MinMod limiter. Solution reconstruction within the tetrahedral cells is accomplished with a simple, but novel, multidimensional analytical formula. Time is advanced by an implicit backward-Euler time-stepping scheme. Flow turbulence effects are modeled by the Spalart-Allmaras one-equation model, which is coupled with a wall function to reduce the number of cells in the near-wall region of the boundary layer. The issues of accuracy and robustness of USM3Dns Navier-Stokes capabilities are addressed for a flat-plate boundary layer, and a full F-16 aircraft with external stores at transonic speed.
Streamer discharge simulation in flue gas

Streamer discharges are formed in a dielectric-barrier discharge used for nonthermal plasma generation. The results of simulation of streamer type discharge in a flue gas mixture is reported. A Monte Carlo simulation is done to obtain the transport and appropriate rate coefficients. The transport and rate coefficients calculated from the Monte Carlo is used to solve the conservation equations for electron, positive and negative ions, together with the Poisson's equation. The G-factor (radicals produced per 100 eV of electrical energy input to the discharge) obtained for Townsend-type discharge is higher as compared to a streamer-type discharge. Also experimental results of the SO/sub 2/ removal efficiency is compared to theoretical predictions. >
Interaction between Schwann cells and osteoblasts in vitro.

Aim Given the well-known properties of Schwann cells in promoting nerve regeneration, transplanting Schwann cells into implant sockets might be an effective method to promote sensory responses of osseointegrated implants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interaction between Schwann cells and osteoblasts. Methodology Schwann cells derived from the sciatic nerves of neonatal rat were co-culured with osteoblasts using Transwell inserts. The proliferation of Schwann cells in the co-culture system was evaluated using methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) colorimetric method. Moreover, the secretions and mRNA levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative real-time PCR, respectively. In order to test the effect of Schwann cells on osteoblasts, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Alizerin red staining were performed as well. Results Schwann cells, which were co-cultured with the osteoblasts, showed an intact proliferation during the observation period. Moreover, the gene expression and synthesis of BDNF and NGF were not impaired by the osteoblasts. Meanwhile, co-cultured osteoblasts exhibited a significant increase in the proliferation on day 3 and 6 (P< 0.05). Co-culture of these two types of cells also led to a more intense staining of ALP and an elevated number of calcified nodules. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that, in the in vitro indirect co-culture environment, Schwann cells can maintain their normal ability to synthesize neurotrophins, which then enhance the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts.
Chilliwack composite terrane in northwest Washington: Neoproterozoic–Silurian passive margin basement, Ordovician–Silurian arc inception

The Chilliwack composite terrane in northwest Washington is part of an assemblage of mid-Paleozoic arc terranes extending from California to Alaska. Some terranes bear evidence of exotic origin, wh...
Formulation of meningococcal capsular polysaccharide vaccine-loaded microparticles with robust innate immune recognition

Neisseria meningitidis is a leading cause of bacterial meningitis and sepsis associated with a high mortality rate. Capsular polysaccharides (CPSs) are a major virulence factor and form the basis for serogroup designation and protective vaccines. The current polysaccharide meningococcal vaccines are available but are very expensive and require chemical conjugation. Here, we report a novel meningococcal vaccine formulation consisting of meningococcal CPS polymers encapsulated in albumin-based biodegradable microparticles that slowly release antigen and induce robust innate immune responses. Vaccines that elicit innate immunity are reported to have enhanced and protective adaptive immune responses. In this study, the meningococcal CPS-loaded microparticles, but not the empty microparticles, induced the release of IL-8, TNF-α and IL-1β, enhanced phagocytic capacity and induced robust autophagy in macrophages. The novel meningococcal vaccine microparticles are robustly taken up by macrophages and elicit stron...
The Influence of Different Encoding Sets Upon the Formation of Illusory Correlations and Group Impressions

Subjects encoded information about two hypothetical groups using either an impression formation or memorization encoding set. One group was 44% as large as the other. In all, 33% of the information was negative and 67% of the information was positive about each group. Subjects were subsequently asked (1) to recognize the information attributed to each group from a larger list of information, (2) to estimate the number of positive and negative information items ascribed to each group, and (3) to indicate how much they liked each group. Results in the memorization condition replicated the illusory correlation results in memory and liking measures reported in Hamilton and Gifford (1976). However, the impression formation instructions moderated the influence of distinctiveness upon memory measures and eliminated any influence of illusory correlations upon the liking measure. These results are discussed with regard to their relevance for understanding memory/judgment interrelationships.
Vapor Phase Sorption of Formaldehyde on Cotton and Its Role in Formaldehyde Release from Durable Press Cotton

The low concentrations of formaldehyde found in the vicinity of durable press fabrics are due to the high affinity of formaldehyde for cellulosic substrates. Transport of formaldehyde that is generated by hydrolysis of the finish to the atmosphere is controlled by a sorption equilibrium that increasingly favors the cellulosic substrate with decrease in temperature, and the high distribution coefficient at ambient temperatures minimizes the exposure risk. Sorption isotherms follow the Langmuir equation, suggesting site sorption. The high heat of sorption indicates chemical rather than physical sorption and suggests that hemiacetal formation is involved. At temperatures above 65°C, hemiacetals react further to form methylene crosslinks, which are hydrolytically very stable and from which formaldehyde is not recovered by simple extraction with water at 60°C.
Asthma, airflow limitation and mortality risk in the general population

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease co-exist in a significant proportion of patients. Whether asthma increases mortality risk among subjects with airflow limitation remains controversial. We used data from 2121 adult participants in the population-based Tucson Epidemiological Study of Airway Obstructive Disease cohort. At enrolment (1972–1973), participants completed questionnaires and lung function tests. Participants were categorised into four groups based on the combination of airflow limitation (AL; forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 )/forced vital capacity (FVC) In multivariate Cox models, the AL+/asthma+ group had a 114% increased mortality risk during follow-up compared with the AL-/asthma- group (adjusted HR 2.14; 95% CI 1.64–2.79). The corresponding hazard ratios were 1.09 (95% CI 0.89–1.34) and 1.34 (95% CI 1.14–1.57) for the AL-/asthma+ and AL+/asthma- groups, respectively. Among subjects with airflow limitation, asthma was associated with increased mortality risk (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.17–2.12). However, this increased risk was substantially reduced and no longer significant after further adjustment for baseline FEV 1 levels. Similar results were obtained when airflow limitation was defined as FEV 1 /FVC less than the lower limit of normal. In a population-based cohort, subjects with concomitant airflow limitation and asthma had an increased risk of dying, which was mainly related to their baseline lung function deficits.
Fully distributed service configuration management

Configuration management in today's data centers is largely a human activity. Where automation does exist it is usually implemented by centralized management tools that coordinate configuration actions across the entire infrastructure and applications. These systems are limited in scale, reliability, and security. We propose that dependable service configuration management is more naturally implemented by a loose federation of fully distributed and self discovering management systems that interact through controlled information exchange.
Investigation of the morphology of polypropylene − nanoclay nanocomposites

Themorphologydevelopmentinpolypropylene −nanoclaycompositeswithdifferentweightpercentagesofnanoclayadditives was studied using a combination of wide-angle X-ray diffraction, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), polarized optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. SAXS studies showed an increase in long period with increase in additive weightpercentage.Thermalanalysisshowedthateveniftheclayplateletsarenotcompletelyexfoliatedtheycanactaseffective nucleating agents. Studies indicated that the ultimate morphology formation is influenced by both the thermodynamics of mixing and crystallization and spherulite formation. During spherulite growth, unenclosed clay platelets were excluded at the spherulite boundaries. From the observed results, a schematic model of morphology formation in polypropylene −nanoclay composites is proposed. c � 2013 Society of Chemical Industry Supportinginformationmaybefoundintheonlineversionofthisarticle.
The persistence and transfer of learning in industrial settings

The persistence of learning within organizations and the transfer of learning across organizations are examined on data collected from multiple organizations. Results indicate that knowledge acquired through production depreciates rapidly. The conventional measure of learning, cumulative output, significantly overstates the persistence of learning. There is some evidence that learning transfers across organizations: organizations beginning production later are more productive than those with early start dates. Once organizations begin production, however, they do not appear to benefit from learning in other organizations. The implications of the results for a theory of organizational learning are discussed. Managerial implications are described.
Electron observations between the inner edge of the plasma sheet and the plasmasphere

Electron densities between inner edge plasma sheet and plasmasphere as function of geocentric radial distance from OGO-3 electrostatic measurements