cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parameter estimation for gray and nongray targets: theory and data analysis

A new technique is described that can be used to estimate basic parameters such as target size (projected area), surface temperature, and spectral emissivity based on the optical radiation measured by a multiband infrared radiometer. This is of great interest in science and industry where the ability to measure temperature and surface optical characteristics via noncontact methods is vital to the analysis and control of many processes. This new technique is designed to compensate for reflected radiation from other background sources not in the sensor field of view. The technique is based on applying a simple closed form expression for the optical signal measured by the sensor and expanding the unknown emissivity in a series of orthogonal functions. To obtain the parameters of interest nonlinear least-squares estimation techniques are employed. To test the overall procedure data were collected on targets specifically designed to span the range from gray to highly nongray. The optical radiation from these targets was measured in a ground-based space simulation chamber in the presence of known and controlled warm background sources. The targets were instrumented with thermocouples that measured the surface temperature throughout the experiment. Results of the data analysis show that, using a three- or four-band radiometer, it is possible to measure surface temperature to a high degree of accuracy, and that the technique is robust in the presence of noise. Other applications are also explored. These include the simultaneous estimation of the target size (projected area) for point targets at a known distance from the optical sensor, as well as a detailed estimate of the material spectral emissivity using data provided by a spectrometer.
Muscle development in a biphasic animal: the frog.

Knowledge of muscle development in a vertebrate reflects strengths of the particular model system. For example, the origin of mesoderm is very well characterized in Xenopus laevis, where development of somites is less well understood. The major problem in muscle development, presented by frogs, is the complete replacement of larval muscles by adult muscles at thyroid hormone–dependent metamorphosis. All tail muscles die, all leg muscles form de novo, and muscles in the jaw and trunk show both processes. The nature of adult muscle progenitors remains unclear. Comparison of X. laevis development with divergent amphibian patterns, such as direct developers, which lack the larval tadpole, should highlight important steps in adult muscle formation. Developmental Dynamics 236:2444–2453, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Apolipoprotein E affects amyloid formation but not amyloid growth in vitro: Mechanistic implications for ApoE4 enhanced amyloid burden and risk for Alzheimer's disease

The transition from the partially folded soluble Aβ monomer to insoluble Aβ amyloid fibrils is seminal to the formation and growth of amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD). A detailed understanding of the role of AD risk factors in these processes is essential to understanding the physiochemical nature of this conformational rearrangement- The apolipoprotein E ϵ4 allele, a risk factor for AD, affects AD pathology by increasing amyloid burden relative to the much more common ϵ3 allele. In the present study, in vitro models were employed to probe the effect of these proteins on kinetically distinct steps in Aβ fibrillogenesis. Formation of Aβ amyloid was faster in the presence of apo E4 than apoE3, while growth of existing plaques was unaffected by either isoform. Further, experiments with Aβ stereoiso-mers establish that this effect ofapoE3 is mediated through interaction with oligomeric fibrillogenic intermediates rather than through specific contacts with monomeric Aβ. Consistent with the altered p...
Anesthesia and critical care simulators

Anesthesia and critical care simulators are becoming widely available for training, continuing education, and research. Screen-based simulators, such as the Anesthesia Simulator Consultant™, operate entirely on standard Windows™ or Macintosh™ computers and are very inexpensive. Such simulators cover topics in cardiovascular and respiratory physiology, inhalation and intravenous agent pharmacokinetics, and dozens of emergency situations. Mannequin-based simulators are now commercially available and their use will increase as their value for training is validated.
Computer-based bioassay for evaluation of sensory irritation of airborne chemicals and its limit of detection.

We expanded a previously described rule-based computerized method to recognize the sensory irritating effect of airborne chemicals. Using 2-chlorobenzylchloride (CBC) as a sensory irritant, characteristic modifications of the normal breathing pattern of exposed mice were evaluated by measuring the duration of braking (TB) after inspiration and the resulting decrease in breathing frequency. From the measurement of TB, each breath was then classified as normal (N) or sensory irritation (S). Using increasing exposure concentrations, the classification S increased from ≤2% (equivalent to sham-exposure) to 100% within a narrow exposure concentration range. The potency of CBC was then evaluated by calculating the concentration necessary to produce 50% of the breaths classified as S, i.e., S50. This approach is easier to use than obtaining RD50 (decrease in respiratory frequency by 50%) when high exposure concentrations are difficult to achieve. Detection limits were also established for this bioassay and experiments were conducted to obtain a level of response just around these limits, in order to delineate the practicality of using this bioassay at low exposure concentrations. Using this approach, sensory irritation was the only effect induced by CBC at low exposure concentrations. However, bronchoconstriction and pulmonary irritation were superimposed on this effect at higher exposure concentrations.
Role of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Dimers in Cell Migration DESIGN OF INHIBITORY PEPTIDES

Non-proteolytic activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have recently been shown to impact cell migration, but the precise mechanism remains to be understood. We previously demonstrated that the hemopexin (PEX) domain of MMP-9 is a prerequisite for enhanced cell migration. Using a biochemical approach, we now report that dimerization of MMP-9 through the PEX domain appears necessary for MMP-9-enhanced cell migration. Following a series of substitution mutations within the MMP-9 PEX domain, blade IV was shown to be critical for homodimerization, whereas blade I was required for heterodimerization with CD44. Blade I and IV mutants showed diminished enhancement of cell migration compared with wild type MMP-9-transfected cells. Peptides mimicking motifs in the outermost strands of the first and fourth blades of the MMP-9 PEX domain were designed. These peptides efficiently blocked MMP-9 dimer formation and inhibited motility of COS-1 cells overexpressing MMP-9, HT-1080, and MDA-MB-435 cells. Using a shRNA approach, CD44 was found to be a critical molecule in MMP-9-mediated cell migration. Furthermore, an axis involving a MMP-9-CD44-EGFR signaling pathway in cell migration was identified using antibody array and specific receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In conclusion, we dissected the mechanism of pro-MMP-9-enhanced cell migration and developed structure-based inhibitory peptides targeting MMP-9-mediated cell migration.
Comparison of Web and mail surveys for studying secondary consequences associated with substance use: evidence for minimal mode effects.

Abstract Objectives The present study examined the impact of using a Web survey vs. a more traditional mail survey on the reporting of secondary consequences associated with substance use by undergraduate students. Methods During the spring of 2001, a survey questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample of 7000 undergraduate students attending a large Midwestern research university in the United States. Sampled students were randomly assigned to a Web survey mode ( n = 3500) or a mail survey mode ( n = 3500). Results The majority of respondents experienced a secondary consequence of substance use in the past 12 months. Bivariate and multivariate results showed minimal differences between Web and mail survey modes in the reporting of secondary consequences associated with substance use. Conclusions The present study provides evidence that Web surveys can be used as an effective mode for collecting data regarding secondary consequences among undergraduate college students. The present study suggests secondary consequences associated with substance use are highly prevalent among undergraduate students.
Performance of the DFTB method in comparison to DFT and semiempirical methods for geometries and energies of C20–C86 fullerene isomers

Abstract The performance of both non-iterative (NCC) and self-consistent charge (SCC) versions of the density functional tight binding (DFTB) method, as well as AM1 and PM3 methods, has been compared with the B3LYP method, a hybrid density functional theory (DFT) method, for equilibrium geometries and relative energies of various isomers of C 20 –C 86 fullerenes. Both NCC- and SCC-DFTB methods compare very favorably with B3LYP both in geometries and isomer relative energies, while AM1 and PM3 do noticeably worse.
The Interaction Between Pathogens and the Host Coagulation System

There is mounting evidence that the hemostatic system is critical in host responses to bacterial infection. Invasive bacteria have evolved virulence strategies to interact with host hemostatic factors such as plasminogen and fibrinogen for infection. Furthermore, genetic variations in host hemostatic factors also influence host response to bacterial infection.
Dukes and Nobles Above, Scholars Below: Beijing’s Old Booksellers’ District Liulichang 琉璃廠, 1769-1941—and Its Influence on 20th-Century Shanghai’s Book Trade

Books and their production were a key part of the late imperial commodity economy and of the gentry lifestyle that eventually extended into the Republican (1912-1949) era. Liulichang, the capital’s bookselling district, was positioned from the mid-eighteenth century onward as the empire’s premier book emporium. It remained well known to intellectuals and book merchants during late Qing and Republican China as well. In the first three sections of the essay, I show how this important commodity marketplace reflected and influenced late imperial Chinese society on cultural, commercial, and manufacturing levels. Liulichang is seen to have been a cultural center whose essential conservatism can be found in its approach to the commerce and publishing at its core. Both book commerce and publishing are shown to have been enhanced, but not transformed, by the technological options at hand. In the article’s fourth section, I suggest not only how Liulichang’s book dealers had a direct and personal influence on the development of Shanghai’s antiquarian book market, but also that Liulichang served as a cultural prototype for Republican Shanghai’s Wenhuajie (Culture-and-Education Streets, or simply Booksellers’ District). Just as each district functioned as a kind of bellwether for literate, educated consumers of the period in which it was prominent, so too, I argue, Beijing’s booksellers, printers, and publishers paved the way for those who emerged at Shanghai at the beginning of the twentieth century.
An approximate method for calculating the freezing outside spheres and cylinders

Abstract Based on the experimental fact that the effect of a cold surface extends only to a finite distance which bears a constant proportionality to the radius of freezing, an approximate method is developed for the location of the freezing front and the determination of the heat flux at the cold surface. This technique is much simpler than the other numerical and analytical techniques reported previously in the literature and yet gives results comparable to these latter techniques.
Isolation of a mammalian cell mutant resistant to 25-hydroxy cholesterol

Abstract A mutant of the Chinese Hamster Ovary cell line, CHO-K1, has been isolated which is resistant to killing by 25-hydroxy cholesterol in the absence of cholesterol. There is no effect on acetate incorporation into cholesterol by 25-hydroxy cholesterol in the mutant under conditions in which incorporation is inhibited in the parent cell. The mutant also appears to be defective in the regulation of cholesterol synthesis by serum choleserol.
Grouping customers for better allocation of resources to serve correlated demands

Abstract In this paper, we discuss a common decision-making problem arising in the allocation and decentralization of resources under uncertain demand. The total resource requirements for a given service level equals the sum of mean demands plus a safety factor multiplied by the standard deviations of demands. Since the demand means are unaffected by any customer groupings, we attempt to exploit demand correlations for developing customer groups such that the sum of the standard deviations over all groups is minimized. A concave minimization model with binary variables is developed for this purpose and a heuristic partitioning method is proposed to efficiently solve the model. The model is appropriate for both manufacturing and service management with potential applications in salesforce allocation, grouping of machines in job shops, and allocation of plant capacities. Scope and purpose In this paper, it is shown that when demands are correlated, complete aggregation of all customers in a single-service center may require more resources than is necessary to provide a given service level. A model and a solution technique are proposed to optimally aggregate/disaggregate customers into groups such that total resource requirements are minimized. Many potential applications of the proposed technique in centralization/decentralization of resources are discussed.
A Portfolio Diversification Model of Alliances The Triple Alliance and Triple Entente, 1879-1914

The theory of finance demonstrates that diversified investment portfolios produce superior combinations of risk and return, and that investors may choose a portfolio reflecting their preferred mix of risk and return. These techniques may be applied to military alliances. The rate of return and risk of an ally follows a positive linear relationship, as predicted by capital asset pricing theory. Random diversification of allies will, as with investment portfolios, reduce the country-unique components of alliance risk toward that which is inherent in the system as a whole. Some alliances will be more efficient at producing greater return and lower risk. The most efficient alliances will be those in which variations in ally effort move in opposite directions. Development of the demand side of portfolio analysis may predict which alliances are optimal, and therefore most likely to form. These principles are applied to the Triple Entente and Triple Alliance between 1879 and 1914. It is suggested that the Entent...
Deletion of 20p 11.23→pter with normal growth hormone-releasing hormone genes

Using a molecular analysis of the DNA from a patient with a deletion of chromosome 20 [46,XX,del(20)(p 11.23)], we have excluded the growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) gene from the region 20p11.23----pter. The patient had minor facial anomalies. Rieger eye anomaly, a congenital heart defect, severe failure to thrive, and a neurosecretory problem in growth hormone (GH) secretion. Since the GHRH gene was previously mapped to chromosome 20, we used molecular genetic methods to determine whether the growth abnormalities were due to the deletion of this gene. DNAs of the patient and 2 normal control subjects were analyzed by quantitative Southern blotting using a DNA probe for the GHRH gene and 2 reference DNA probes mapping to chromosome 21. The GHRH gene was found to be present in 2 copies in the patient. This indicates that the gene for GHRH maps to the region outside the patient's deletion, in 20p11.23----qter. Furthermore, our results suggest that genes other than GHRH on 20p are important for developmental steps leading to normal neurosecretory function of GH and may also be involved in generating Rieger eye anomaly. Finally, GH deficiency and Rieger eye anomaly should be sought in other patients with deletions of 20p.
A Numerical Investigation on the Mixing Behavior of Microcombustors

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the mixing of methane and air inside a 5mm high and 40 mm long 2-D channel type microcombustor. Two fuel-air injection schemes are studied at different equivalence ratios. Configuration-I injects methane from an axially located port, whereas configuration-II injects methane from two radially located opposing ports. The velocity field and local methane mixture fractions indicate that the configuration-I provides a superior mixing for lean, stoichiometric and rich equivalence ratios. However, configuration-II yields sufficient mixing only at a fuel rich condition. Also, despite geometrical symmetry of the chamber, flow-fields are highly asymmetric at a lean condition in both configurations.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Early Childhood Traumatic Brain Injuries: Effects on Development and Interventions

A significant cause of many disabilities in early childhood can be traumatic brain injuries (TBI). In the United States, approximately five million young children suffer from TBI with about 20% incurring moderate to severe injuries (Rossman, 1994). In infants and toddlers, the main causes of TBI are physical abuse, falls, and automobile accidents. This article describes a variety of possible effects of TBI on early childhood development in the cognitive, language, social‐emotional, motor, and adaptive domains. Then, interventions are suggested which can assist the young survivors and their families. Because of the limited studies available about TBI in early childhood, it also is suggested that more long term, intensive studies be conducted on both the short and long term effects of TBI, and on additional specialized interventions.
HbA2: at the borderline of the KLF

In this issue of Blood, Perseu et al provide new insights into our understanding of the genetic basis of elevated hemoglobin A2.1 This is a major step forward for physicians interpreting hemoglobin electrophoreses of patients with borderline hemoglobin A2, normal or slightly reduced mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and normal mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH).
Disabling hip osteoarthritis: gender, body mass, health and functional status correlates

Objective: To examine gender differences in self-reported pain and function before and after hip replacement surgery and the extent to which overweight, comorbidities and muscular status impact pain and function in adults with disabling end-stage hip joint osteoarthritis. Setting: Orthopedic Hospital Setting on the East Coast of the United States. Study Design: Cross-sectional retrospective chart review. Methods: The desired demographic, physical and psychological attributes of 1040 adults with end-stage hip osteoarthritis hospitalized for hip surgery were recorded and subjected to comparison and correlational analyses. These data included gender, self-reported weight, height, numbers and nature of physical and psychological comorbidities, pain intensity, ambulatory capacity and discharge destination. Sub-group analyses of 808 candidates hospitalized for primary unilateral surgery were also conducted using SPSS 16. Results: There were significant (p < 0.05) associations between gender, pain scores, comorbidity numbers and ambulatory capacity. Specifically, women who exhibited higher comorbid disease rates than men, exhibited higher pre-surgery pain levels and greater functional limitations in walking ability before and after surgery than men with the same condition. In sub-group analyses of men and women with the same mean age, comorbid prevalence rates, and body mass indices, women were found to have significantly higher ideal weights on average than men, and those with higher ideal weights recovered more slowly after surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The presentation of hip joint osteoarthritis is not uniform, and may be impacted differentially by gender. Women with high ideal body weights, may be specifically impacted. Whether genetic or other factors account for gender differences in pain and function among adults with disabling hip osteoarthritis observation needs to be examined.
Prediction of Temperature-Dependent Absorptivities of Metallic Materials at 1.06 µm and 10.6 µm

The optical constants and absorptivity of selected elemental metals and alloys are calculated based on the Drude type model. The absorptivities of the elemental metals at 10.6 µm agreed with experimental data very well, except for transition metals. Absorptivity values for alloys are calculated by assuming that the sum of contributions of N/m ratio for each constituent metal is equal to the N/m ratio of the alloy. Agreement of alloy and element absorptivity calculated values and experimental data is good at 10.6 µm but not at 1.06 µm. Overall the calculation by Drude model gives good estimates of absorptivity at 10.6 µm.
Leukocyte adhesion deficiency: Recurrent childhood skin infections

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by the absent or severely reduced cell surface expression of a subfamily of leukocyte integrin molecular (β 2 leukocyte integrins, CDl 1a/CD 18, CDl 1b/CD18, CD11c/CD18). These molecules are required for the normal processes of leukocyte adherence and chemotaxis. Patients often die during the first years of life of a severe bacterial or fungal infection. We describe a 13-yearold boy with leukocyte adhesion deficiency who had intermittent cutaneous infections that were recalcitrant to treatment. Except for periodontitis, he had no other clinical problems. The diagnosis of leukocyte adhesion deficiency should be considered in patients with recurrent cutaneous infections that do not respond well to therapy, even in the absence of more serious manifestations. Evaluation should include flow cytometry studies to detect surface expression of the β 2 leukocyte integrins on both, resting and activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1994;31:36-9.)
Regional variation in myocardial water content in the edematous pig heart.

Background. The purpose of this study was to examine regional variation in myocardial water content (%MWC) throughout the iatrogenically edematous pig heart. Methods. Edema was induced by hemodilution in domestic swine (n = 26). Hearts were arrested with potassium chloride. The left ventricular free wall (LVFW), interventricular septum (IVS), and right ventricular free wall (RVFW) were biopsied at the apex, base, and equator. Full-thickness biopsy (Full, 0.5–1 g) and subendocardial (Endo, 0.1–0.2 g) biopsies were removed from each region. %MWC was determined for each biopsy. Results. The %MWC for all hearts were as follows: Endo, 81.1 ± 0.1, and Full, 80.6 ± 0.1* (*P < 0.02); apex, 81.1 ± 0.2*, equator, 80.7 ± 0.2, and base, 80.4 ± 0.2 (*P < 0.02); RVFW, 81.4 ± 0.3*, IVS, 80.8 ± 0.2*, and LVFW, 80.3 ± 0.1* (*P < 0.02). For 18 hearts with LV samples with average %MWC ≥ 80%, the percentages were apex, 81.4 ± 0.2*, equator, 81.0 ± 0.2*, and base, 80.6 ± 0.2* (*P < 0.02) (repeated measures, ANOVA). Conclusion. In the iatrogenically edematous porcine heart, a significant water gradient exists, with Endo > Full, apex > equator > base, and RVFW > IVS > LVFW. These results indicate that when examining edema, consistent biopsy results depend on a reproducible sampling site. Water content tends to be highest in thin-walled portions of the heart, suggesting that contractile force may be important in the distribution of edema.
Treatment of viral myocarditis caused by coxsackievirus B

Purpose. The treatment options for viral myocarditis caused by coxsackievirus B are summarized. Summary. Myocarditis is a common cause of dilated cardiomyopathy. The most common causes of infectious myocarditis are viruses. The exact mechanism of coxsackievirus B-induced damage to myocytes is unknown. The likely mechanisms involve immune-mediated and direct viral cytotoxicity. There are several proposed treatment strategies that target specific points in the pathway from myocarditis to cardiomyopathy. Immunosuppressive agents (azathioprine, prednisone, and cyclosporine) for the treatment of myocarditis seem logical, since one of the mechanisms thought to contribute to myocarditis is autoimmune destruction. Another treatment option of viral myocarditis is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). As with conventional immunosuppressive strategies, IVIG suppresses the immune response. In addition, IVIG may replace antibodies, enhance viral clearance, neutralize pathogens, and enhance clearance of inflammatory cytokines that contribute to myocytes destruction. Antiviral agents, such as interferons, pleconaril, and acyclovir, target the causative organism, possibly halting the cascade of myocyte destruction. Natural products of particular interest in the treatment of viral myocarditis are Astragalus membranaceus and Ardisia chinensis. There is no specific therapy for patients with viral myocarditis or dilated cardiomyopathy. In general, patients with dilated cardiomyopathy will benefit from agents commonly used in heart failure, since their symptoms and presentation are similar. Conclusion. Immunosuppressive agents, IVIG, antiviral agents, and natural medicines have been used in the treatment of patients with myocarditis. However, the efficacy of these agents has not been well established, partly because research has not differentiated between infectious and noninfectious myocarditis. This makes it difficult to extrapolate study results to viral myocarditis.
Mixed-effects regression models for studying the natural history of prostate disease.

Although prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia are major health problems in U.S. men, little is known about the early stages of the natural history of prostate disease. A molecular biomarker called prostate specific antigen (PSA), together with a unique longitudinal bank of frozen serum, now allows a historic prospective study of changes in PSA levels for decades prior to the diagnosis of prostate disease. Linear mixed-effects regression models were used to test whether rates of change in PSA were different in men with and without prostate disease. In addition, since the prostate cancer cases developed their tumours at different (and unknown) times during their periods of follow-up, a piece-wise non-linear mixed-effects regression model was used to estimate the time when rapid increases in PSA were first observable beyond the background level of PSA change. These methods have a wide range of applications in biomedical research utilizing repeated measures data such as pharmacokinetic studies, crossover trials, growth and development studies, aging studies, and disease detection.
New modes for subsurface atomic force microscopy through nanomechanical coupling

Non-destructive, nanoscale characterization techniques are needed to understand both synthetic and biological materials. The atomic force microscope uses a force-sensing cantilever with a sharp tip to measure the topography and other properties of surfaces. As the tip is scanned over the surface it experiences attractive and repulsive forces that depend on the chemical and mechanical properties of the sample. Here we show that an atomic force microscope can obtain a range of surface and subsurface information by making use of the nonlinear nanomechanical coupling between the probe and the sample. This technique, which is called mode-synthesizing atomic force microscopy, relies on multi-harmonic forcing of the sample and the probe. A rich spectrum of first- and higher-order couplings is discovered, providing a multitude of new operational modes for force microscopy, and the capabilities of the technique are demonstrated by examining nanofabricated samples and plant cells.
Advances in high-Q piezoelectric resonator materials and devices

In order to compare piezoelectric materials and devices, an intrinsic parameter, the motional time constant /spl tau//sub 1//sup (m/)=(/spl omega//sub m/Q/sub m/)/sup -1/ for a particular mode m is employed. The use of /spl tau//sub 1//sup (m/) follows from the accommodation of acoustic loss in the elastic compliance/stiffness and the establishment of material coefficients that are elements of viscosity matrices. Alternative and fully equivalent definitions of /spl tau//sub 1/ are given based on the RC time constant derived from the equivalent circuit representation of a crystal resonator, acoustic attenuation, logarithmic decrement, and viscosity or damping. For quartz devices, the variation of /spl tau//sub 1/: for any simple thickness mode, for the Y'X shear mode for rotated Y-cuts, and with diameter-thickness ratio for AT-cuts is discussed. Other factors such as mounting loss and loss caused by crystal inhomogeneities (dislocations, defect positions in the resonator, and impurity migration under vibrational stress) are briefly considered with quartz devices as the model. Some new piezoelectric materials/material constants/devices are reviewed and their motional time constants are compared. A physical parameter, composed of acoustic velocity, piezoelectric coupling, and /spl tau//sub 1/ is identified which aids in understanding the maximum frequency limitations of plate resonators. >
Ultra-low leakage MTCMOS circuits with regular-V t long channel stacked footers for deep sub-100 nm technologies

This paper demonstrates that regular-Vt long channel stacked and optimally tapered headers/footers can be used for ultra-low leakage circuits at Iow-VddS with dramatic leakage reduction over earlier schemes. Our proposed schemes take advantage of the fact that the leakage saving of two stacked OFF devices as compared to a single OFF device increase rapidly when the sub-threshold slope reduces (improves).
Thermodynamic parameters for the association of fluorinated benzenesulfonamides with bovine carbonic anhydrase II.

This paper describes a calori- metric study of the association of a series of seven fluorinated benzenesul- fonamide ligands (C6HnF5� nSO2NH2) with bovine carbonic anhydrase II (BCA). Quantitative structure-activity relationships between the free energy, enthalpy, and entropy of binding and pKa and log P of the ligands allowed the evaluation of the thermodynamic parameters in terms of the two inde- pendent effects of fluorination on the ligand: its electrostatic potential and its hydrophobicity. The parameters were partitioned to the three different struc- tural interactions between the ligand and BCA: the Zn II cofactor-sulfon- A bond ( � 65 % of the free energy of binding), the hydrogen bonds be- tween the ligand and BCA ( � 10 %), and the contacts between the phenyl ring of the ligand and BCA ( � 25 %). Calorimetry revealed that all of the li- gands studied bind in a 1:1 stoichiome- try with BCA; this result was con- firmed by 19 F NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography (for complexes with human carbonic anhydrase II).
Reproductive skew and group size: an N-person staying incentive model

Transactional models of social evolution emphasize that dominant breeders may donate parcels of reproduction to subordinates in return for peaceful cooperation. We develop a general transactional model of reproductive partitioning and group size for N-person groups when (1) expected group output is a concave (decelerating) function g[N] of the number N of group members, and (2) the subordinates may receive fractions of total group reproduction (‘‘staying incentives’’) just sufficient to induce them to stay and help the dominant instead of breeding solitarily. We focus especially on ‘‘saturated’’ groups, that is, groups that have grown in size just up to the point where subsequent joining by subordinates is no longer beneficial either to them (in parentoffspring groups) or to the dominant (in symmetric-relatedness groups). Decreased expected output for solitary breeding increases the saturated group size and decreases the staying incentives. Increased relatedness decreases both the saturated group size and the staying incentives. However, in saturated groups with symmetric relatedness, an individual subordinate’s staying incentive converges to 1 g[N* 1]/g[N*]) regardless of relatedness, where N* is the size of a saturated group, provided that the g[N] function near the saturated group size N* is approximately linear. Thus, staying incentives can be insensitive to relatedness in saturated groups, although the dominant’s total fraction of reproduction (total skew) will be more sensitive. The predicted ordering for saturated group size is: Parent-full sibling offspring non-relatives symmetrically related relatives. Strikingly, stable groups of non-relatives can form for concave g[N] functions in our model but not in previous models of group size lacking skew manipulation by the dominant. Finally, symmetrical relatedness groups should tend to break up by threatened ejections of subordinates by dominants, whereas parent-offspring groups should tend to breakup via unforced departures by subordinates. Key words: cooperative breeding, dominance, ecological constraints, group size, relatedness, skew, eusociality. [Behav Ecol 11:640–647 (2000)]
The Missing Links of Fish Husbandry

(1959). The Missing Links of Fish Husbandry. The Progressive Fish-Culturist: Vol. 21, No. 2, pp. 51-54.
Noise analysis of correlated double sampling SC integrators with a hold capacitor

Noise performance of the correlated double sampling switched-capacitor integrators incorporating a supplementary hold capacitor is analyzed. These types of integrators rely on an extra capacitor to attenuate the amplifier low-frequency noise. Approximate expressions for the input-referred noise of the integrators are derived. It is shown that a large parasitic capacitance at the amplifier input may seriously degrade the low-frequency noise performance of such structures.
Cost-Effectiveness of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Elderly Patients with Multiple Myeloma using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare Database

Abstract In the past decade, the number of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplants (Auto HSCT) for older patients with multiple myeloma (MM) has increased dramatically, as has the cost of transplantation. The cost-effectiveness of this modality in patients over age 65 is unclear. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare database to create a propensity-score matched sample of patients over age 65 between 2000 and 2007, we compared the survival and cost for those who received Auto HSCT to those who did not undergo transplantation but survived at least 6 months after diagnosis, and we calculated an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Two hundred seventy patients underwent transplantation. Median overall survival from diagnosis in those who underwent transplantation was significantly longer than in patients who did not (58 months versus 37 months, P
The combination of triiodothyronine (T3) and sertraline is not superior to sertraline monotherapy in the treatment of major depressive disorder

Objective To determine whether the combination of triiodothyronine (T3) plus sertraline at treatment initiation confers greater antidepressant efficacy than sertraline plus placebo in patients with major depressive disorder.
Latent learning in deep neural nets

Psychologists define latent learning as learning that occurs without task-specific reinforcement and is not demonstrated until needed. Since this knowledge is acquired while mastering some other task(s), it is a form of transfer learning. We utilize latent learning to enable a deep neural net to distinguish among a set of handwritten numerals. The accuracies obtained are compared to those achievable with a simplistic ‘group-mean’ classification technique, which is explained later in this paper. The deep neural net architecture used was a Le-Net 5 [3] convolutional neural net with only minor differences in the output layer.
Potential application of training based computation to intrusion detection

Without detection of a network intrusion, a system is not capable of properly defending itself. Therefore, the first step in preserving system integrity is to detect whether or not the system is under attack. We initiated a research project that utilizes training based computation for network intrusion detection. The goal of this project is to defend the system from unknown attacks. Packet analysis approaches are effective at detecting known attacks, but fail at unknown attack detection. In order to protect the system from unknown attacks, we need to develop a classifier system which is independent of the signatures found in network packets. One of the promising ways to perform this classification is to profile kernel level activities. We apply a probabilistically optimal classifier ensemble method to monitor kernel activity, and ultimately to predict whether or not the system is under attack.
Prevention of cultured rat stellate cell transformation and endothelin-B receptor upregulation by retinoic acid

Physiologically, perisinusoidal hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are quiescent and store retinoids. During liver injury and in cell culture, HSC transform into proliferating myofibroblast-like cells that express α-smooth muscle actin (α-sma) and produce excessive amounts of extracellular matrix. During transformation (also known as activation), HSC are depleted of the retinoid stores, and their expression of the endothelin-1 (ET-1) system is increased. ET-1 causes contraction of transformed HSC and is implicated in their proliferation and fibrogenic activity. In order to understand the association between retinoids, ET-1 and the activation of HSC, we investigated the effect of 13-cis-retinoic acid on the transformation of cultured HSC and the expression of ET-1 system. HSC derived from normal rat liver were maintained for 10–12 days in a medium supplemented with 5% serum and containing 2.5 μM retinoic acid without or with 50 nM ET-1 (ETA+ETB agonist) or sarafotoxin S6c (ETB agonist). In another set of experiments, cells treated for 10–12 days with vehicle (ethanol) or retinoic acid were challenged with ET-1 or sarafotoxin S6c, and various determinations were made at 24 h. Retinoic acid inhibited transformation and proliferation of HSC as assessed by morphological characteristics, expression of α-sma, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and cell count. Retinoic acid also prevented upregulation of ETB receptors without affecting ET-1 or ETA expression. Total protein synthesis ([3H]leucine incorporation), collagen α types I mRNA expression and collagen synthesis ([3H]proline incorporation) were lower in retinoic acid-treated cells. Although ET-1-treated cells were morphologically similar to the control cells, their expression of α-smooth muscle actin was significantly inhibited. The presence of retinoic acid in the medium during treatment with ET-1 caused further reduction in the expression of α-smooth muscle actin. ET-1 and sarafotoxin S6c stimulated total protein synthesis in vehicle- and retinoic acid-treated cells, but collagen synthesis only in the latter. These results showing prevention of HSC activation and negative regulation of ETB receptor expression in them by retinoic acid may have important pathophysiologic implications. British Journal of Pharmacology (2003) 139, 765–774. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705303
Does iron have a role in breast cancer

Oestrogen and family history are two of the most important risk factors for breast cancer. However, these risk factors cannot explain the differences in the incidence and recurrence of breast cancer between premenopausal and postmenopausal women. In this paper I propose that, in premenopausal women, an iron deficiency caused by menstruation stabilises hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha, which increases the formation of vascular endothelial growth factor. This mechanism results in premenopausal women being more susceptible to angiogenesis and, consequently, leads to a high recurrence of breast cancer. Conversely, increased concentrations of iron in postmenopausal women, as a result of menstrual cessation, contribute to a high incidence of breast cancer via oxidative-stress pathways. Although the focus of this Personal View is on iron, this by no means negates the roles of other known risk factors in breast-cancer development. Characterisation of the role of iron in breast cancer could potentially benefit patients by decreasing recurrence and incidence and increasing overall survival.
Firm Performance Following Auditor Changes For Audit Fee Savings

This study examines stock and earnings performance subsequent to auditor changes by firms specifically for audit fees savings without any other apparent regulatory or disclosure issues. Results show that there is mild evidence of positive stock return and earnings performance after changing auditors. There is also no significant difference in company performance among different types of auditor changes when looking at auditor changes among and between Big 4 and non-Big 4 auditors. Finally, we find that the positive firm performance is mainly among auditor changes made before 2003.
Interleukin-8 concentrations are elevated in peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis*

Objective To investigate the presence of interleukin-8 (IL-8), a macrophage-derived angiogenic factor, in peritoneal fluid (PF) of women with and without endometriosis. Design Case-control study. Setting University hospital. Patients Eighteen women with laparoscopic findings of mild to severe endometriosis, and nine women with no visual evidence of pelvic pathology. Main Outcome Measures Peritoneal fluid IL-8 levels were determined using an ELISA. Interleukin-8 concentrations were compared among women with and without endometriosis. Correlation between PF IL-8 concentration and endometriosis stage was investigated. Results Interleukin-8 was detectable in the PF of a majority of women (67%). Interleukin-8 concentrations were higher in the PF of women with endometriosis than in matched normal controls. A significant correlation between PF IL-8 concentration and endometriosis stage was noted. Conclusions We hypothesize that IL-8 is an important angiogenic factor that contributes to the pathogenesis of endometriosis by promoting the neovascularization of ectopic endometrial implants.
Latino Youth and Obesity: Communication/Media Influence on Marketing

Increasing childhood obesity rates have led many public health researchers, child health advocates, and policy makers to carefully examine the strategies food and beverage companies use to target children (Larson & Story, 2008; Nestle, 2006).
The need for a standardized system for evaluating results of total hip surgery.

A nonunion is a reconstructive challenge that may have a devastating effect on a patient's quality of life. To develop an individualized treatment plan, surgeons must carefully assess several factors related to the nonunion, including the involved bone, the existing implants, the presence of infection, the soft-tissue envelope, and the function of the involved extremity, as well as the status of the patient. Essential components of an individualized treatment plan for a patient with a nonunion include management of infection (if present); optimization of the systemic and local biologic environment via management of nutritional and metabolic deficiencies, systemic disease, tobacco use, and medications that interfere with bone healing as well as via supplemental procedures, such as use of biologics or bone grafting; and achievement of mechanical stability via internal or external fixation that allows for early functional active range of motion and weight bearing. The goal in the management of nonunion is to maximize the likelihood of healing in the most expedient manner without further complications.
Perspective on the use of gas Adsorption for Particle-Shape Control in Supported Metal Catalysis

This paper explores the possibility of using gas adsorption for particle-shape control in supported metal catalysis. Calculations are done to identify the kinds of shape changes which are possible due to treatment in an appropriate adgas. Experiments are done to try to verify the concepts. The results show that gas adsorption can be used for particle shape control in supported metal catalysis.
Abstract C148: LNA (locked nucleic acid)‐based RNA antagonists mediate target mRNA silencing without transfection by simple addition to cell culture media

Background: Since oligonucleotides do not penetrate cells well, most RNA‐based therapies, such as antisense molecules and siRNAs use transfection conditions in tissue culture and delivery technologies in animals to facilitate entry of oligonucleotides into target cells. However, such vehicles are known to substantially alter cellular function and thereby significantly confound analyses. We have been developing LNA‐based RNA antisense molecules to key cancer targets including survivin, HIF‐1α, androgen receptor, GLI2, β‐catenin, HER3, p110 alpha, and HSP27. LNA‐based oligonucleotides were choosen since these molecules are highly stabile in plasma, have extraordinary high affinity to mRNA, and potently silence mRNA in cells under transfection conditions (IC50 in the high picomolar ‐ low nanomolar range). We now report that LNA based RNA antagonist, when used in the high nanomolar ‐ low micromolar range readily down modulate mRNA and protein of interests in multiple cell lines without any delivery means. Material and Methods: In vitro, the ability of the antagonists to down modulate mRNA and cell growth was evaluated by qRT‐PCR and MTS respectively. Cellular localization of the antagonists was evaluated by examining a FAM‐labeled HER3 antagonist EZN‐3920 under fluorescent microscope. In vivo, HER3 mRNA down‐modulation and protein levels in tumors, which were grown on the flank of nude mice, were evaluated after intravenous administration of the antagonists. Results: The down‐modulation of mRNA in tissue culture‐treated cells was quick, robust, long lasting, and specific followed by potent protein inhibition. Importantly, we show that mechanisms underlying the down‐modulation correlated with nuclear localization of the LNA‐ASO, suggesting that RNas H was the primary mechanism involved in target inhibition. Using this simple and effective approach, we were able to demonstrate that HER3, GLI2, and β‐catenin were likely crucial growth and survival factors for certain cancer cells. Conclusions: LNA‐based RNA antagonists down‐modulate target mRNA and protein in the absence of any agent to facilitate cell penetration. Such antagonists represent an attractive option for rapid, simple, and specific determination of gene function, target validation, and identification of drug‐sensitive tumors for further in vivo evaluation. Beyond this, these results helps validate the use of intravenously administered LNA oligonucleotides simply prepared in saline, as is being done in on‐going clinical trials with LNA‐based RNA antagonists to HIF‐1α and survivin. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):C148.