cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal measurement allocation for parametric model identification of electrical networks

In this paper we develop optimal sensor siting methods along the edges of a large network of electrical oscillators to identify a parametric model for the network using dynamic measurements of electrical signals corrupted with Gaussian noise. We pose the identification problem as estimation of four essential parameters for each edge in the network, namely the real and imaginary components of the edge-weight, or equivalently, the resistance and reactance of the tie-line connecting any two oscillators, and the inertias of the oscillators connected by this edge. We then formulate the Cramer-Rao bounds for the estimates of these four unknown parameters using three fundamental outputs - namely, the magnitude, the phase angle and the frequency of the voltage phasor along each edge, and show that the bounds are functions of the sensor locations on the edges as well as of the contribution of each variable in the combined output. We finally state the condition for finding the optimal sensor location and the optimal signal combination to achieve the tightest Cramer-Rao bound. The problem is first addressed for open-loop networks and, thereafter, for networks where outputs measured at desired locations on the edges are fed back to the nodes to improve transient performance. We show that unlike the first case where the open-loop configuration allows us to optimize the bounds in a distributed fashion for each individual edge, for the latter situation the problem no longer has a decoupled structure under the influence of feedback, and must be carried out in a centralized fashion.
A Computer-Oriented Factoring Algorithm for NOR Logic Design

Because transistor NOR gates allow only a liitmed number of inputs, NOR equations must be factored before they can be implemented. An easily programmed algorithm is developed which rapidly generates a subset of factors, selects optimum factors, and indicates a realization for the factored equation based on the relation A ? B ? C ? D = [(A ? B) ?] ? C ? D. A method for preventing excessive fan-out is also presented.
The murmur of old broken heartstrings

Although it has long been hypothesized that gene expression might become more variable or noisy during aging, direct evidence has been scarce so far. A new study reports detection, by PCR analysis of individual cells, of increased cell-to-cell variability in gene expression in aging mouse heart; moreover, a similar variability can be generated in cultured cells using oxidative stress (Bahar et al., 2006).
Simultaneous quantification of GABAergic 3α,5α/3α,5β neuroactive steroids in human and rat serum

The 3alpha,5alpha- and 3alpha,5beta-reduced derivatives of progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone enhance GABAergic neurotransmission and produce inhibitory neurobehavioral and anti-inflammatory effects. Despite substantial information on the progesterone derivative (3alpha,5alpha)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP, allopregnanolone), the physiological significance of the other endogenous GABAergic neuroactive steroids has remained elusive. Here, we describe the validation of a method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to simultaneously identify serum levels of the eight 3alpha,5alpha- and 3alpha,5beta-reduced derivatives of progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone. The method shows specificity, sensitivity and enhanced throughput compared to other methods already available for neuroactive steroid quantification. Administration of pregnenolone to rats and progesterone to women produced selective effects on the 3alpha,5alpha- and 3alpha,5beta-reduced neuroactive steroids, indicating differential regulation of their biosynthetic pathways. Pregnenolone administration increased serum levels of 3alpha,5alpha-THP (+1488%, p<0.001), (3alpha,5alpha)-3,21-dihydroxypregnan-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THDOC, +205%, p<0.01), (3alpha,5alpha)-3-hydroxyandrostan-17-one (3alpha,5alpha-A, +216%, p<0.001), (3alpha,5alpha,17beta)-androstane-3,17-diol (3alpha,5alpha-A-diol, +190%, p<0.01). (3alpha,5beta)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one (3alpha,5beta-THP) and (3alpha,5beta)-3-hydroxyandrostan-17-one (3alpha,5beta-A) were not altered, while (3alpha,5beta)-3,21-dihydroxypregnan-20-one (3alpha,5beta-THDOC) and (3alpha,5beta,17beta)-androstane-3,17-diol (3alpha,5beta-A-diol) were increased from undetectable levels to 271+/-100 and 2.4+/-0.9 pg+/-SEM, respectively (5/8 rats). Progesterone administration increased serum levels of 3alpha,5alpha-THP (+1806%, p<0.0001), 3alpha,5beta-THP (+575%, p<0.001), 3alpha,5alpha-THDOC (+309%, p<0.001). 3alpha,5beta-THDOC levels were increased by 307%, although this increase was not significant because this steroid was detected only in 3/16 control subjects. Levels of 3alpha,5alpha-A, 3alpha,5beta-A and pregnenolone were not altered. This method can be used to investigate the physiological and pathological role of neuroactive steroids and to develop biomarkers and new therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Structure, variability, and development.

Abstract Seven studies (N = 1559) were conducted in exploration of the relation of age and stimulus structure to several propositions about human cognitive uncertainty ( Munsinger and Kessen, 1964; Munsinger and Kessen, 1966a ). Children and adults responded to figures differing in variability (information) and in symmetry (redundancy) by estimating variability, by categorizing the stimulus materials, and by the expression of preference. In general, (1) estimation and categorization are more accurate with increasing age, (2) practice in estimation and categorization is more useful for older children than for younger children, (3) older children and adults estimate low variability figures more accurately than high variability figures, (4) practice in estimation and categorization with asymmetrical figures transfers well to asymmetrical figures but not to symmetrical figures, (5) the relation between accuracy of categorization and variability of stimuli is a U-shaped function while the relation between accuracy of estimation and variability of stimuli is a decreasing linear function, (6) young children are insensitive to symmetrical redundancy of stimuli, and (7) human response to symmetrical redundancy is not a simple function of information reduction.
Using Short Stories to Address Eating Disturbances in Groups.

Short stories can be an effective group-level intervention for addressing disordered eating attitudes and behaviors. This technique may be used in eating-disorderthemed groups or in any group in which members present with eating problems. The authors provide specific guidelines for the use of short stories in group work. An example is provided to demonstrate how to choose an effective story, how and when to present the story to the group, and how to process the selected story in a way that elicits therapeutic benefits for group members. A list of selected stories and sample process questions are included.
Inhibition of the righting reflex in the common bullfrog (Rana catesbiana) employing an operant-avoidance procedure

Three common bullfrogs of the Rana catesbiana strain were conditioned, employing an operant-avoidance procedure, to inhibit the high-priority, biologically adaptive righting reflex. To avoid an electric shock of.6,.8, or 1.0 mA, bullfrogs, when flipped, remained passively on their backs rather than exhibiting the normal short-latency righting response. The data are discussed in the context of the species-specific aspects of avoidance behavior.
Miniemulsion and conventional emulsion copolymerization of styrene and butadiene: Effect of process on gel content

The properties of styrene/butadiene copolymers obtained by conventional emulsion and miniemulsion polymerizations were studied. Thin layer chromatography with flame ionization detection was used to determine the gel fraction of the copolymer in the latex particles as a function of conversion. It was found that the gel formation began at a higher conversion in the miniemulsion polymerization when compared with that in the conventional process. Also, a lower glass transition temperature was noted at the lowest conversion sampled (∼25%), implying a higher initial butadiene monomer concentration within the nucleated miniemulsion monomer droplets when compared with particles formed conventionally. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 102: 4616–4622, 2006
The role of dichloroacetate in the hepatocarcinogenicity of trichloroethylene

Abstract The induction of hepatic tumors in B6C3F1 mice treated with trichloroethylene (TRI) has been attributed to its metabolism to trichloroacetate (TCA). Trichloroacetate is an effective peroxisome proliferator in mice at blood concentrations that are readily achieved with carcinogenic doses of TRI. Recent data has demonstrated that both TCA and diehloroacetate (DCA) are capable of inducing liver tumors in B6C3F1 mice. Although long recognized as a metabolite of TRI, little attention has focussed on the role DCA might play in the hepatocarcinogenic effects of TRI. There are significant differences in the effects of DCA and TCA on the liver of B6C3F1 mice. Trichloroacetate treatment induces peroxisome proliferation, increases lipid deposition, and results in a marked accumulation of lipofuscin in the liver with long-term exposures. Dichloroacetate induces a markedly enlarged liver associated with a cytomegaly and large accumulations of glycogen. The cytomegaly is associated with the development of focal areas of recurrent liver necrosis which in turn lead to high levels of cell proliferation in the area surrounding these lesions. Induction of peroxisomes with DCA is transitory and the accumulation of lipofuscin is much less evident than with TCA treatment. Studies of TRI metabolism demonstrate that blood levels of DCA produced are sufficient to account for the hepatocarcinogenic effects of TRI. The rather low concentrations of DCA found in the urine of mice treated with TRI relative to TCA concentrations are due to the much more rapid and complete metabolism of DCA. These data do not support the conclusion that the hepatocareinogenic effects of TRI are simply related to peroxisome proliferation.
Cornell Caltech Atacama Telescope primary mirror surface sensing and controllability

To meet the 10 µm RMS half wavefront error requirement for the 25 m diameter Cornell Caltech Atacama Telescope (CCAT), active control of the approximately 200 primary mirror panels is required. The CCAT baseline design includes carbon fiber aluminum honeycomb sandwich mirror panels. Distortions of the panels due to thermal gradients, gravity and the mounting scheme need to be taken into consideration in the control system design. We have modeled the primary mirror surface as both flat and curved surfaces and have investigated mirror controllability with a variety of sensor types and positions. To study different mirror segmentation schemes and find acceptable sensor configurations, we have created a software package that supports multiple segment shapes and reconfigurable panel sizing and orientation. It includes extensible sensor types and flexible positioning. Inclusion of panel and truss deformations allows modeling the effects of thermal and gravity distortions on mirror controllability. Flat mirrors and curved mirrors with the correct prescription give similar results for controlled modes, but show significant differences in the unsensed flat mirror modes. Both flat and curved mirror models show that sensing schemes that work well with rigid, thermally stable panels will not control a mirror with deformable panels. Sensors external to the mirror surface such as absolute distance measurement systems or Shack-Hartmann type sensors are required to deal with panel deformations. Using a combination of segment based sensors and external sensors we have created a promising prototype control system for the CCAT telescope.
Fe(II)-induced decomposition of epidioxides. A chemical model for prostaglandin E, prostacyclin and thromboxane biosynthesis.

A chemical model for biosynthesis of PGE, PGX and the thromboxanes from the prostaglandin endoperoxides is presented which is based on known reactions of other endoperoxides with the Fe(II)−Fe(III) redox system in vitro.
Indeterminate-length quantum coding

The quantum analogues of classical variable-length codes are indeterminate-length quantum codes, in which code words may exist in superpositions of different lengths. This paper explores some of their properties. The length observable for such codes is governed by a quantum version of the Kraft--McMillan inequality. Indeterminate-length quantum codes also provide an alternate approach to quantum data compression.
A bacterial artificial chromosome library for 'Jefferson' hazelnut and identification of clones associated with eastern filbert blight resistance and pollen-stigma incompatibility.

European hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is the only economically important nut crop in the family Betulaceae. Because of its small genome size (~385 Mb / 1C), relatively short life cycle, availability of a dense linkage map, and amenability to transformation by Agrobacterium, the European hazelnut could serve as a model plant for the Betulaceae. Here we report the construction of a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library for ‘Jefferson’ hazelnut using the cloning enzyme MboI and the vector pECBAC1 (BamHI site). The library consists of 39 936 clones arrayed in 104 384-well microtitre plates with a mean insert size of 117 kb. The genomic coverage of the library is estimated to be about 12 genome equivalents. This library provides a valuable resource for the map-based cloning of two important genes, the resistance gene from ‘Gasaway’ that confers resistance to eastern filbert blight caused by the fungus Anisogramma anomala (Peck) E. Muller and the S locus that controls pollen–stigma incompatibility. Fi...
Use of pseudosubstrate affinity to measure active protein kinase A.

Abstract Traditional cAMP-dependent protein kinase (also known as protein kinase A [PKA]) assays, which are based on substrate phosphorylation, often have high background activity from other kinases, thereby limiting sensitivity and making it difficult to detect low levels of active PKA in cell lysates. Therefore, a better technique that measures active PKA in crude cell lysates undoubtedly is necessary. We developed an efficient and sensitive assay to compare active PKA levels based on binding of the active PKA catalytic subunit to its pseudosubstrate domain inhibitor (PKI) fused with glutathione S-transferase (GST–PKI). This pseudosubstrate affinity assay can detect variations in the active PKA levels in the presence of common inducers of PKA activity such as forskolin and prostaglandins. It has resolution to detect a concentration-dependent curve of active PKA in a linear range, and it also has sensitivity to detect up to 2.5 ng of active enzyme. An observed change in the binding affinity between PKA and PKI in the presence of the PKA inhibitor N-[2-(p-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide (H89) shows that this assay can be successfully used to measure how active PKA is affected by specific inhibitors. We conclude that this method is a simple, inexpensive, and nonhazardous method to compare active PKA levels with high sensitivity and specificity with negligible background.
From the Field and Into the Classroom: Information Architecture Assessment and Website Usability Tests

Although it is difficult these days to find a company that does not have a website, you do not have to look very far for to find a website with significant design and architecture flaws. Getting a ...
A new steroid from safflower

Abstract A previously unreported steroid glycoside has been isolated from safflower meal. Spectral analysis of the steroid by MS, NMR, UV and IR reveals it to be a new structure of the form 15α,20β-dihydroxy-Δ 4 -pregnen-3-one.
A multicenter study of outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus. II. Causes of death

Causes of death were examined for 1,103 systemic lupus erythematosus patients who were followed from 1965 to 1978 at 9 centers that participated in the Lupus Survival Study Group. A total of 222 patients (20%) died. Lupus-related organ system involvement (mainly active nephritis) and infection were the most frequent primary causes of death. Causes of death were similar throughout the followup period. Hemodialysis had little impact on the length of survival for patients with nephritis. Active central nervous system disease and myocardial infarction were infrequent causes of death. There were no deaths from malignancy.
A Data Processing Unit (DPU) for a Satellite-Borne Charge Composition Experiment

A data processing unit (DPU) for use with a charge composition experiment to be flown aboard the VIKING auroral research satellite is described. The function of this experiment is to measure the mass, charge state, energy, and pitch-angle distribution of ions in the earth's high-altitude magnetosphere in the energy range from 50 keV/q to 300 keV/q. In order to be compatible with the spacecraft telemetry limitations, raw sensor data are processed in the DPU using on-board composition analysis and the scalar compression. The design of this DPU is such that it can be readily adapted to a variety of space composition experiments. Special attention was given to the effect of the radiation environment on orbit since a microprocessor and a relatively large number of random access memories (RAMs) comprise a considerable portion of the DPU.
Evaluating spatial patterns of drought-induced tree mortality in a coastal California pine forest

Abstract In a coastal, fog-influenced forest on Santa Cruz Island in southern California, we observed mortality of Bishop pine ( Pinus muricata D.Don) trees following a brief (2 year), yet intense, drought. While anecdotal evidence indicates that drought-induced Bishop pine mortality has occurred in the past in the stand we studied, this is the first attempt to capture the spatial distribution of mortality, and begin to understand the environmental drivers underlying these events. We used high spatial resolution remote sensing data to quantify the spatial extent of tree mortality using a 1 m true color aerial photograph and a 1 m LiDAR digital elevation model. We found the highest density of dead trees in the drier, more inland margins of the forest stand. We used the Random Forest decision tree algorithm to test which environmental variables (e.g., summertime cloud frequency, solar insolation, and geomorphic attributes) would best separate live and dead tree populations. We also included tree height as a variable in our analysis, which we used as a proxy for overall tree size and potential rooting distribution. Based on the Random Forest analysis, we generated a map of the probability of survival. We found tree survivorship after drought was best explained by the frequency of summertime clouds, elevation, and tree height. Specifically, survivorship was greatest for larger trees (∼8–10 m tall) in more foggy parts of the stand located at moderate elevation. We found that probability of survival was lowest at the inland extent of the stand where trees occur at the upper limit of their elevation range (∼400 m). The coexistence of these main factors with other landscape variables help identify areas of suitable habitat for Bishop pines across the stand, and extend our understanding of this species’ distribution.
Effects of phospholipase A2 treatment of human erythrocyte membranes on the rates of spectrin-actin dissociation.

Abstract This work examines the extent to which alterations in the composition of the phospholipid bilayer of the erythrocyte membrane influences the stability of the association of the ‘cytoskeletal network’ to the rest of the membrane. Rates of spectrin-actin dissociation at low ionic strength were used as a measure of the stability, and composition of the phospholipid bilayer was altered by the action of the enzyme phospholipase A 2 . Hydrolysis of all the phosphatidylcholine of the outer leaflet of the bilayer had no effect on dissociation rates, whether or not the hydrolysis products were extracted with albumin. Hydrolysis of inner leaflet phospholipids increased the rates by up to 2-fold if the hydrolysis products were not extracted; for ⩽50% hydrolysis, the rates were unaffected if the hydrolysis products were extracted. The moderate magnitudes of the increases in dissociation rates indicate that interactions between the ‘cytoskeletal network’ and the phospholipid bilayer are not a decisive factor in maintaining the stability of the membrane, at least under low ionic strength conditions.
Designing with constraints parametric BIM

While usually associated with the back-end of the design process (implementation), building information modeling (BIM) could also redefine the way design ideas are generated by bridging formal creativity with design and technological innovation. This is achieved through a close integration of generative tools with parametric capabilities and intelligent database-enriched digital objects.
Sequestration of doxorubicin in vesicles in a multidrug-resistant cell line (LZ-100).

Abstract A multidrug-resistant Chinese hamster cell line, LZ-8, was subcultured in increasing levels of doxorubicin (DOX) until capable of growth in 100 μg/mL DOX. This new derivative, designated LZ-100, is the most DOX-resistant line in the LZ series, based on a comparison of K i −1 values from cell survival studies. This increased level of drug resistance in LZ-100 cells did not result from (i) higher levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in the plasma membrane compared with LZ-8 cells, since this protein constitutes approximately 20% of the total plasma membrane protein in both cell lines, or (ii) more efficient drug pumping by the same amount of P-gp, since efflux of rhodamine 123 and DOX was comparable in the two cell lines. However, an altered drug distribution was observed in LZ-100 cells compared with wild-type V79 cells; in LZ-100 cells DOX was largely excluded from the nucleus and was sequestered in vesicles in the cytoplasm. The number of vesicles per cell seen after DOX exposure corresponded with the level of drug resistance achieved by the LZ cell lines studied. DOX concentration-response experiments revealed that vesicle formation exhibited a biphasic relationship, with an initial rapid increase followed by a plateau where no further increase was observed. Time-course studies in LZ-100 cells revealed that the maximum number of DOX-containing vesicles per cell occurred 3–4 hr following initiation of DOX treatment. Radiation exposure (10 Gy) immediately preceding DOX treatment decreased the number of vesicles formed in LZ-100 cells by more than one-half and altered the subcellular distribution of DOX from an almost exclusively cytoplasmic to a homogeneous nuclear/cytoplasmic distribution. This redistribution was not a result of radiation inhibition of P-gp efflux. The inhibitory effect of radiation on vesicle formation increased with increasing radiation dose up to 10 Gy. Drug-containing vesicles were also observed in LZ-100 cells following exposure to mitoxantrone or daunorubicin (to which LZ-100 cells are also resistant), but fewer vesicles were observed than with DOX. These studies demonstrate that the drug sequestration phenomenon (i) occurs in cells exhibiting widely different levels of drug resistance, (ii) correlates with the level of drug resistance in LZ cell lines, (iii) occurs rapidly following exposure to DOX, mitoxantrone, or daunorubicin, and (iv) can be inhibited by irradiation. Further study of the drug sequestration phenomenon in LZ-100 cells, and its less DOX-resistant precursors LZ-3 and LZ-8, should provide additional insight into this mechanism and its contribution to overall drug resistance.
REPRODUCTIVE ABILITY AMONG SIALOADENECTOMIZED RATS OF THE HARVARD CARIES-RESISTANT STRAIN.

Abstract Sialoadenectomized male and female rats of the Harvard caries-resistant strain bred sufficiently well to permit carrying the strain through several generations. This procedure is being followed to determine whether a more exact and earlier selection of breeders can be made and thereby further increase the caries-resistance of this strain and reduce the variability among the offspring.
Stereoselective effects of 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) on schedule-controlled behavior

Abstract The effects of R(−)−, S(+) and R, S-1-2-5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-Aminopropane (DOM) were studied using rats responding under a fixed interval two-min schedule of food presentation. All three drugs decreased average rates of responding in a dose-related manner, with R-DOM being five to six times more potent than S-DOM but only about 1.2 times more potent than R,S-DOM. Relatively high doses of R,S-DOM and S-DOM increased the low response rates occurring at the beginning of the fixed interval and decreased the higher response rates occuring at the end of the interval (rate-dependent effects). These results are discussed in terms of the stereoselective metabolism of DOM and of the structural similarities between R-DOM and the behaviorally active isomer of LSD.
Extended Follow-up of Treated and Untreated Retinopathy in Incontinentia Pigmenti: Analysis of Peripheral Vascular Changes and Incidence of Retinal Detachment.

Importance Extended follow-up of treated and untreated retinopathy in incontinentia pigmenti (IP) has not previously been documented, to our knowledge. Objective To determine which eyes with IP are at risk for retinal detachment. Design, Setting, and Participants Observational cohort study of patients with IP who were retrospectively identified at a tertiary care academic center between 1976 and 2013. Fifty eyes of 25 female participants meeting clinical criteria for IP were followed up for at least 6 months. The last year of follow-up was between 1987 and 2014. Main Outcomes and Measures Progression of retinopathy or the development of retinal detachment was assessed with fluorescein angiography, clinical examination, or both. Results The median duration of follow-up was 9.3 years (range, 0.5-22.8 years). Over this period, 11 eyes (22%; 95% CI, 11%-33%) developed retinal detachment. The odds of retinal detachment were increased if there was retinal neovascularization (odds ratio, 11.61; 95% CI, 1.34-100.56; P = .03) or ischemic optic neuropathy (odds ratio, 5.27; 95% CI, 1.61-17.23; P = .006) on initial examination. A bimodal distribution of retinal detachments was observed, with most tractional detachments (7 eyes) occurring by age 2.5 years (median, 1.5 years; range, 14 days-7.0 years) and most rhegmatogenous detachments (4 eyes) occurring in adults (median age, 31.5 years; range, 14.0-47.0 years). Three eyes of young patients (≤2.5 years) developed tractional detachment, despite prophylactic ablation in 4 eyes; only one eye of older patients (≥14.0 years) developed retinal detachment following prophylactic ablation in 6 eyes. Persistent fetal vasculature appears to occur more commonly in IP (14%; 95% CI, 4%-25%) than in the general population. Conclusions and Relevance All eyes with retinopathy due to IP should be monitored throughout adulthood for the development of retinal complications. During infancy and early childhood, ophthalmoscopic examination should be performed frequently so that prompt treatment can be initiated if there is progressive disease. Because of the nonrandomized nature of this study, the indications for prophylactic ablation and its success rate remain uncertain. Patients with less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded from the analysis, which could have biased this study cohort toward patients with more severe or less severe disease.
Phagocytosis by human blood leucocytes during suppression of glycolysis

Abstract Phagocytosis of staphylococci by human blood leucocytes was measured during suppression of glycolysis with iodoacetate, 2 × 10 −4 M, and fluoride, 2 × 10 −2 M. Both inhibitors prevented the increased respiration usually associated with phagocytosis. When disappearance of supernatant bacteria was measured, leucocytes pretreated with iodoacetate removed as many bacteria as did normal leucocytes, indicating no alteration of phagocytic function with this inhibitor. In contrast, leucocytes pretreated with sodium fluoride showed marked inhibition of phagocytosis. Cells pretreated with iodoacetate were observed to have less granule lysis after phagocytosis than normal leucocytes. Measurements of granule-associated acid phosphatase activity confirmed this observation. Cells treated with sodium fluoride became swollen, vacuolated, permeable to eosin dye, and were rarely phagocytic. In contrast, such changes were not observed with iodoacetate in concentrations up to 5 × 10 −4 M. Thus fluoride appears to have a greater effect on cell function than can be attributed to glycolytic blockade alone. Rapid loss of acid-soluble ATP from blood leucocytes occurred after phagocytosis, and was accentuated in the presence of iodoacetate. These results indicate that active glycolysis is not essential for phagocytosis by human blood leucocytes. They suggest that some pre-formed energy source may be available to these cells for this function.
Filgrastim Treatment of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (M7) Relapse after Allogeneic Peripheral Stem Cell Transplantation Resulting in Both Graft-versus-Leukemia Effect with Cytogenetic Remission and Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease Manifesting as Polyserositis and Subsequent Bronchiolitis Obliterans with Organizing Pneumonia

Filgrastim (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) has recently been reported to successfully treat patients with leukemic relapse after allogeneic peripheral stem cell transplantation (PSCT). However, the majority of the patients who responded also developed graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Polyserositis as a manifestation of GVHD is a rare phenomenon. We report the first case of polyserositis following the use of filgrastim to treat a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia (M7), who had relapsed after an initially successful allogeneic PSCT. The polyserositis manifested with effusions and was initially controlled with high doses of steroids and pericardial stripping; however, after a quiescent period the patient eventually developed bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia that required additional immunosuppressive therapy. We review the literature on GVHD-associated polyserositis and offer potential explanations for its pathogenesis.Int J Hematol. 2002; 76: 360-364.
A Learning Model of Information Technology Outsourcing: Normative Implications

We use an economic learning model to examine how knowledge parameters characterizing a sourcing relationship between a vendor and a client interact with production costs and coordination costs to affect the business value of alternative outsourcing strategies. This information is then used to determine a firm's optimal rate of information technology (IT) outsourcing. We find that the optimal outsourcing rate is dependent on the ability of the outsourcing client to acquire production knowledge from its outsourcing vendor and to retain its internal coordination knowledge despite losses of fundamental production skills due to outsourcing. Specifically, when the client is unable to acquire sufficient production knowledge from the external vendor, the client's optimal outsourcing decision is to engage in either one of two extreme strategies-total insourcing or total outsourcing-depending on the rate at which the client's coordination knowledge depreciates. On the other hand, when the client is able to acquire a substantial amount of production knowledge from the external vendor, the firm's optimal decision is to outsource only a portion of its IT services, where the proportion depends on the rate at which the client's coordination knowledge depreciates.
Effectiveness of alternating mammography and magnetic resonance imaging for screening women with deleterious BRCA mutations at high risk of breast cancer

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to supplement screening mammography and clinical breast examination (CBE) in women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer. In this study, the authors investigated the efficacy of alternating screening mammography and breast MRI every 6 months in women who had a genetically high risk of developing breast cancer. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed on all women who were seen in a high-risk breast cancer clinic from 1997 to 2009. Patients with breast cancer gene (BRCA) mutations who underwent alternating screening mammography and breast MRI every 6 months were included in the study. Mammography, ultrasonography, MRI, and biopsy results were reviewed. RESULTS: Of 73 patients who met the study criteria, 37 had BRCA1 mutations, and 36 had BRCA2 mutations. Twenty-one patients (29%) completed 1 cycle of mammography and MRI surveillance, 23 patients (31%) completed 2 cycles, 18 patients (25%) completed 3 cycles, and patients 11 (15%) completed ≥4 cycles. The median follow-up was 2 years (range, 1-6 years). Thirteen cancers were detected among 11 women (15%). The mean tumor size was 14 mm (range, 1-30 mm), and 2 patients had bilateral cancers. Twelve of 13 cancers were detected on an MRI but not on the screening mammography study that was obtained 6 months earlier. One cancer (a 1-mm focus of ductal carcinoma in situ) was an incidental finding in a prophylactic mastectomy specimen. One patient had ipsilateral axillary lymphadenopathy identified on ultrasonography but had no evidence of lymph node involvement after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery. CONCLUSIONS: In women who were at genetically high risk of developing breast cancer, MRI detected cancers that were not identified on mammography 6 months earlier. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate the benefits of this screening regimen. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Swarm optimized UWB-PPM and protocol design for sensor network

In this paper, a swarm based ultra-wideband waveform and routing protocol is used for communicating messages in the form of short pulses in sensor based health care application. Due to the time sensitivity of the application, a cognitive protocol is applied to make decisions based on resource availability and quality-of-service. The combination of swarm based physical and routing layer protocol helps in achieving an energy, bandwidth and time efficient application. This paper compares the performance of cross layer protocol when exhaustive search and swarm based waveform design is used.
Nonpositive curvature on the area-preserving diffeomorphism group

Abstract A steady ideal fluid flow on a surface corresponds to a geodesic in the area-preserving diffeomorphism group. The sign of the curvature operator along this geodesic has been of interest since Arnold noticed its connection to Lagrangian stability of the flow: nonpositive curvature implies by the Rauch comparison theorem that Lagrangian perturbations grow at least linearly in time. We obtain a new necessary and sufficient criterion for a steady flow with analytic stream function and isolated zeroes to have nonpositive curvature operator: either the surface is a flat torus, and the fluid flow has constant pressure; or the surface is a sphere, disc, or annulus with a globally-defined polar coordinate system such that the metric is d s 2 = d r 2 + ϕ 2 ( r ) d θ 2 . In the latter case, the velocity field must be of the form X = u ( r ) ∂ θ . Furthermore, the function Q = ( u ϕ ′ ) ′ / u ′ must be defined for every r and satisfy the differential inequality ϕ Q ′ + Q 2 ≤ 1 . This criterion is proved by using a new formula for the curvature of the area-preserving diffeomorphism group in the rotationally symmetric case, involving only first integrals in one variable, rather than infinite sums or the solution of a PDE. Elementary consequences of the criterion are also discussed: for example, there are no flows with nonpositive curvature operator on the standard round sphere; and on a flat surface, every rotationally symmetric flow has nonpositive curvature operator. Finally we show that if a steady flow satisfies both this nonpositive curvature criterion and the well-known Eulerian stability criterion of Arnold, then all Lagrangian perturbations grow polynomially in time, in the L 2 norm. Thus this is the first time methods of Riemannian geometry have given rigorous information on stability.
Development of oat-based markers from barley and wheat microsatellites.

Although microsatellites are an efficient and reliable genetic marker system, availability is limited in cultivated oat (Avena sativa L.). Previous research has suggested that microsatellites from related species may be adapted to oat. This study investigated the stability of existing oat microsatellites, sequenced polymorphic oat amplicons derived from wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) primers, and redesigned primers to develop oat-based markers. We evaluated 161 published oat microsatellites and identified 9 with polymorphism between mapping parents Ogle1040 and TAM O-301 (OT). We also studied 30 wheat, 1 Aegilops tauschii Coss., and 9 barley primers with reported oat polymorphism. Sixteen primers (1 A. tauschii, 10 wheat, 5 barley) amplified random oat sequences and were used to generate 28 new oat STS markers. Eight primers, 4 each from wheat and barley, amplified oat repetitive motifs, generating 10 new oat SSRs. Four additional SSRs were developed from characterization of ...
Recovery From the 'Locked-in' Syndrome

• Four patients made substantial recovery following the locked-in syndrome of vascular origin. Clinical and radiologic features supported the presence of ventral pontine infarction secondary to basilar artery occlusion. Quadriplegia and mutism persisted for one to 12 weeks before recovery of motor function began. Improvement continued over several years. All patients regained functional though dysarthric speech. Three of the four patients are ambulatory, one without assistance. As a few patients make a notable recovery from the locked-in syndrome resulting from ventral pontine infarction, aggressive supportive therapy should be considered in the early months of the syndrome.
Reactions to secondhand smoke by nonsmokers of Korean descent: clash of cultures?

Koreans hail from a culture where men’s smoking and secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure were the norm. Little is known about how nonsmokers of Korean descent respond to smokers in the United States. In 2007–2008, trained moderators conducted eight focus groups with nonsmokers (n = 47) of Korean descent in San Diego. Participants discussed their personal experiences and views concerning SHS. Most participants detected SHS quickly and disliked the smell. Their reactions differed by gender, age, and how well they knew the smoker. Reactions ranged from passive (e.g., tolerating SHS or staring) to assertive (moving or asking the smoker to stop smoking). Younger participants were more tolerant than older participants. Participants appeared caught between two cultures. Despite high awareness, they struggled with how to avoid SHS in a manner befitting of their social status and Korean values. Culturally sensitive programs are needed for immigrants such as Koreans in the United States.
What a nuisance: Controlling for negative affectivity versus personality in hospitality stress research

Abstract One stream of dispositional stress research examines the role negative affectivity (NA) plays in the stressor–strain relationship, with most research showing NA is a nuisance factor – spuriously inflating stressor–strain associations. Personality is not unidimensional, though, and measuring a single construct may be inadequate. This study reexamines the impact NA has in the hospitality context, and the role played by NA when all five global dimensions of personality – the Big Five – are included. Variance reduction rates revealed that (a) NA is a “nuisance factor,” and (b) the Big Five have differential effects – either inflationary or deflationary – depending upon the stressor–strain relationship examined.
A test of knowledge about prostate cancer screening. Online pilot evaluation among Southern California Physicians.

BACKGROUND: Although the benefits of prostate cancer screening are uncertain and guidelines recommend that physicians share the screening decision with their patients, most U.S. men over age 50 are routinely screened, often without counseling. OBJECTIVE: To develop an instrument for assessing physicians’ knowledge related to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations on prostate cancer screening. PARTICIPANTS: Seventy internists, family physicians, and general practitioners in the Los Angeles area who deliver primary care to adult men. MEASUREMENTS: We assessed knowledge related to prostate cancer screening (natural history, test characteristics, treatment effects, and guideline recommendations), beliefs about the net benefits of screening, and prostate cancer screening practices for men in different age groups, using an online survey. We constructed a knowledge scale having 15 multiple-choice items. RESULTS: Participants’ mean knowledge score was 7.4 (range 3 to 12) of 15 (Cronbach’s α=0.71). Higher knowledge scores were associated with less belief in a mortality benefit from prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing (r=−.49, P<.001). Participants could be categorized as low, age-selective, and high users of routine PSA screening. High users had lower knowledge scores than age-selective or low users, and they believed much more in mortality benefits from PSA screening. CONCLUSIONS: Based on its internal consistency and its correlations with measures of physicians’ net beliefs and self-reported practices, the knowledge scale developed in this study holds promise for measuring the effects of professional education on prostate cancer screening. The scale deserves further evaluation in broader populations.
Automated Testing of the SAS-A Experiment

The small astronomy satellite (SAS-A) was placed into earth orbit in December 1970 with one experiment designed to scan the celestial sphere for sources of X-ray emission. An automated test procedure was used to confirm proper operation of all the experiment sensors and electronics prior to launch of the spacecraft. The testing that had to be conducted over the operational spacecraft telemetry and command channels from a remote location was automated by use of a general-purpose computer system. The computer was programmed to set the experiment into a predetermined configuration of sensor and electronic activation by commanding the spacecraft to turn on specific X-ray and electronic pulsetrain sources external to the experiment by commanding a source control unit, and to receive, decommutate, and process the telemetered experiment data from the spacecraft to produce a summary printout of test results for the experiment checkout engineer. The automated testing worked very well, greatly reducing the total time required to check out thoroughly the experiment portion of the spacecraft and allowing a comprehensive test and calibration of the experiment to be run during the actual launch countdown.
Extracorporeal photopheresis attenuates murine graft-versus-host disease via bone marrow-derived interleukin-10 and preserves responses to dendritic cell vaccination.

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is emerging as a therapy for graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), but the full mechanism of action and the impact on immunity have not been fully established. After murine minor histocompatibility antigen–mismatched bone marrow (BM) transplantation (allo-BMT), coinfusion of ECP-treated splenocytes with T cell–replete BM attenuated GVHD irrespective of the donor strain of the ECP-treated splenocytes, and was associated with increased numbers of regulatory T cells. Coculture of myeloid dendritic cells (DCs) with ECP-treated splenocytes resulted in increased interleukin (IL)-10 production after submaximal stimulation with lipopolysaccharide. Furthermore, male myeloid DCs exposed to ECP-treated splenocytes were less potent at inducing CD8+ HY responses when used as a vaccine in vivo. The efficacy of ECP-treated splenocytes was enhanced when administered just before delayed donor lymphocyte infusion following T cell–depleted allo-BMT, allowing for the administration of sufficient numbers of T cells to respond to myeloid DC vaccination in the absence of a thymus. Finally, the therapeutic effect of ECP-treated splenocytes was lost in recipients of IL-10–deficient BM. We demonstrate that ECP-treated splenocytes attenuate GVHD irrespective of the source of ECP-treated cells via a mechanism that likely involves modulation of DCs and requires IL-10 produced by BM-derived cells. Importantly, the attenuation of GVHD by ECP-treated splenocytes permits donor lymphocyte infusion–dependent responses to DC vaccines after allo-BMT.
Immunosuppression Enhances Oncolytic Adenovirus Replication and Antitumor Efficacy in the Syrian Hamster Model

We recently described an immunocompetent Syrian hamster model for oncolytic adenoviruses (Ads) that permits virus replication in tumor cells as well as some normal tissues. This model allows exploration of interactions between the virus, tumor, normal organs, and host immune system that could not be examined in the immunodeficient or nonpermissive animal models previously used in the oncolytic Ad field. Here we asked whether the immune response to oncolytic Ad enhances or limits antitumor efficacy. We first determined that cyclophosphamide (CP) is a potent immunosuppressive agent in the Syrian hamster and that CP alone had no effect on tumor growth. Importantly, we found that the antitumor efficacy of oncolytic Ads was significantly enhanced in immunosuppressed animals. In animals that received virus therapy plus immunosuppression, significant differences were observed in tumor histology, and in many cases little viable tumor remained. Notably, we also determined that immunosuppression allowed intratumoral virus levels to remain elevated for prolonged periods. Although favorable tumor responses can be achieved in immunocompetent animals, the rate of virus clearance from the tumor may lead to varied antitumor efficacy. Immunosuppression, therefore, allows sustained Ad replication and oncolysis, which leads to substantially improved suppression of tumor growth.
A model of post home-arrival activity participation behavior

Abstract The research presented here develops a methodology to jointly model travelers’ activity-type choice for participation, home-stay duration before participation in an out-of-home activity and out-of-home activity duration of participation. The paper applies the methodology to examine travelers’ activity behavior after returning home at the end of the work tour using data from a Boston region household activity survey. The empirical results underscore the importance of accommodating the inter-relationships among different elements of an individual’s activity behavior. The results also provide important insights into the determinants of travelers’ post home-arrival activity participation behavior.
Control of charge transfer in a series of Ru2(II,II)/TCNQ two-dimensional networks by tuning the electron affinity of TCNQ units: a route to synergistic magnetic/conducting materials.

The isostructural series of two-dimensional (2-D) fishnet-type network compounds, [{Ru2(O2CCF3)4}2(TCNQRx)]·n(solv) (Rx = H4, 1; Br2, 2; Cl2, 3; F2, 4; F4, 5), has been synthesized from the reactions of a paddlewheel diruthenium(II, II) complex, [Ru2II,II(O2CCF3)4], and neutral TCNQ derivatives (TCNQRx = 2,3,5,6- or 2,5-halogen-substituted 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane) under anaerobic conditions. Corresponding Rh compounds 1-Rh−5-Rh, which are diamagnetic and redox-inactive, were also synthesized for the purpose of comparison with 1−5. According to the electron affinity of TCNQRx, which is related to its first reduction potential, the Ru2 series (1−5) has the requisite driving force for charge transfer from [Ru2II,II(O2CCF3)4] to TCNQRx, which can lead to a mixed-valence state of [{Ru24.5+}-(TCNQRx• −)-{Ru24.5+}] for the 2-D network. Such a charge (or electron) transfer results in magnetic exchange interactions between [Ru2] units (S = 1 for [Ru2II,II] and S = 3/2 for [Ru2II,III]+) via TCNQRx• − S = 1...