cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Basal cell carcinoma of the perianal region: 20-year experience.

INTRODUCTION: Although basal cell carcinoma remains the most common cutaneous malignancy, its occurrence in the perianal region is very rare. Earlier reports have suggested that basal cell carcinoma in this region may be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma in other regions of the body. METHODS: A chart review of patients with perianal basal cell carcinoma who presented consecutively during a 20-year period (ending December 1996) was performed. Patients included were those with a histologically proven diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma in the perianal region. RESULTS: Twenty-one cases were identified (15 male) with a mean age at diagnosis of 67 (range, 43–81) years. Follow-up data were available on 19 patients with a mean follow-up time of 72 (range, 2–214) months. Seventeen patients were treated by local excision, one by electrocautery, and one by Moh's surgery. No patients developed a local recurrence. Seven patients (33 percent) had multiple basal cell carcinomas at other anatomic sites. Four patients died of other causes during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Perianal basal cell carcinoma is a rare tumor. Given the significant association with multiple lesions at other sites, a diagnosis of perianal basal cell carcinoma should prompt an examination of all cutaneous surfaces. It does not seem to be more aggressive in this region than in other areas. Local excision seems to provide adequate control.
Costimulatory molecules and T-cell–B-cell interactions

This article focuses on activating and inhibiting costimulatory signals that are delivered to the T cell from antigen-presenting cells, mediating and modulating T-cell clonal expansion and development of effector functions, as well as costimulatory signals that are delivered by activated T cells to interacting target cells. The coordinated expression and interaction of these molecules regulates responses to foreign antigens and avoidance of response to self-antigens. Knowledge of the structure and function of these costimulatory molecules can be used to manipulate immune function and inhibit autoimmunity and inflammation in the setting of disease.
Contemporary Indigenous education: A nature-centered American Indian philosophy for a 21st century world

Abstract This paper recognizes the need to integrate, synthesize, organize, and give focus to the enormous amount of accumulated materials from a wide range of disciplines about American Indian cultures and American Indian education toward the evolution of a contemporary epistemology for American Indian education that is indigenously inspired and ecologically based. Traditional American Indian forms of education must be given serious consideration as conceptual wellsprings for the “new” kinds of educational thought capable of addressing the tremendous challenges of the 21st century.
Ganglion cell death in glaucoma: from mice to men

Glaucoma results from the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and their axons. Over the last 20 years several important advancements have been made in our understanding of the molecular pathology of this disease, particularly through the development of rat models of experimental glaucoma and the characterization of a spontaneous secondary form of glaucoma in DBA/2 substrains of inbred mice. One of these advances is the observation that ganglion cells die by apoptosis, an intrinsic molecular pathway of programmed cell death. An important aspect of this cell death process is the concept that these cells actually undergo compartmentalized self-destruction. Importantly, genetic evidence now suggests that axons die independently of the apoptotic program that executes the cell body or soma. This review briefly summarizes some of the most significant developments in glaucoma research, with respect to the process of ganglion cell degeneration.
MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE PULMONARY VASCULAR BED (PVB) IN CONGENITAL LEFT-SIDED DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA (CLDH)

The contribution of an abnormal PVB to R→L shunting in patients with CLDH and alveolar hypoplasia has not been defined. In 3 infants we analyzed lungs fixed by perfusion. Serial sections were prepared and 5th generation (resistance) vessels identified. Left lung volumes (ml/kg birth weight) were 1.7, 6.5, and 4.0 (control =11.7) and right lung volumes 5.7, 11.5, and 9.8 (control=14.3). Compared to control, medial width/external diameter ratios (m/d) were increased in one lung from each patient: left, m/d=0.25±0.01 (S.E.)(n=50)(p<0.01), m/d=0.21±0.01(n-51), m/d=0.28±0.01(n=43)(p< 0.001); right, m/d-0.21±0.01(n=49), m/d=0.24±0.01(n=48)(p<0.05), m/d=0.22±0.01(n=48); control, m/d=0.21±0.01(n=138). The m/d ratio in the left was greater than right lung in 2/3(p<0.01). We counted the total small muscular vessels in 10 to 30 randomly selected sections from each lung and calculated number of vessels/cm2 lung. In each case there were fewer than control; left 112±8(S.E.), 66±5. 136±8; right 132±12, 197±19, 218±18; control 341±18 vessels/cm2 (p<0.001). There were significantly fewer vessels/cm2 in the left than in the right lung in 2/3(p<0.001). In these patients tolazoline did not improve oxygenation. The data suggest pulmonary vasodilatory therapy may not be effective in these infants since the elevated pulmonary vascular resistance is due to decreased total size of the PVB and reduced number of vessels per unit lung rather than increased vasomotor tone. Supported by UT Grant 5-S01-RR-05426-14, AHA Grant 76-878, and AHA Texas Grant 53940.
Observational study of the frequency of use and perceived usefulness of ancillary manoeuvres to facilitate colonoscopy completion

Abstract Background A paucity of information exists regarding the frequency of use and usefulness of ancillary manoeuvres such as applying abdominal pressure and changing patient position to successfully complete colonoscopy. This information would be useful to understand and improve colonoscopy technique. Aim We sought to determine the frequency, type and perceived success of ancillary manoeuvres used when performing colonoscopy during routine clinical practice. Patients and methods A prospective, observational study was conducted at an outpatient endoscopy centre with a diverse group of colonoscopists. Our hypothesis was that ancillary manoeuvres would be used frequently by endoscopists of varying levels of experience and would be helpful in achieving successful caecal intubation. Information collected included patient and staff characteristics, procedural information and use of ancillary manoeuvres. Additional descriptive information was obtained when a manoeuvre was performed. Results One thousand three hundred and twenty-seven patients participated (691 women; mean age 62.5 ± 12.3). The caecum was reached in 94% of cases. One or more ancillary manoeuvres were used in 73% of cases. Whilst one or two manoeuvres were helpful to achieve caecal intubation, increased manoeuvres were associated with an increased risk of incomplete colonoscopy. Conclusion These data suggest that ancillary manoeuvres are used frequently but are not necessarily predictive of successful caecal intubation. Additional data from prospective, randomised studies are needed to address the overall utility and optimal application of individual manoeuvres.
Not one but two inflammatory bowel disease susceptibility loci map to chromosome 16.

Abstract The association of NOD2 gene mutations with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been reported by multiple research groups. In this high-density linkage experiment using 39 microsatellite markers, Hampe et al. observed a triple-peaked configuration of the linkage curve with peak logarithm of odds (lod) scores of 2.7, 3.2, and 3.1 on proximal 16p, proximal 16q, and central 16q, respectively. An exploratory association analysis yielded a strong lead at D16S3068 (p = 0.00028 for all IBD, 0.0079 for Crohn’s disease), and an IBD-associated haplotype consisting of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (p = 0.00027) was identified. After stratification for NOD2 genotype, the significance levels increased to p = 0.0001 for IBD phenotype; in subphenotype analysis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis significances peaked at p = 0.002 and 0.0076, respectively. Hampe et al. not only confirm the importance of NOD2, but also provide a clear evidence of a second NOD2-independent IBD susceptibility locus on chromosome 16.
Valproic acid effects in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in an animal model of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (PIC) are upregulated in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) modify genetic transcription and can diminish ROS and PIC escalation. They can also modulate levels of neurotransmitters such as catecholamines and serotonin (5-HT). Thus, this study sought to analyze the effects of the HDACi valproic acid (VA) on oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurotransmitter modulation via a predator exposure/psychosocial stress animal model of PTSD. PTSD-like effects were induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=6/group×4 groups). The rats were secured in Plexiglas cylinders and placed in a cage with a cat for 1h on days 1, 11, and 40 of a 40-day stress regimen. PTSD rats were also subjected to psychosocial stress via daily cage cohort changes. At the conclusion of the stress regimen, the treatment group (PTSD+VA) and control group (Control+VA) rats were given VA in their drinking water for 30 days. The rats were then euthanized and their brains were dissected to remove the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Whole blood was collected to assess systemic oxidative stress. ROS and PIC mRNA and protein elevation in the PTSD group were normalized with VA. Anxiety decreased in this group via improved performance on the elevated plus-maze (EPM). No changes were attributed to VA in the control group, and no improvements were noted in the vehicle groups. Results indicate VA can attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation, enhance fear extinction, and correct neurotransmitter aberrancies in a rat model of PTSD.
Properties of the electron-hole liquid in Si: Zero stress to the high-stress limit

We have measured the properties of the electron-hole liquid (EHL) in Si as a function of stress from $\ensuremath{\sigma}=0 \mathrm{to} 163$ kg/${\mathrm{mm}}^{2}$ which is well into the high-stress limit where the valence bands are decoupled. These measurements provide a useful test of many-body theories for EHL in crystals with a simple band structure. To produce these high stresses and to achieve some unique experimental advantages not realized in uniform-stress geometries, we have employed a well-characterized Hertzian stress geometry to strain ultrapure crystals of Si. This geometry creates an electronic potential minimum which confines both electrons and holes inside the crystal volume. At low temperature the $e\ensuremath{-}h$ pairs spatially condense into a small volume (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ ml) of EHL at the bottom of the well. Because the liquid volume is small the EHL exists in a region of effectively uniform stress. This idea is confirmed by separate uniform-stress experiments which are included as a part of our study. We study the EHL properties by analyzing its photoluminescence with spectral, spatial, and time resolution under conditions in which stress, temperature, and photoexcitation level are varied over wide limits. In our spectral analysis, which incorporates stress-dependent band structure, we determine the Fermi energies and $e\ensuremath{-}h$ pair density as it decreases from 3.5 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{18}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ at zero stress to 3.5 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{17}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ in the high-stress limit. Corresponding measurements of the intrinsic EHL time decay show that the lifetime increases from 0.14 to 3.0 \ensuremath{\mu}s over the same stress range. Combining the density and lifetime measurements, we are able to investigate the density dependence of the enhancement factor ${g}_{\mathrm{eh}}(0)$ and the Auger process which dominates $e\ensuremath{-}h$ recombination. We have measured a phase diagram for excitonic gas-EHL at high stress and find a critical point of ${T}_{c}\ensuremath{\approx}20 \mathrm{K}$, ${n}_{c}\ensuremath{\approx}2.5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{17} {\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$. In the high-stress limit the measured EHL binding energy is in the range $\ensuremath{\varphi}=1\ensuremath{-}1.4$ meV. Additional spatial data reveal the presence of a repulsive force between droplets, possibly a "phonon wind," which inhibits large droplet formation. In general, the stress dependence of the ground-state properties shows trends which are in agreement with existing theories. However, some interesting discrepancies between our data and these theories are found.
Fossil Scenedesmus (Chlorococcales) from the Raton Formation, Colorado and New Mexico, U.S.A.

Abstract Fossilized coenobia of the alga Scenedesmus (Chlorococcales) were recovered in palynomorph assemblages from a lower Paleocene mudstone in the Upper Cretaceous and Paleocene Raton Formation of Colorado and New Mexico. This is the first description of fossil Scenedesmus from Tertiary rocks. Two species, Scenedesmus tschudyi sp. nov. and Scenedesmus hanleyi sp. nov., are present in the assemblages. Coenobia of S. tschudyi sp. nov. are characterized by lunate terminal cells and fusiform median cells. As in species of modern Scenedesmus , coenobia of S. tschudyi sp. nov. occur with four or eight cells. Coenobia of S. hanleyi sp. nov. have four oval cells and are smaller than coenobia of S. tschudyi sp. nov. Fossil coenobia of Scenedesmus co-occur with the fossil alga Pediastrum in Raton Formation mudstones. Because these genera co-occur in modern lakes and ponds, the co-occurrence of fossil Scenedesmus and Pediastrum in ancient nonmarine rocks is interpreted to indicate deposition of sediment in freshwater lakes and ponds.
The conductance of cyclic polyether-cation complexes

Precise conductance measurements are reported for sodium, potassium, and cesium salts in methanol and acetonitrile solutions containing cyclic polyethers dibenzo-18-crown-6 and dicyclohexyl-18-crown-6. Decreases in equivalent conductance caused by the addition of a cyclic polyether to solutions of constant ionic strength were analyzed by nonlinear least squares to give association constants and equivalent conductances of the cation-polyether complex. The selectivity observed for the complexing is a function not only of ionic size but also of solvent.
Geochemical Evolution in the Cambrian‐Ordovician Sandstone Aquifer, Eastern Wisconsin: 2. Correlation Between Flow Paths and Ground‐Water Chemistry

A finite-difference ground-water flow model linked to a particle-tracking routine was used to determine ground-water flow paths and residence times in the Cambrian-Ordovician sandstone aquifer of eastern Wisconsin. The modeled region was a cross section along an approximate flow line that included the boundary between unconfmed and confined conditions in the aquifer. Modeling results indicate that lower conductivity units within the sandstone aquifer produce vertically stratified flow in the confined region. These simulation results help explain chemical signatures of ground water in different parts of the aquifer. Three distinct regions of the flow system are identified: the unconfmed zone where vertical mixing across the aquifer yields a homogeneous chemistry, the shallow part of the confined zone where sodium and sulfate charged water from the Maquoketa Shale mixes with water that has migrated from the unconfmed area, and the deeper region of the confined aquifer, containing older water that entered the system in the unconfmed area. Radium activities in ground water increase with distance along flow paths predicted by the simulation, consistent with a low concentration source of solid phase uranium and release of decay products to ground water by desorption and dissolution throughout the sandstone aquifer.
Enhanced therapeutic effect on androgen-independent prostate cancer by depsipeptide (FK228), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, in combination with docetaxel.

Objectives To study whether a histone deacetylase inhibitor, FK228, can enhance therapeutic efficacies of other chemotherapeutic agents against androgen-independent prostate cancer (AIPCa) and to explore any possible early biomarker for predicting drug response. Methods The therapeutic effects of FK228-based combinations on three AIPCa cell lines (PC-3, DU145, and C4-2) were evaluated by synergisms of cytotoxicity. Cell cycle analysis and Western blot assay were used to study the underlying mechanisms of drug action and search for any potential surrogate biomarker. In addition, we investigated the in vivo antitumor effects of the FK228/docetaxel combination using the PC-3 xenograft model. Results FK228/docetaxel surpassed other FK228-based combinations by achieving more synergism of cytotoxicity. FK228 enhanced the therapeutic effect of docetaxel against AIPCa by exhibiting markedly enhanced and prolonged inhibitory effects in vitro and better tumor regression in vivo by inducing apoptosis. It appears that p21WAF1 induction consistently correlates with single or combination treatment. Conclusions The results of our study have shown that FK228 is able to enhance the therapeutic effect of docetaxel against AIPCa. FK228 appears to be a promising second-line option in combination with docetaxel. The p21WAF1 protein level can be used as a surrogate biomarker to predict and monitor the therapeutic response.
Activation of sulfonate ester based matrix metalloproteinase proinhibitors by hydrogen peroxide

This study details the development of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor prodrugs (proMMPi) that are activated in the presence of reactive-oxygen species (ROS). Conventional matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPi) utilize a zinc-binding group (ZBG) that chelates to the catalytic zinc(II) ion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) to inhibit their activity. To create ROS-sensitive prodrugs, sulfonate esters were used as a protecting group for the ZBG to block their metal binding ability. Surprisingly, these sulfonate esters were found to be cleaved by H2O2 only when the ZBG contained an N-oxide donor atom moiety. Sulfonate ester derivatives of full-length MMPi based on these ROS-triggerable systems were synthesized. It was found that proMMPi with sulfonate ester protecting groups showed relatively high rates of cleavage in the presence of H2O2 to release the active MMPi. In vitro MMP inhibition studies confirmed a significant increase in inhibitory activity of proMMPi upon addition of H2O2, demonstrating the use of sulfonate esters to act as cleavable triggers for ROS-activated prodrugs.
Prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 13: a case report

While the clinical features associated with full trisomy 13 have been well characterized, the clinical outcome associated with mosaic trisomy 13 is much less clear. The medical literature reports a broad range of possible clinical outcomes from severe mental retardation and birth defects to normal intelligence. There is no consensus about the typical phenotype in these cases. This makes genetic counselling after prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 13 particularly difficult. Some of the medical literature attempts to correlate the percentage of trisomic cells in peripheral blood leukocytes or skin fibroblasts with clinical outcome. There have not been case reports correlating the percentage of trisomic amniocytes and clinical outcome. We report the prenatal diagnosis of mosaic trisomy 13 by amniocentesis in which no prenatal ultrasound abnormalities were noted, and autopsy was normal with the exception of the presence of a small ventricular septal defect.
A new polymorph of atranorin, a lichen paradepside

In the title compound, methyl 4-(3-formyl-2,4-di­hydroxy-6-methyl-benzoyl­oxy)-2-hydroxy-3,6-di­methyl­benzoate, C19H18O8, there are three intramolecular O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, with lengths 2.5515 (14), 2.5711 (15), and 2.5437 (13) A. The two aromatic rings form a dihedral angle of 60.38 (3)°, differing from that in the previously reported Pbca polymorph, viz. 84 (1)°.
Pancreatic surgery in infants with Beckwith–Wiedemann Syndrome and Hyperinsulinism

Purpose To present our experience in the care of infants with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) who required pancreatectomy for the management of severe Congenital Hyperinsulinism (HI).
Partial cloning of putative G-proteins modulating mechanotransduction in the ciliate stentor.

Abstract Signal transduction systems known to utilize G-proteins in higher eukaryotes undoubtedly evolved prior to the development of metazoa. Pharmacological evidence indicates that the ciliates Paramecium, Stentor, and Tetrahymena all utilize signaling systems similar to those found in mammals. However, there has been relatively little direct evidence for the existence of G-proteins in ciliates. Since highly conserved heterotrimeric G-proteins form the basis of receptor-coupled signal transduction systems in a wide variety of metazoa, it is of interest to know if these important signaling molecules were early to evolve and are present and functionally important in a wide variety of unicellular organisms. We have previously shown that mechanotransduction in Stentor is modulated by opiates in a manner that may involve pertussis toxin-sensitive G-proteins. Here we utilize drugs known to interact with G-proteins to further test for the involvement of these important signaling molecules in Stentor mechanotra...
Noninvasive Quantification of Myocardial Blood Flow in Humans A Direct Comparison of the [13N]Ammonia and the [15O]Water Techniques

Background [13N]Ammonia has been validated in dog studies as a myocardial blood flow tracer. Estimates of myocardial blood flow by [13N]ammonia were highly linearly correlated to those by the microsphere and blood sample techniques. However, estimates of myocardial blood flow with [13N]ammonia in humans have not yet been compared with those by an independent technique. This study therefore tested the hypothesis that the [13N]ammonia positron emission tomographic technique in humans gives estimates of myocardial blood flow comparable to those obtained with the [15O]water technique. Methods and Results A total of 30 pairs of positron emission tomographic flow measurements were performed in 30 healthy volunteers; 15 volunteers were studied at rest and 15 during adenosine-induced hyperemia. Estimates of average and of regional myocardial blood flow by the [13N]ammonia and the [15O]water approaches correlated well (y=0.02+1.02x, r=.99, P<.001, SEE=0.023 for average and y=0.06+1.00x, r=.97, P<.001, SEE=0.025 fo...
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON TYPE V BEKESY TRACINGS.

Jerger and Herer (1961) were the first to report an apparent relationship between functional hearing loss and the Type V Bekesy pattern. Several recent studies have added substantial support to the...
The electronic dynamics of photoexcited aqueous iodide

Abstract Based on a comparison of spectra computed via quantum-mechanical computer simulation and those seen experimentally (Long, Lu, Shi and Eisenthal), the early time electronic dynamics following the photoexcitation of an aqueous iodide ion is examined. The results imply that initial excitation involves a state lying above the principle charge-transfer-to-solvent (CTTS) absorption, but that this state decays to the CTTS state more rapidly than instrumental resolution. Energetics implies that the evolution of excited states of the hydrated electron observed at later times derives from a separate channel. Transient emission experiments can directly test the proposed description.
Sociability and attachment as distinct domains of the interpersonal relationships factor of the BASIS-24

The Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale (BASIS-24) was administered to 1972 patients in a private psychiatric hospital specializing in intensive treatment of several weeks’ duration. The study was designed to investigate the factor structure in a large inpatient population with a high burden of psychiatric illness. While largely replicating previous factor analyses, the study unexpectedly yielded two factors from the items comprising the interpersonal relationships factor, which were interpreted as assessing sociability and attachment. These two new factors showed differential relationships with other measures of interpersonal functioning (Inventory of Interpersonal Problems) and attachment (Relationship Questionnaire), and both factors were sensitive to improvement over the course of intensive inpatient treatment. These results suggest that different treatment interventions might be employed to target these two separable domains of potentially problematic interpersonal functioning.
Comparing the utility of β-glucuronidase and green fluorescent protein for detection of weak promoter activity inArabidopsis thaliana

Two important marker proteins used in plant gene expression studies are green fluorescent protein (GFP) and β-glucuronidase (GUS). We have compared the utility of each in the analysis of a relatively weakArabidopsis thaliana promoter. The background green fluorescence of arabidopsis tissues and organs has been catalogued. This background fluorescence makes it difficult to detect weak promoter activity driving GFP, a problem compounded by the lack of amplification of the GFP signal. In the case of β-glucuronidase, due to diffusion of the enzymatic product, GUS may over-report promoter activity. However, because of the enzymatic amplification of the signal and the low β-glucuronidase activity of untransformed arabidopsis tissues, weak promoter activity is more easily and more accurately detected using GUS.
Experiences creating three implementations of the repast agent modeling toolkit

Many agent-based modeling and simulation researchers and practitioners have called for varying levels of simulation interoperability ranging from shared software architectures to common agent communications languages. These calls have been at least partially answered by several specifications and technologies. In fact, Tanenbaum [1988] has remarked that the “nice thing about standards is that there are so many to choose from.” Tanenbaum goes on to say that “if you do not like any of them, you can just wait for next year's model.” This article does not seek to introduce next year's model. Rather, the goal is to contribute to the larger simulation community the authors' accumulated experiences from developing several implementations of an agent-based simulation toolkit. As such, this article focuses on the implementation of simulation architectures rather than agent communications languages. It is hoped that ongoing architecture standards efforts will benefit from this new knowledge and use it to produce architecture standards with increased robustness.
A hybrid approach for the modal analysis of continuous systems with discrete piecewise-linear constraints

Abstract The analysis of continuous systems with piecewise-linear constraints in their domains have previously been limited to either numerical approaches, or analytical methods that are constrained in the parameter space, boundary conditions, or order of the system. The present analysis develops a robust method for studying continuous systems with arbitrary boundary conditions and discrete piecewise-linear constraints. A superposition method is used to generate homogeneous boundary conditions, and modal analysis is used to find the displacement of the system in each state of the piecewise-linear constraint. In order to develop a mapping across each slope discontinuity in the piecewise-linear force-deflection profile, a variational calculus approach is taken that minimizes the L2 energy norm between the previous and current states. An approach for calculating the finite-time Lyapunov exponents is presented in order to determine chaotic regimes. To illustrate this method, two examples are presented: a pinned–pinned beam with a deadband constraint, and a leaf spring coupled with a connector pin immersed in a viscous fluid. The pinned–pinned beam example illustrates the method for a non-operator based analysis. Results are used to show that the present method does not necessitate the need of a large number of basis functions to adequately map the displacement and velocity of the system across states. In the second example, the leaf spring is modeled as a clamped-free beam. The interaction between the beam and the connector pin is modeled with a preload and a penalty stiffness. Several experiments are conducted in order to validate aspects of the leaf spring model. From the results of the convergence and parameter studies, a high correlation between the finite-time Lyapunov exponents and the contact time per period of the excitation is observed. The parameter studies also indicate that when the system's parameters are changed in order to reduce the magnitude of the impact velocity between the leaf spring and the connector pin, the extent of the regions over which a chaotic response is observed increases.
DNA Vaccines: An Active Immunization Strategy for Prostate Cancer

Immunotherapy is currently being investigated as a treatment for patients with asymptomatic, recurrent prostate cancer manifested only by a rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level. Several different approaches to active immunization against antigens found on cancer cells have been explored. Immunization with DNA overcomes many of the obstacles noted in previous studies. Injection of plasmid DNA encoding a xenogeneic differentiation antigen (prostate-specific membrane antigen [PSMA]) is a potent means to induce antibody and T-cell responses to these otherwise poorly immunogenic self proteins. Use of the xenogeneic DNA (ie, human PSMA DNA injected into mouse) has been shown to be an absolute requirement to overcome immunologic tolerance. We are currently conducting a phase I trial of human and mouse PSMA DNA vaccines in patients with recurrent prostate cancer, based on preclinical experiments described below.
Tactical Reconnaissance: Will It Survive Near-Real-Time Reconnaissance?

This paper discusses potential problems, as perceived by the author, associated with preserving Tactical Reconnaissance as an entity. Today's technology is rapidly approaching the point where the user will have the capability to conduct tactical reconnaissance on a near-real-time basis. When this occurs, it will be desirable to combine the reconnaissance mission with the strike mission, as the sensors involved can be used for both. Historically, reconnaissance has had to fight for its existence during peacetime. A combining of missions could result in less emphasis on reconnaissance, thereby further reducing its role in our defense posture, and stagnation of new sensor development.
Imaging laser irradiated enamel surfaces with polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography

Several studies have shown that lasers can be used to modify the surface morphology and chemical composition of tooth enamel to render it less soluble. Other studies have shown that Polarization Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT) can be used to non-destructively measure the efficacy of fluoride in inhibiting the development of artificial caries lesions. The purpose of this study was to determine if PS-OCT can be used to measure inhibition of enamel demineralization after CO(2) laser irradiation. Polarized light microscopy and microradiography were used to measure lesion severity on histological thin sections for comparison. PS-OCT was able to measure a significant reduction in the integrated reflectivity due to inhibition by the laser even though the laser modification of the enamel surface caused a slight increase in reflectivity. This study shows that the PS-OCT is well-suited for in vivo measurements of caries inhibition after laser treatments.
Spatial memory and explicit knowledge: An effect of instruction on representational momentum

Freyd (1987; Finke & Freyd, 1985) suggested that representational momentum (i.e., forward displacement in memory for the location of a moving target) is impervious to error feedback (i.e., is modular or cognitively impenetrable), but studies supporting this claim might not have allowed sufficient opportunity for learning to occur. In the experiment reported here, participants were (a) naive regarding representational momentum, (b) informed about representational momentum but not instructed to counteract it, or (c) informed about representational momentum and instructed to counteract it. All participants exhibited significant displacement. However, participants informed about representational momentum exhibited less forward displacement than did naive participants due to a greater tendency to respond same to probes behind the true–same position. Possible mechanisms of compensation and the notion that displacement reflects both modular (cognitively impenetrable) and nonmodular (cognitively penetrable) compo...
A Robust Adaptive Classifier for Detector Adaptation in a Video

We propose a novel method for improved object detection in a video. Our approach adapts a generic offline trained detector (OTD) to a specific test video by collecting online samples in an unsupervised manner. Most of the existing adaptation methods focus on collecting confident online samples and do not address how to deal with ambiguous and noisy online samples. We address the importance of collecting online samples which are true representative of the actual objects present in the video and propose a Boosted Multiple Instance Random Fern (B-MIRF) classifier as the adaptive classifier. Multiple Instance Learning (MIL) provides reliability for training with noisy online samples and boosting process enables in obtaining more discriminative random ferns. We apply B-MIRF classifier on the detection responses obtained from OTD, hence our method improves the performance by improving the precision of OTD. We evaluate performance of our method on two challenging public datasets and show better performance than other state of the art methods.
A study of forest biomass estimates from lidar in the northern temperate forests of New England

Abstract Quantification of global carbon storage, carbon flux and disturbance in forested regions is of critical importance to refining our understanding of ecosystem processes, climate modeling and climate change. Remote sensing instruments, such as lidar and radar provide a means of obtaining highly accurate and well resolved biomass estimates over global scales. This has sparked interest in mission concepts such as DESDynI. One of the core objectives of the proposed DESDynI mission was global carbon accounting and monitoring through a combination of lidar and radar measurements. In this article, the relationship between field biomass and lidar metrics is analyzed using data from coordinated field measurements and lidar overflights at the Harvard and Howland Forests in North-Eastern United States to assess the performance of a potential biomass mapping instrument. Results show that the performance of lidar estimates of biomass vary significantly between the two sites even though they belong to the same northern temperate forest ecoregion. An attempt is made to isolate the reasons behind the dissimilarities. While RMS errors as low as 30 tons/ha can be seen, these are limited to biomass ranges of up to 300 tons/ha.
Numerical simulation and analysis of the mean coastal circulation off California

Abstract A two-dimensional numerical model is applied to a coastal ocean wherein alongshore elevation and density gradients, normally calculated by a three-dimensional model, are instead supplied by climatologically averaged data for the California Current System between 25 and 40°N. Surface wind stress is also obtained from climatological data. Both surface and bottom boundary layers are resolved in the model calculations; a second moment turbulence closure submodel supplies vertical diffusivities. Near steady state solutions are possible when surface buoyancy flux is imposed at the surface. Model results are as follows: Southward wind stress produces a broad equatorward current with an embedded coastal jet in accordance with previous studies. Positive wind stress curl reduces the jet current and produces a poleward undercurrent which then surfaces as the curl is increased. The jet currents are reduced and poleward flow increases as bottom steepness increases; to a lesser extent, inclusion of the beta effect has a similar effect. The existence of near bottom, poleward or equatorward flow is explained rather simply in terms of the bottom stress resulting from the alongshore balance of surface wind stress and vertically integrated pressure gradient, the latter involving the alongshore surface elevation and density gradient. A further finding is that the upwelling circulation associated with wind stress is confined to the top 200 to 300 m of the ocean along the California coast.
Temporal changes in human temporomandibular joint size and shape

Measurements approximating the size of the temporomandibu- lar joint were taken on a series of genetically homogeneous populations from early Nubia, which span almost 10,000 years and embody a shift from a pri- marily hunting and gathering adaptation to a completely agricultural lifeway. A generalized trend of reduction of temporomandibular joint size was observed. In addition, a decrease in sexual dimorphism was apparent for all measures of joint size; a change primarily mitigated by reductions in male dimensions. The observed variation in size and form of the temporomandibular joint is most likely the result of the reduction in masticatory muscle robusticity and result- ant changes in craniofacial form which have been documented for the transi- tion from a hunting and gathering to an agricultural subsistence in Nubia.
Fossil evidence for the escalation and origin of marine mutualisms

Mutualism is an interactive, mutually beneficial relationship between two or rarely more unrelated taxa. It is ubiquitous in most environments. In the marine environment it is most likely to occur in shallow marine, oligotrophic regions, the open marine photic zone and oxygen-limited environments. Whereas the eukaryote cell is of some antiquity, other mutualisms may have been acquired during the Phanerozoic. The fossil record provides inferential evidence for the minimum time of origin and occurrence of mutualisms. This suggests that a variety of mutualisms may have occurred during the Palaeozoic with most apparently being terminated by the Permian mass extinction. Tracing back the origin of extant mutualisms suggests that the majority of these began in the Mesozoic or Cenozoic and indicate an increase to the present day. Whether the increase in mutualisms is a product of increased biodiversity or whether mutualisms may have partly driven biodiversity is unclear.
How day of posting affects level of critical discourse in asynchronous discussions and computer‐supported collaborative argumentation

In asynchronous threaded discussions, messages posted near the end of the week provide less time for students to critically examine and respond to ideas presented in the messages than messages posted early in the week. This study examined how the day in which messages are posted (early, midweek and weekend) in computer-supported collaborative argumentation affect the number of responses elicited by arguments and challenges, and how its effects differ across the four types of exchanges (argument–challenge, challenge–counterchallenge, challenge–explain, challenge–evidence) that serve as indicators of critical discourse. This study found that the day of posting had a significant effect on the number of responses elicited per message, with the greatest to smallest effect on argument–challenge, challenge–counterchallenge, challenge–explain and challenge–evidence exchanges respectively. These findings highlight some of the limitations of asynchronous discussions, and suggest alternative ways to implement and design discussion environments to promote higher levels of critical discourse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
A novel immune regulator links malaria and inflammatory bowel disease

![Figure][1] Insight from Brandon Sack (left) and Stefan Kappe (right) Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites and is commonly thought of as a disease resulting from the cyclic infection and destruction of red blood cells. However, a subset of infected individuals will develop “
Lossless compression for large scale cluster logs

The growing computational and storage needs of several scientific applications mandate the deployment of extreme-scale parallel machines, such as IBM's Blue Gene/L which can accommodate as many as 128K processors. One of the biggest challenges these systems face, is to manage generated system logs while deploying in production environments. Large amount of log data is created over extended period of time, across thousands of processors. These logs generated can be voluminous because of the large temporal and spatial dimensions, and containing records which are repeatedly entered to the log archive. Storing and transferring such large amount of log data is a challenging problem. Commonly used generic compression utilities are not optimal for such large amount of data considering a number of performance requirements. In this paper we propose a compression algorithm which preprocesses these logs before trying out any standard compression utilities. The compression ratios and times for the combination shows 28.3% improvement in compression ratio and 43.4% improvement in compression time on average over different generic compression utilities. The test data used is log data produced by 64 racks, 65536 processor Blue Gene/L installation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
Measuring Drained Residual Strengths in the Bromhead Ring Shear

A series of Bromhead ring shear tests were conducted to measure the drained residual strength of Rancho Solano Fat Clay. Tests conducted using dierent test procedures demonstrate the signicant eect that wall friction can have in the Bromhead ring shear device. This problem was addressed by beveling the top loading platen, which led to measurements of drained residual strength that were 21-23% lower than those measured with the unmodied platen. Using the modied platen, similar test results can be achieved independent of the details of the test procedure that is followed, giving greater condence in the measured residual shear strength.
Fluid spaces in canine bone and marrow.

In order to provide a firm basis for the analysis of experiments on the kinetics of ion and solute exchange in bone, the total water space, extracellular space, and vascular (plasma plus erythrocyte) space in the tibial diaphysis in adult dogs were estimated. Tracers were injected intravenously into 40 dogs after ligation of the renal pedicles. Estimates were made of the volumes of distribution of radioactive tracers of varying characteristics (molecular weight, solubility, and charge), by taking samples of blood, plasma, and bone 3 hr after injection. The volumes of distribution (milliliters per milliliter of cortical bone) were: for tritiated water (a total water marker) 0.245 ± 0.003 (mean ± SD); for [14C]sucrose (an extracellular marker) 0.043 ± 0.001; for 111In-labeled transferrin (a plasma marker) 0.008 ± 0.003; and for red blood cells 0.005 ± 0.002. Interstitial fluid space was estimated by subtracting the estimated plasma space from the estimated extracellular space and it was 0.034 ml/ml of bone. Estimates of haversian canal volumes, obtained morphometrically, were 0.015 ml/ml bone and were compatible with the estimates of the vascular space.
The Sensitivity of Simulated Convective Storms to Variations in Prescribed Single-Moment Microphysics Parameters that Describe Particle Distributions, Sizes, and Numbers

The sensitivity of cloud-scale simulations of deep convection to variations in prescribed microphysics parameters is studied, using the single-moment scheme in the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) model. Realistic changes were made to the shape parameters in the gamma distributions of the diameters of precipitating hydrometeors and of cloud droplets, in the number concentration of cloud droplets, and in the mean size of the hail and graupel. Simulations were performed with two initial soundings that are identical except for their temperature. The precipitation rate at the ground is not very sensitive to changes in the value of the shape parameter used for all precipitating hydrometeors (rain, hail, graupel, snow, and aggregates) or to the mean size of the hail and graupel, owing to counteracting effects. For example, with a larger shape parameter value, there is a greater production of precipitation by collection of cloud water, but also a larger rate of evaporation of the liquid precipitation. However, with a larger shape parameter value, the greater production of precipitation by collection and the increased evaporation result in more low-level cooling by the downdraft. Specifying larger hail and graupel results in less low-level cooling by the downdraft. The simulation with the cold initial sounding showed a change in storm propagation velocity when the specified sizes of hail and graupel were increased, but this did not occur when the warm initial sounding was used. With a larger shape parameter for cloud water or with a larger number concentration of cloud droplets, there is less autoconversion and less collection of cloud water and, consequently, much less precipitation at the ground and denser cirrus anvils. While the number concentration of cloud droplets can be forecast in some models with parameterized microphysics, at present the shape parameter for cloud water cannot and must, therefore, be carefully selected.
The bronchodilator response as a predictor of inhaled corticosteroid responsiveness in asthmatic children with normal baseline spirometry

Summary Rationale Although inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are considered first line controller therapy in children with persistent asthma, heterogeneity of the ICS response can be an important clinical problem. The purpose of this study is to determine the value of the bronchodilator response (BDR) in identifying the ICS responder and establish the optimal BDR cut-point that could be particularly useful in the clinic setting when baseline spirometry is normal. Methods Mexican American asthmatic children, 5–18 years, with normal baseline spirometry who required low dose (step 2), or medium dose (step 3) ICS therapy were evaluated by skin prick test for atopy, and pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry. ICS responders were defined by a ≥7.5% improvement in the FEV1 following 4–6 weeks of therapy. The optimal cut-point was determined by Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curves as the best balance between sensitivity and specificity. Results There were 34.8% of the 132 study patients who were ICS responders. ROC curves showed the BDR ≥10% to be an optimal cut-point with sensitivity 46%, specificity 76%, positive predictive value (PPV) 50%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 72%. Atopic females with a BDR ≥10% had a PPV of 73%. Conclusions The composite phenotype of female gender, atopic, and the BDR of ≥10% identified 73% as ICS responders compared to 50% in our overall population with a BDR of ≥10% alone, with minimal false positives. We suggest that the BDR in conjunction with gender and atopic status be considered as potentially useful predictors of the ICS responder, particularly when baseline spirometry is normal. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:1162–1169. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.