cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SiGe band engineering for MOS, CMOS and quantum effect devices

In this paper, we review recent progress in SiGe MOS technology. Progress in high mobility p-channel and n-channel devices will be presented as well as some of the materials and processing issues related to the fabrication of these heterostructures. In addition, we will present an outlook on the integration of these devices to complimentary MOS (CMOS) based on Si on Insulator technology (SOI). New directions of novel devices utilizing selective epitaxial growth and the integration of Si/Ge superlattices for enhanced performance in field effect transistors are described. Finally, we will examine some of the materials challenges of integrating SiGe technologies with current CMOS production processes.
Rare earth elements in hydrothermal systems: Estimates of standard partial molal thermodynamic properties of aqueous complexes of the rare earth elements at high pressures and temperatures

Abstract Standard partial molal thermodynamic properties including association constants for 246 inorganic aqueous rare earth element (REE) complexes with chloride, fluoride, hydroxide, carbonate, sulfate, bicarbonate, nitrate, and orthophosphate can be calculated at pressures from 1 to 5000 bars and temperatures from 0 to 1000°C, using experimental data from the literature and correlation algorithms. Predicted association constants for REE complexes are used to calculate the speciation of the REEs in simulated and natural fluid compositions over ranges of pH, temperature, and pressure. Our results demonstrate that in a generalized chloride-rich hydrothermal fluid, REE transport may be facilitated by formation of chloride, fluoride, and hydroxide complexes at acidic, neutral, and basic pH conditions, respectively. The HREEs (GdLu) are complexed more strongly by fluoride, and less strongly by chloride, than the LREEs (LaSm), whereas at basic pH conditions HREEs and LREEs strongly associate with hydroxide to an equivalent degree. Estimates of REE speciation in natural hydrothermal solutions that differ in composition and geologic setting demonstrate that different REE-complexes predominate in different environments. It follows that ad hoc assumptions about the identity of complexes which are responsible for REE mobility in a given geologic setting are not necessary.
Thermochemical conversion of raw and defatted algal biomass via hydrothermal liquefaction and slow pyrolysis

Thermochemical conversion is a promising route for recovering energy from algal biomass. Two thermochemical processes, hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL: 300 °C and 10-12 MPa) and slow pyrolysis (heated to 450 °C at a rate of 50 °C/min), were used to produce bio-oils from Scenedesmus (raw and defatted) and Spirulina biomass that were compared against Illinois shale oil. Although both thermochemical conversion routes produced energy dense bio-oil (35-37 MJ/kg) that approached shale oil (41 MJ/kg), bio-oil yields (24-45%) and physico-chemical characteristics were highly influenced by conversion route and feedstock selection. Sharp differences were observed in the mean bio-oil molecular weight (pyrolysis 280-360 Da; HTL 700-1330 Da) and the percentage of low boiling compounds (bp<400 °C) (pyrolysis 62-66%; HTL 45-54%). Analysis of the energy consumption ratio (ECR) also revealed that for wet algal biomass (80% moisture content), HTL is more favorable (ECR 0.44-0.63) than pyrolysis (ECR 0.92-1.24) due to required water volatilization in the latter technique.
N-acetylaspartylglutamate identified in the rat retinal ganglion cells and their projections in the brain.

Abstract N-Acetylaspartyglutamate-like immunoreactivity (NAAG-L) was identified in retinal ganglion cell bodies and their axons. The presence of the dipeptide in ganglion cell projection areas, the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and superior colliculus (SC), was confirmed following NAAG purification from these tissues by a high-performance liquid chromatographic method. NAAG-L was identified in the optic tract as well as within fibers and puncta in the LGN and SC. The hypothesis that NAAG is present within ganglion cell axons in the brain was tested by unilateral enucleation which resulted in loss of NAAG and NAAG-L within the contralateral LGN and SC.
Geomechanical response of permafrost-associated hydrate deposits to depressurization-induced gas production

In this simulation study, we analyzed the geomechanical response during depressurization production from two known hydrate-bearing permafrost deposits: the Mallik (Northwest Territories, Canada) deposit and Mount Elbert (Alaska, USA) deposit. Gas was produced from these deposits at constant pressure using horizontal wells placed at the top of a hydrate layer (HL), located at a depth of about 900 m at the Mallik site and 600 m at the Mount Elbert site. The simulation results show that general thermodynamic and geomechanical responses are similar for the two sites, but with substantially higher production and more intensive geomechanical responses at the deeper Mallik deposit. The depressurization-induced dissociation begins at the well bore and then spreads laterally, mainly along the top of the HL. The depressurization results in an increased shear stress within the body of the receding hydrate and causes a vertical compaction of the reservoir. However, its effects are partially mitigated by the relatively stiff permafrost overburden, and compaction of the HL is limited to less than 0.4%. The increased shear stress may lead to shear failure in the hydrate-free zone bounded by the HL overburden and the downward-receding upper dissociation interface. This zone undergoes complete hydrate dissociation, and the cohesive strength of the sediment is low. We determined that the likelihood of shear failure depends on the initial stress state as well as on the geomechanical properties of the reservoir. The Poisson's ratio of the hydrate-bearing formation is a particularly important parameter that determines whether the evolution of the reservoir stresses will increase or decrease the likelihood of shear failure.
On the arithmetic of abelian varieties

In w 1 we consider the situation: L/K is a finite separable field extension, A is an abelian variety over L, and A, is the abelian variety over K obtained from A by restriction of scalars. We study the arithmetic properties of A, relative to those of A, and in particular show that the conjectures of Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer hold for A if and only if they hold for A, . In w 2 we study certain twisted products of abelian varieties and use our results to show that the conjectures of Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer are true for a large class of twisted constant elliptic curves over function fields. In w we develop a method of handling abelian varieties over a number field K which are of CM-type but which do not have all their complex multiplications defined over K. In particular we compute under quite general conditions the conductors and zeta functions of such abelian varieties and so verify Serre's conjecture [12] on the form of the functional equation. Similar, but less complete, results have been obtained by Deuring [1] for elliptic curves and Shimura [15] for abelian varieties.
Infrared observation of evaporative cooling during spin-coating processes

To explore the origin of chuck-related surface nonuniformities in thin films deposited from solutions, real-time observations of evaporative cooling effects during spin-coating of solvents are made using an IR switched-field-effect-transistor (FET) array camera. The evaporative cooling depends strongly on the volatility of the solvent being tested. For acetone (the most volatile solvent tested) the cooling eftect can be as large as 10°C when a silicon wafer is used as the substrate. Comparisons are made between wafer type and position on the substrate and sources of the temperature differences are discussed within the framework of the basic spin-coating paradigm. It is likely that these evaporative cooling effects play an important role in the development of chuck-related surface nonuniformities during spin coating; solvent systems may be selected to help optimize film uniformity. These aspects of solution engineering are also discussed.
Human adenovirus type 35: nucleotide sequence and vector development.

In this report, we describe the complete 34 794 base pair genomic sequence of the human adenovirus serotype 35 (Ad35) Holden strain. The viral genome exhibits a compact organization similar to other adenoviral serotypes, with overlapping genes on both strands. In all, 47 open reading frames (ORFs) were identified, including early (E1, 2, 3, 4) and late (L1, 2, 3, 4, 5) regions conserved among the adenoviridae family. In addition, 14 ORFs were identified that do not encode known adenoviral genes. Comparison of the predicted translational products of the conserved genes with those of other adenoviruses revealed that Ad35 has high homology to Ad7, Ad3, Ad21, Ad17, and simian Ads25. Based on the complete Ad35 DNA sequence, E3-, E1-, and E1/E3-deleted Ad35-based vector systems were developed. An HEK293-derived cell line was established for the propagation of the E1-deleted Ad35 vector, avoiding the emergence of replication-competent adenovirus. Moreover, production of the E1-deleted recombinant Ad35 vector was achieved by transient transduction of a plasmid encoding the Ad35 E1B gene in HEK293 cells. Testing showed that the Ad35-based vector efficiently infects both human and rhesus macaque dendritic cells. Our novel Ad35-based vectors and their corresponding packaging cell lines will provide a versatile and powerful system for DNA-based vaccine development and gene therapy applications.
Simultaneous studies of hilar and capsular renal lymph

Abstract The flow of lymph and the mean transit time of tracers between plasma and lymph were measured simultaneously in renal hilar and capsular lymphatics. These measurements were compared under control and experimental conditions. A high correlation was found in the response of hilar and capsular lymph both in terms of lymph flow and tracer transit time. These data provide no evidence for a specific contribution to hilar lymph from the deep region of the medulla.
A simple significance test for quantile regression

Where OLS regression seeks to model the mean of a random variable as a function of observed variables, quantile regression seeks to model the quantiles of a random variable as functions of observed variables. Tests for the dependence of the quantiles of a random variable upon observed variables have only been developed through the use of computer resampling or based on asymptotic approximations resting on distributional assumptions. We propose an exceedingly simple but heretofore undocumented likelihood ratio test within a logistic regression framework to test the dependence of a quantile of a random variable upon observed variables. Simulated data sets are used to illustrate the rationale, ease, and utility of the hypothesis test. Simulations have been performed over a variety of situations to estimate the type I error rates and statistical power of the procedure. Results from this procedure are compared to (1) previously proposed asymptotic tests for quantile regression and (2) bootstrap techniques commonly used for quantile regression inference. Results show that this less computationally intense method has appropriate type I error control, which is not true for all competing procedures, comparable power to both previously proposed asymptotic tests and bootstrap techniques, and greater computational ease. We illustrate the approach using data from 779 adolescent boys age 12-18 from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) to test hypotheses regarding age, ethnicity, and their interaction upon quantiles of waist circumference.
Allele-level HLA cord blood matching matters.

In this issue of Blood , Eapen et al report that improved allele-level matching for 4 HLA loci (-A, -B, -C, and -DRB1) produces better outcomes in single cord blood transplants (CBTs). We applaud the investigators for advancing cord blood selection criteria that will improve patient survival.[1][1
WHAM: A High-Throughput Sequence Alignment Method

Over the last decade, the cost of producing genomic sequences has dropped dramatically due to the current so-called next-generation sequencing methods. However, these next-generation sequencing methods are critically dependent on fast and sophisticated data processing methods for aligning a set of query sequences to a reference genome using rich string matching models. The focus of this work is on the design, development and evaluation of a data processing system for this crucial “short read alignment” problem. Our system, called WHAM, employs hash-based indexing methods and bitwise operations for sequence alignments. It allows rich match models and it is significantly faster than the existing state-of-the-art methods. In addition, its relative speedup over the existing method is poised to increase in the future in which read sequence lengths will increase.
RHEOLOGY AND EXTRUSION OF MAIZE GRITS

Abstract The food dough viscosity is investigated under extrusion conditions and this is then related to the product (maize grits) properties. The shear and temperature history is simulated by using long slit dies.
Applications of high level control flow

Control flow relations in a high level language program can be represented by a hierarchy of small graphs that combines nesting relations among statements in an ALGOL-like syntax with relevant perturbations caused by goto or leave statements. Applications of the new style of representation include denotational semantics, data flow analysis, source level compiler diagnostics, and program proving.
Metabolic cycles as an underlying basis of biological oscillations

The evolutionary origins of periodic phenomena in biology, such as the circadian cycle, the hibernation cycle and the sleep-wake cycle, remain a mystery. We discuss the concept of temporal compartmentalization of metabolism that takes place during such cycles, and suggest that cyclic changes in a cell's metabolic state might be a fundamental driving force for such biological oscillations.
The Castro-Chávez Alliance

Socialist Cuba and Bolivarian Venezuela have embarked jointly on a historic journey of hemispheric dimensions. Under the collaborative and solidarity alliance between Havana and Caracas a complex w...
A comparison of Pd Schottky contacts on InP, GaAs and Si

Abstract The Schottky-barrier energy φB of Pd contacts on InP, GaAs and Si were measured and the metallurgical behavior of the contact structures were studied using Auger electron spectroscopy. A carefully processed set of samples were used to show conclusively that φB is greater on p-InP that on n-InP, unlike the behavior of GaAs and Si Schottky diodes fabricated at the same time with similar processing steps.
Complications of arteriography in a recent series of 707 cases: factors affecting outcome.

Seven hundred and seven consecutive arteriograms were analyzed regarding the effects of various factors on clinical outcome. Complication rates were assessed regarding age, inpatient or outpatient procedures, operator caseload, clinical indication, preoperative renal disease, approach site, graft puncture, selective injection of arteries, amount of contrast, and catheterization time. The major complication rate for arteriography was 7% and the mortality rate was 0.7%. The complication rates for femoral and axillary approaches, respectively, were local, 9% and 27%; nervous system, 1.4% and 11%; and major, 6% and 24% (p=0.0075,p<0.0001, andp<0.0001, respectively). Brachial plexus injury was noted in 13% of the patients undergoing the axillary approach. There was a trend toward a higher overall complication rate in four-vessel arch aortograms with selective vs. nonselective carotid injections, but both had similar neurologic complications. More contrast was used in patients with post-arteriogram renal failure, 224 ml vs. 168 ml. The complication rates were directly related to catheterization time, amount of contrast, and number of vessels punctured. There was a trend toward a higher complication rate in physicians with a lower caseload. In conclusion, arteriography is still associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The transfemoral approach is safer than the transaxillary route, even in patients with femoral graft punctures.
Explaining load dependence of ventricular contractile properties with a model of excitation-contraction coupling.

Abstract A theory is present which accounts for a very broad range of ventricular properties that have been noted in recent experiments. The theory is bases upon a four-state biochemical scheme that accounts for the dynamic interaction between calcium, actin and myosin which includes a calcium-free force generating complex between actin and myosin. This original scheme was supplemented by incorporating two additional basic properties of cardiac muscle: length dependence of calcium binding affinity and load dependence of force generation. The biochemical scheme was used to provide the force-length-time properties of cardiac muscle which were used to construct a ventricle via a spherical geometry. In addition to being able to accurately interrelate previously measured calcium and muscle force transients, this theory was able to account for many fundamental aspects of ventricular performance including: a realistic contractility dependent curvilinearity of the end-systolic pressure-volume relationship; enhancement of contractile strength on ejecting compared to isovolumic beats; improved contractile efficiency on ejecting as compared to isovolumic beats; appropriate load-dependent changes in time to peak pressure, time constant of relaxation and duration of contraction on isovolumic and ejecting beats; realistic estimated time course of tension-dependent heat generation. The explanation for these phenomena were explored within the context of the theory and presented in detail.
High-order numerical solutions in frequency-independent computational times for scattering applications associated with surfaces with composite roughness

We introduce a new numerical scheme capable of producing, in frequency independent computational times, high-order solutions to scattering problems associated with surfaces with composite roughness. The procedure can be interpreted as providing a high-order version of the classical (low-order) two-scale method and, as such, it can produce solutions of significantly higher quality with comparable computational effort. The basic strategy consists of a suitable combination of (1) a high-order boundary perturbation treatment that views the highly oscillatory components of the surface as a (possibly large) deformation of the slowly varying portion; and (2) an accurate solution method applicable to single-scattering configurations for the sequence of high-frequency scattering problems that results from (1), which entails a fixed, frequency-independent computational cost. More precisely, the boundary variation procedure in (1) allows for the representation of the fields as a convergent sum of terms which are rec...
Should the Health Care Forest Be Selectively Thinned by Physicians or Clear Cut by Payers

▪ As the need to set limits in health care becomes more generally accepted, physicians and policymakers need to consider who can best decide how to allocate medical resources among patients. This c...
Degradation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors during cell stimulation is a specific process mediated by cysteine protease activity.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptors are down-regulated in response to chronic activation of certain cell surface receptors because their degradation is accelerated. Studies on the nature of the down-regulatory process and the protease(s) responsible for receptor degradation are described here. InsP3 receptor down-regulation was not accompanied by parallel changes in the concentrations of several other relevant proteins (endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, and protein kinases α and e). Thus, the down-regulatory process selectively targets InsP3 receptors for degradation. Furthermore, down-regulation was unaffected by brefeldin A and NH4Cl, indicating that InsP3 receptor degradation occurs without removal of receptors from the endoplasmic reticulum and independently of functional lysosomes. Analysis of InsP3 receptor immunofluorescence confirmed that the receptors are not redistributed prior to or during down-regulation. Finally, of a range of protease inhibitors tested, only N-acetyl-Leu-Leu-norleucinal blocked down-regulation. Thus, cysteine protease activity accounts for InsP3 receptor degradation and analysis of proteolysis in permeabilized cells indicates that this activity is calpain. Thus, InsP3 receptor down-regulation appears to result from the highly selective calpain-mediated degradation of InsP3 receptors. Calpain activity may be stimulated by the high concentrations of Ca2+ that are thought to be found in the vicinity of activated InsP3 receptors.
An Immortal Cell Culture Model of Hypothalamic Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons

Abstract The neuroendocrine hypothalamus has been the object of intensive study in vivo and in tissue slices. However, using these models it is difficult to approach questions at the molecular and cellular level and to differentiate between direct effects and those mediated by other neurons. By using the regulatory domain of the rat gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) gene to target expression of the oncogene SV40 T antigen in transgenic mice, we have produced hypothalamic tumors which were cultured to produce clonal cell lines (GT1 cells). These cells express GnRH and many other neuronal markers, but do not express glial cell markers or other hypothalamic hormones. They have a distinctive neuronal phenotype, process the GnRH peptide accurately, and secrete GnRH in a pulsatile pattern. They respond to many neurotransmitters and neuromodulators including activin, norepinephrine, dopamine, nitric oxide, NMDA, and GABA, as well as GnRH itself. Thus, we have immortalized GnRH neurons by targeting oncogenesis to a defined population of neurons using the regulatory region of a gene which is expressed late in the differentiation of that cell lineage. The GT1 cell lines serve as an excellent model for molecular, pharmacological, electrophysiological, and biochemical investigations into the regulation of GnRH and the characteristics of a pure CNS neuronal population. Moreover, their derivation demonstrates the success of targeting tumorigenesis to specific differentiated neurons of the central nervous system in transgenic mice.
Estimation of time-varying parameters in statistical models: an optimization approach

We propose a convex optimization approach to solving the nonparametric regression estimation problem when the underlying regression function is Lipschitz continuous. This approach is based on the minimization of the sum of empirical squared errors, subject to the constraints implied by Lipschitz continuity. The resulting optimization problem has a convex objective function and linear constraints, and as a result, is efficiently solvable. The estimated function computed by this technique, is proven to convergeto the underlying regression function uniformly and almost surely, when the sample size grows to infinity, thus providing a very strong form of consistency. Wealso propose a convex optimization approach to the maximum likelihood estimation of unknown parameters in statistical models, where the parameters depend continuously on some observable input variables. For a number of classical distributional forms, the objective function in the underlying optimization problem is convex and the constraints are linear. These problems are, therefore, also efficiently solvable.
Leadership for Social Justice: An Agenda for 21st Century Schools.

Abstract The shift in the demographic data highlights the growth in minority, second language learner, and economically disadvantaged student populations that traditionally have been underserved in public schools (Marshall and Oliva 2006). The purpose of this discussion is to explore the leadership praxis of four female secondary school leaders faced with challenges of social justice, democracy, and equity in their schools. The principals could be characterized as stewards of social justice in their school communities.
Augmented warning sound detection for hearing protectors

Perception of warning sounds, such as vehicle backup alarms, is reduced when hearing protection devices (HPDs) are worn. A cross-correlation approach is employed to detect a pre-selected warning sound and enable it to bypass the attenuation of the HPD while still attenuating the environmental noise. Computer simulation shows that the algorithm can detect the specified alarm at signal-to-environmental-noise ratios as low as −30 dB. Human subject testing of the algorithm, implemented on a modified commercial HPD, confirms the minimum detection threshold obtained in simulation, and demonstrates a 7 dB improvement in detection threshold compared with the unmodified HPD.
Two-Stage, Hybrid Flowshop Scheduling Problem

This paper describes the two-stage flowshop problem when there are identical multiple machines at each stage, and shows that the problem is NP-complete. An efficient heuristic algorithm is developed for finding an approximate solution of a special case when there is only one machine at stage 2. The effectiveness of the proposed heuristic algorithm in finding a minimum makespan schedule is empirically evaluated and found to increase with the increase in the number of jobs.
Heterogeneity of systemic inflammatory responses to periodontal therapy.

Aims We investigated the effect of comprehensive periodontal therapy on the levels of multiple systemic inflammatory biomarkers. Material and methods Thirty patients with severe periodontitis received comprehensive periodontal therapy within a 6-week period. Blood samples were obtained at: 1-week pre-therapy (T1), therapy initiation (T2), treatment completion (T3), and 4 weeks thereafter (T4). We assessed the plasma concentrations of 19 biomarkers using multiplex assays, and serum IgG antibodies to periodontal bacteria using checkerboard immunoblotting. At T2 and T4, dental plaque samples were analysed using checkerboard hybridizations. Results At T3, PAI-1, sE-selectin, sVCAM-1, MMP-9, myeloperoxidase, and a composite summary inflammatory score (SIS) were significantly reduced. However, only sE-selectin, sICAM, and serum amyloid P sustained a reduction at T4. Responses were highly variable: analyses of SIS slopes between baseline and T4 showed that approximately 1/3 and 1/4 of the patients experienced a marked reduction and a pronounced increase in systemic inflammation, respectively, while the remainder were seemingly unchanged. Changes in inflammatory markers correlated poorly with clinical, microbiological and serological markers of periodontitis. Conclusions Periodontal therapy resulted in an overall reduction of systemic inflammation, but the responses were inconsistent across subjects and largely not sustainable. The determinants of this substantial heterogeneity need to be explored further.
Photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging using dual contrast perfluorocarbon nanodroplets triggered by laser pulses at 1064 nm

Recently, a dual photoacoustic and ultrasound contrast agent—named photoacoustic nanodroplet—has been introduced. Photoacoustic nanodroplets consist of a perfluorocarbon core, surfactant shell, and encapsulated photoabsorber. Upon pulsed laser irradiation the perfluorocarbon converts to gas, inducing a photoacoustic signal from vaporization and subsequent ultrasound contrast from the resulting gas microbubbles. In this work we synthesize nanodroplets which encapsulate gold nanorods with a peak absorption near 1064 nm. Such nanodroplets are optimal for extended photoacoustic imaging depth and contrast, safety and system cost. We characterized the nanodroplets for optical absorption, image contrast and vaporization threshold. We then imaged the particles in an ex vivo porcine tissue sample, reporting contrast enhancement in a biological environment. These 1064 nm triggerable photoacoustic nanodroplets are a robust biomedical tool to enhance image contrast at clinically relevant depths.
Purification method for recombinant proteins based on a fusion between the target protein and the C-terminus of calmodulin

Calmodulin (CaM) was used as an affinity tail to facilitate the purification of the green fluorescent protein (GFP), which was used as a model target protein. The protein GFP was fused to the C-terminus of CaM, and a factor Xa cleavage site was introduced between the two proteins. A CaM-GFP fusion protein was expressed in E. coli and purified on a phenothiazine-derivatized silica column. CaM binds to the phenothiazine on the column in a Ca(2+)-dependent fashion and it was, therefore, used as an affinity tail for the purification of GFP. The fusion protein bound to the affinity column was then subjected to a proteolytic digestion with factor Xa. Pure GFP was eluted with a Ca(2+)-containing buffer, while CaM was eluted later with a buffer containing the Ca(2+)-chelating agent EGTA. The purity of the isolated GFP was verified by SDS-PAGE, and the fluorescence properties of the purified GFP were characterized.
Occurrence of pyroglutamyl peptidase II, a specific TRH degrading enzyme in rabbit retinal membranes and in human retinoblastoma cells

Abstract Pyroglutamyl peptidase II, a highly specific thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH)-degrading enzyme is found in highest concentration in brain where it is localized to synaptic membranes. Retina contains relatively high concentrations of both immunoreactive TRH and TRH receptors. We report that the specific activity of pyroglutamyl peptidase II in rabbit retinal membranes exceeds that of all non-CNS tissues thus far studies. Nine clonal cell lines were screened for this enzymatic activity. The specific activity of pyroglutamyl peptidase II in Y79 retinoblastoma cells was greater than the highest activity found in other cell lines by approximately one order of magnitude. These studies further support a functional relationship between pyroglutamyl peptidase II and TRH and identify a cell line suitable for studies on the regulation of this enzyme.
Multimodality imaging in an orthotopic mammary window chamber model

Window chamber models have been utilized for many years to investigate cancer development and the tumor microenvironment. Orthotopic mammary window chamber model have been developed for detailed study of breast cancer. Orthotopic window chamber models, due to the native environment, support more realistic growth and tumor behavior than ectopic models. The work by other groups thus far utilizing mammary window chamber models has focused solely on optical imaging techniques, limited to probing the first millimeter or less of tissue. These techniques do not take full advantage of the unrestricted, three-dimensional tumor growth the model supports. We have developed a custom plastic structure compatible with multimodality imaging. We present in this work the implementation of our custom window chamber in a mouse model and the successful imaging of the window chamber cancer model with MRI, nuclear imaging, and optical techniques. MRI provides a full three-dimensional view of the tumor growth and allows for additional, potentially clinically translatable, approaches to be utilized in investigating the cancer microenvironment. Nuclear imaging is accomplished using the Beta Imager, which is a novel approach to nuclear imaging of window chambers. The Beta Imager detects photons after the interaction of a single positron with a scintillator, instead of the coincidence detection of annihilation gamma ray pairs. We utilized the radioisotope glucose analog, 2-deoxy-2- ( 18 F)fluoro-D-glucose or FDG, with the Beta Imager to obtain information on the glycolytic metabolism of the tumor and surrounding region.
TEENAGE DRIVERS AND MOTOR VEHICLE DEATHS

In 1978, passenger vehicle drivers 16 and 17 years old were in crashes that resulted in 4198 deaths. Motor vehicles account for nearly half the deaths of 16-19 year olds in the U.S. Teenage drivers contribute substantially to motor vehicle related deaths, both their own and others. Teenage drivers have greatly elevated rates of fatal crash involvement per capita and especially, per licensed driver. More deaths per licensed driver are associated with the passenger vehicle crashes of 18 year olds than for any other age. Deaths per licensed driver are next highest for 16, 17 and 19 year olds. Various possible ways to reduce the deaths that result from teenagers driving are discussed.
Fast, accurate simulation for SDN prototyping

Thorough test and evaluation of new software-defined network (SDN)-based applications and configurations present many challenges. Examples of these challenges include scaling to large networks, accuracy, and efficiency in evaluation along with the ability to easily transition between prototype and test environments. Current methods for test and evaluation include new programming languages and frameworks, debugging and static analysis techniques, and VM- and container-based emulation tools.In this paper we describe a simulation-based tool called fs-sdn that complements and expands upon these existing approaches. Our work is designed to address the problem of prototyping and evaluating new SDN-based applications accurately, at large scale, and in a way that enables easy translation to real controller platforms like POX and NOX. We describe the design, implementation and use of fs-sdn, and demonstrate its capability by carrying out a series of experiments using fs-sdn and the Mininet platform in nearly identical configurations. We show that the measurements derived from fs-sdn are accurate compared with Mininet, but offer significant speed and scalability advantages.
The Parasitism of Red Pine and Other Forest Nursery Crops By Tylenchorhynchus Claytoni Steiner 1)

The tobacco stunt nematode, Tylenchorhynchus claytoni, was parasitic on but not pathogenic to, red pine seedlings (Pinus resinosa Ait.). Twelve other species of forest nursery seedlings were also found to be hosts for this nematode. No feeding or reproduction was found on red pine callus in vitro but the nematode fed and reproduced on red pine roots in agar culture. Little or no visible damage to roots was caused by nematode attack. However, the organization of root-cap cells was disrupted by the feeding activity of the nematode.
Evaluation of Optimal Acquisition Duration or Injected Activity for Pediatric 18F-FDG PET/CT

Pediatric 18F-FDG dosing and acquisition durations are generally based on coarse extrapolation from adult guidelines. This study sought to determine whether shorter acquisition durations or a lower 18F-FDG injected activity could be used for pediatric 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations while maintaining diagnostic utility. Reduction of overall scan time potentially reduces motion artifacts, improves patient comfort, and decreases length of sedation. Alternatively, decreased 18F-FDG dose minimizes radiation risk. Methods: Fourteen whole-body 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations were performed on 13 patients (weight, 13–109 kg; age range, 1–23 y) with a weight-based injected activity (5.3 MBq/kg [0.144 mCi/kg]), fixed acquisition durations (3 min/field of view [FOV] if 22 kg), and list-mode acquisition. For each examination, the list-mode data were truncated to form multiple datasets with shorter acquisition durations down to a minimum of 1 min/FOV (i.e., 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min/FOV data were formed from single 5 min/FOV acquisition). Fifty-six image volumes were generated, randomized, and reviewed in a masked manner with corresponding CT image volumes by 5 radiologists. Overall, subjective adequacy and objective lesion detection accuracy by body region were evaluated. Results: All examinations with maximum acquisition duration were graded as adequate and were used as the reference standard for detection accuracy. For patients less than 22 kg, 1 of the 3 PET/CT examinations was graded as inadequate for clinical tasks when acquisition duration was reduced to 2 min/FOV, and all examinations were graded as inadequate when reduced to 1 min/FOV. For patients more than 22 kg, all 3–5 min/FOV studies were graded as adequate, and 2 of the 9 studies were graded as inadequate for 2 min/FOV studies. Lesion detection accuracy was perfect for acquisition times between 3 min/FOV and 5 min/FOV for all regions of the body. However, lesion detection became less accurate when imaging acquisition time was reduced more than 40%. Conclusion: Evaluation of image volumes generated from simulated shorter acquisition durations suggests that imaging times for larger patients (>22 kg) can be reduced from 5 min/FOV to 3 min/FOV without a loss of diagnostic utility. Using decreased acquisition times as a surrogate for 18F-FDG dose, 18F-FDG dose can be reduced by approximately 40% when all patients were scanned for 5 min/FOV.
Effects of density dependence on diet composition of North American elk Cervus elaphus and mule deer Odocoileus hemionus: an experimental manipulation

We examined interactions related to resource partitioning and competition with density-dependent processes among mule deer Odocoileus hemionus and North American elk Cervus elaphus at two different population densities of elk. We used an experimental approach to examine changes in diet diversity, selection of diets, dietary importance, niche breadth and overlap among sympatric species of large herbivores with changes in population density of one species. We hypothesized that diets of both species would change with changing population density and dietary niche would be expanded to include forages of lower quality in the areas with increased competition for resources. We used microhistological analysis corrected for differential digestibility of forages to estimate diets of mule deer and elk from faeces in two study areas with high and low population densities of elk. For both mule deer and elk, dietary niche was expanded in the high-density area compared with the low-density area, and included forages of lower quality and palatability. Our results indicate that negative feedbacks associated with density-dependent processes interact with competitive interactions among sympatric species of large herbivores.
Effect of acculturation and distance from cardiac center on congenital heart disease mortality

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Despite improvements in congenital heart disease (CHD) survival over the past 4 decades, ethnic disparities persist. Several studies have shown higher postoperative CHD adjusted mortality in black and Hispanic children. Others noted that non–English-speaking language at home was associated with appointment noncompliance, which the parents attributed to misunderstanding and living too far from a health center. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of home distance to a cardiac center, or having a Latin American–born parent, on first-year mortality in infants with severe CHD. METHODS: Infants with severe CHD, having an estimated first-year mortality >25%, born 1996–2003, were identified from the Texas Birth Defects Registry and linked to state and national vital records. We examined the effects of defect type; birth weight; gestational age; extracardiac anomalies; infant gender; maternal race/ethnicity, marital status, and education; residence in a Texas county bordering Mexico; home distance to cardiac center; and parental birth country on first-year survival. RESULTS: Overall first-year survival was 59.9%, and no race/ethnic differences were noted; however, survival was significantly ( P < .05) lower for Hispanic infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Neither home distance to a cardiac center nor parental birth country was related to first-year survival; however, survival was noted to be lower in Texas counties bordering Mexico, counties that have high rates of poverty. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are needed to determine if these disparities in survival of infants with severe CHD are attributable to delays in referral to a cardiac center. * Abbreviations: CHD — : congenital heart disease HLHS — : hypoplastic left heart syndrome NH — : non-Hispanic PA-IVS — : pulmonary valve atresia and intact ventricular septum SV — : single ventricle
Novel multiphase optical nanodomains, metamaterials, and their role into molecular imaging, endocrinology, nanophotonics, and optical microfluidics

This paper reports new discoveries in the area of molecular optics and nanophotonics with potential applications in the areas of imaging, molecular imaging, endocrinology, optical microfluidics, and biomedical microdevices. The outcome of this study suggests that liquid multiphase macromolecules and liquid colloids give rise to the formation of molecular heterogeneous structures, and multiphase nanodomains, with enhanced index of refraction contrast, and pronounced metamaterial characteristics, which contribute significantly to the enhancement of interacting optical fields.
In Situ Characterization of the Pulsed Laser DepositIon of Magnetic Thin Films

Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) has been proven as an effective means of depositing films from refractory targets. In our earlier work, either Nd/YAG or excimer lasers, interacting directly with target surfaces, were used to deposit thin films of high Tc superconductors, high dielectric constant BaTiO3 and ferroelectric PbZr0.53Ti0.47O3 (PZT). Time-resolved molecular beam mass spectrometry and optical emission spectroscopic techniques have been developed to characterize the vapor plumes responsible for film formation. More recently, this work has been extended to the PLD of magnetic thin films of Ag-Fe3O4 nanocomposites using excimer (ArF*, 193 nm) laser excitation. Optical emission spectra of the excited vapor phase species, formed during the plume generation and material deposition process, indicate that physically compressed powdered metal targets have inadequate homogeneity for film production, compared to targets that are chemically produced. An in situ Laser-induced Vaporization Mass Spectrometry (LVMS) technique utilizing a Nd/YAG (1064 nm) laser has been used to determine Time of-Arrival (TOA) profiles of the atomic, molecular, and ionic species produced in the plumes of Ag-Fe3O4. The neutral species TOA profiles indicate velocity distributions that are multimodal and not Maxwellian. These observations are in contrast to the TOA profiles observed from one-component targets (Ag or Fe3O4), where a single Maxwellian velocity distribution is found. Mossbauer effect measurements of the thin films have been made for correlation with the gas phase studies.
Employer-Based Health Insurance In A Changing Work Force

Abstract: The loss of manufacturing jobs and the expansion of service jobs and part-time employment have contributed to a decline in the rate of employer-sponsored health insurance among workers. Not only does manufacturing provide more of its own workers with coverage compared with other industry groups, but it also is a significant net “exporter” of coverage to dependent workers in other industries. In 1991 the net export of coverage represented a 20 percent tax on manufacturing employers per covered worker, while professional services—the fastest-growing industry group—collected a subsidy from other industry groups equal to more than 12 percent per covered worker. Similarly, larger firms—those that employed 100 workers or more—paid a self-imposed tax of as much as 13 percent per covered worker to support dependent workers employed in smaller firms.
Update on the contralateral effect in rabbit and mouse models

While screening several anti-inflammatory gene products for efficacy in rabbit and murine models of RA by intra-articular adenoviral injection, a therapeutic effect was observed in both the treated and untreated contralateral joints. This contralateral effect was observed following adenoviral gene transfer of IL-1Ra, sIL-1 receptor, sTNF-receptor, vIL-10 and IL-4. Several different experiments suggested that the therapeutic effect may be due, in part, to the migration of a population of virally transduced antigen presenting cells (APC) from the treated joint to the regional lymph nodes and the untreated arthritic joints. Consistent with this model, we have demonstrated that direct intravenous injection of genetically modified DC expressing IL-4, FasL, IL-1Ra or CTLA4-Ig resulted in suppression or elimination of established collagen induced arthritis. However, intra-articular ex vivo delivery of retrovirus transduced syngeneic synoviocytes expressing anti-inflammatory factors conferred a similar therapeutic effect in treated as well as untreated contralateral joints. The results from our ex vivo and in vivo studies suggested that trafficking of vector-modified inflammatory cells may not be the main mechanism responsible for the observed contralateral effect. We now propose that local, intra-articular expression of anti-inflammatory factors may be able to modify the function of APCs that are then able to modulate the immune response in the contralateral joint. In support of this model, injection of APC treated with either recombinant IL-10 protein or infected with Ad.vIL-10 were able to block the DTH response in both the treated and untreated paws. We also have demonstrated that exosomes derived from Ad.vIL-10 infected APC were able to reduce the DTH response in both the treated and untreated paws. Taken together these results suggest that modified APC as well as APC derived-exosomes can confer a novel protective, anti-inflammatory effect in treated and untreated contralateral joints.
Effects of Winery Visitor Group Size on Gratitude and Obligation

Building on reciprocity theory, the current study explores whether wine tourists feel a need to buy wine at tasting rooms due to a perceived need to reciprocate for services received. In this research, wine and souvenirs bought fully or partly out of the desire to repay hospitality and services received are identified as gratuity purchasing. Specifically, the study investigates the role of gratitude and obligation in wine tourist purchasing behavior. The results indicate that the higher visitor feelings of gratitude and obligation while at a winery, the bigger the expenditures. In addition, the research examines the effect of visitor group size on purchasing. It appears that visitors who travel to wineries in smaller groups experience higher levels of gratitude and obligation than visitors of larger groups. Consequently, visitors who come to wineries in smaller groups tend to spend more money on wine and/or souvenirs than larger groups. Managerial implications are discussed.
Risk of Breast Cancer Classified by Joint Estrogen Receptor and Progesterone Receptor Status among Women 20–44 Years of Age

To gain insight into whether breast cancer tumors jointly classified by estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status represent diseases with differing etiologies, data from a population-based case-control study of US women 20-44 years of age were analyzed. Cases included 1,556 women diagnosed between 1990 and 1992. Age- and geographic-frequency-matched controls included 1,397 women identified by random digit dialing. Heterogeneity between ER+PR+ and ER-PR- tumors was most pronounced in relation to age, race, and recreational exercise at 12-13 years of age. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios for ER+PR+ tumors were 0.64 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.47, 0.89) for 30-34 versus 40-44 years of age, 0.89 (95% CI: 0.63, 1.25) for Black versus White race, and 0.84 (95% CI: 0.68, 1.03) for exercise at 12-13 years of age above versus at or below the median. Corresponding odds ratios for ER-PR- tumors were 1.24 (95% CI: 0.86, 1.77), 1.51 (95% CI: 1.07, 2.14), and 1.15 (95% CI: 0.90, 1.48). Risk of ER-PR- cancer in relation to menstrual and reproductive (parity and lactation) characteristics, alcohol consumption, and family history of breast cancer was similar to that observed for ER+PR+ tumors. These findings only modestly support the hypothesis that hormonally related risk factors have differing relations with ER+PR+ versus ER-PR- tumors among younger women.