cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Morphologic changes in the aorta of the diabetic Chinese hamster.

Light and electron microscopic observations of the thoracic aortas of hypercholesterolemic, diabetic Chinese hamsters compared with normocholesterolemic, nondiabetic matched controls revealed significant ultrastructural changes in the diabetic animals. Endothelial cells frequently contained osmiophilic lipid droplets. Smooth muscle cells were identified in the intima and the adjacent extracellular space of the intima contained abundant electron dense, amorphous material suggestive of elastin or fragmented internal elastic lamella. Calcium deposits were present in the media and surrounded by collagen fibers and pale, amorphous material consistent with ground substance. These changes were not observed in nondiabetic Chinese hamsters and may represent significant alterations that predispose the aorta to more extensive pathologic changes.
Effect of Dietary Tocopherol on the Oxidative Stability of Turkey Meat

Abstract The effects of dietary concentrations of dl-α-tocopheryl acetate and storage atmospheres on the oxidative stability of uncooked turkey carcass tissues were investigated. Eight hundred, one-day-old Nicholas white female turkey poults were raised to 16 weeks of age, randomly divided into 4 dietary groups for 3 weeks and assigned one of four pelletized diets containing either: A) 1.63 IU dl-α-tocopheryl acetate/kg of feed (Week 16 to 18); B) 1.63 IU (Week 16 to 17), 275 IU (Week 18); C) 55 IU (Week 16 to 18); or D) 275 IU (Week 16 to 18). All turkeys were processed at 19 weeks. Turkey breasts, thighs, skin, and subcutaneous fat and composites made up of these three tissues were evaluated for tocopherol levels shortly after processing (0 time) and TBA (2-thiobarbituric acid) numbers following refrigerated and frozen storage under N2 or air atmospheres. Composites were also evaluated by gas chromatographic headspace mediods at 0, 1, and 3 months of frozen storage. Tissue tocopherol levels and TBA numbers were significantly influenced by dietary tocopherol concentrations. As dietary levels increased, there were corresponding increases in tocopherol deposition for breast, thigh, and composite but not for skin and fat. Treatment (TMT) D turkey composites had mean tocopherol levels 3 to 3.3 times larger than TMT A tissues. Tocopherol levels were 100 to 600% higher in all treatments for thigh meat than breast or skin and fat. Overall TBA numbers were significantly affected by treatment and storage time but not storage atmosphere. Treatments B, C, and D composites, breasts, and thighs had TBA values significantly lower than TMT A. Furthermore, tocopherol tissue levels and TBA numbers were significantly correlated to the relative headspace volatile concentrations from heated turkey meat composites. It was concluded that tocopherol supplemented turkey diets are effective in reducing lipid oxidation during storage. Furthermore, headspace gas chromatography appears to be a potentially useful tool for determining oxidation in meat tissues.
Gene silencing indicates a role for potato endoglucanase inhibitor protein in germplasm resistance to late blight

Durable resistance to late blight is believed to be dependent on genes other than R genes. Reduced rates of lesion expansion, as found in the germplasm B 0767-2, can provide durable resistance by limiting tissue damage and reducing pathogen populations. We have tested the role of the proteinaceous xyloglucan-specific endoglucanase inhibitor (XEIP) in limiting late blight lesion expansion in B 0767-2. Plant material was silenced for the XEIP using localized infiltration ofAgrobacterium tumefaciens harboring pCAMBIA 1302 containing an antisense copy of XEIP. Plant cell transformations with this construct induced effective silencing as indicated by a reduction of up to 80% in XEIP transcript levels. Silencing of XEIP resulted in a marked increase in lesion size and water soaking, indicating that the inhibitor protein plays a role in limiting lesion expansion in B 0767-2.
Cytoplasmic vitamin A binding proteins in chick embryo dermis and epidermis.

Excess vitamin A has striking morphologic and developmental effects on chick embryo skin. While cytoplasmic retinoic acid-binding protein (CRABP) was known to be abundant in chick embryo skin, neither quantitative values nor the distribution between dermis and epidermis have been established. We determined CRABP levels in collagenase-separated dermis and epidermis from 8-day-old embryos using specific binding of all-trans-[11-3H] retinoic acid in cytosols prepared from gram quantities of these tissues. The level of CRABP in dermis was twice the level in epidermis whether calculated on the basis of wet weight, cytosol protein, or DNA. When averaged over many preparations, 3 times as much dermis as epidermis was recovered from a single piece of skin. Therefore, the dermis contained 85% of the extremely high CRABP levels found in collagenase-treated skin, while epidermis contributed only 15%. Cytoplasmic retinol binding protein (CRBP) was also detected in chick embryo skin, but the binding was low and the levels in epidermis and dermis were not significantly different. The amount of CRABP in chick embryo skin (1600 pmol/g wet weight or 100 pmol/mg cytosol protein) is the highest level reported in any tissue and suggests an important role for vitamin A in the normal development and maturation of skin.
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol is a partial agonist of cannabinoid receptors in mouse brain

We measured the ability of the cannabinoid agonists Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and R(+)-[2,3,-dihydro-5-methyl-3-[(morpholinyl)methyl]pyrrolo[1,2,3-de]-1,4-benzoxazin-yl]-(1-naphthalenyl) methanone mesylate (WIN 55,212-2) to stimulate guanosine-5′-O-(3-[35S]thio)triphosphate ([35S]GTPγS) binding in mouse brain membranes. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding by about 25% as compared to WIN 55,212-2. This is the first report demonstrating that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol acts as a partial agonist in stimulating [35S]GTPγS binding in the mouse brain.
Measurement of collisional anisotropic temperature relaxation in a strongly magnetized pure electron plasma.

The rate at which the temperatures parallel and perpendicular to a magnetic field relax to a common value has been measured in a pure electron plasma. This rate was measured over the temperature range 28 to ${10}^{4}$ K and for magnetic fields in the range 30 to 60 kG. When the cyclotron radius ${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{c}}$ is large compared to the classical distance of closest approach b, the measured rates are described by conventional scattering theory. When ${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{c}}$/b1, the measured rate drops precipitously as ${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{c}}$/b is decreased, in agreement with the adiabatic-invariant theory of O'Neil and Hjorth.
Initial detection of bacteremia by subculture of unvented tryptic soy broth blood culture bottles.

Routine subculture of macroscopically negative blood cultures is a traditional blood culture procedure. The need to perform routine early (6–17 hr) and late (48 hr) subculture of unvented blood culture bottles when a simultaneous subculture of the vented bottle is performed has been questioned. Blood cultures in paired vented and unvented tryptic soy broth (TSB) bottles from 4574 patients were examined retrospectively. Subculture of unvented TSB bottles provided initial detection of 412 (5.0%) isolates from 277 (6.1%) patients and was comparable to that of vented TSB bottles for Pseudomonas and all other microorganisms, except for the Enterobacteriaceae (p < 0.001; vented TSB), Candida (p < 0.001; vented TSB), and Haemophilusinfluenzae (p < 0.01; unvented TSB). Of the H. influenzae isolates, 46% were detected initially by subculture of the unvented TSB bottles; early subculture recovered 67% of these isolates. The value of subculture of unvented TSB bottles is minimized when subculture of the vented TSB bottle is routinely performed; however, routine subculture of the unvented bottle is recommended whenever TSB is used for detection of bacteremia in patients in whom H. influenzae infection is possible.
Non-myeloablative radioimmunotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Iodine 131–tositumomab and ibritumomab tiuxetan, radioimmunoconjugates that target the CD20 antigen, have been approved in the United States for use in relapsed or refractory, indolent, and transformed B-cell lymphomas. These well-tolerated agents have among the highest single-agent activity observed for these histologies. Furthermore, emerging data suggest a role for radioimmunotherapy (RIT) as upfront therapy of indolent lymphoma, with expanding utility in the treatment of more aggressive histologies. This review will summarize the key trials that led to approval of both 131 I-tositumomab and ibritumomab tiuxetan, discuss recent publications on re-treatment and therapy of de novo indolent lymphoma and aggressive histologies, and conclude with new topics in RIT.
Generation of high flux attosecond pulses with phase-matched Double Optical Gating

Generalized Double Optical Gating is an effective scheme for generating single isolated attosecond pulses with multi-cycle driving lasers. It is to be implemented using a >100 mJ Ti:Sapphire laser to upscale the attosecond photon flux.
Convergent and divergent validity of the Gordon Diagnostic System in adults

The present study examined the convergent and divergent validity of the Gordon Diagnostic System (GDS) as a measure of attention in adults by examining correlations between GDS scores and scores on other attentional and non-attentional measures in 77 veterans (4 women and 73 men) referred for neuropsychological evaluation. Scores on the GDS were neither significantly correlated with scores on other attentional nor non-attentional measures. Participants were then divided into two groups, those who scored lower (<1S.D. below the published normative mean) and higher on the GDS for the Vigilance and Distractibility tasks separately. Participants with lower GDS scores on the Vigilance task performed more poorly on the Trailmaking Test, Part B than those with higher GDS scores. There were no other group differences on tests of attentional or non-attentional functions. These results do not provide strong support for the convergent and divergent validity of the GDS as a measure of attention in adults.
Effects of an Applied Field on the Structure of Finite Polyenes

We investigate the effect of an applied field, the internal molecular field produced by donor−acceptor groups, as well that of an effective field by the environment, on the electronic properties and geometric structure of substituted polyenes of finite length. We use analytically tractable methods to study (a) the effect of static field on the bond length alternation (BLA) of finite polyene rings and (b) the effect of static field on even and odd open chains. We find that the field drives the rings to lower BLA and that odd chains in a static field can show reversal of BLA through the equal bond length limit.
Elevated concentrations of cross-linked fibrin degradation products in plasma. An early marker of gram-negative bacteremia.

Purpose: Because coagulant and fibrinolytic activity are increased by endotoxin, we hypothesized that concentrations of cross-linked fibrin degradation products, sensitive markers of plasmin activity, would be increased in patients with Gram-negative bacteremia. Patients and methods: Cross-linked fibrin degradation products were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on a monoclonal antibody specific for cross-linked fibrin degradation products, and with a novel, semiquantitative hemagglutination assay based on the same antibody coupled to FAB’ fragments from a monoclonal antibody against a universal red blood cell antigen. Blood samples were obtained from 100 consecutive emergency department patients evaluated for sepsis. Results: Blood cultures were positive in 21 percent of the patients, 75 percent (12/21) with Gram-negative organisms. Elevations of cross-linked fibrin degradation products (normal Conclusion : Elevation of cross-linked fibrin degradation products consistent with increased fibrinolytic activity occurs in all patients with Gram-negative bacteremia. Accordingly, the lack of elevation may be clinically useful in identifying patients less likely to have Gram-negative bacteremia.
Relationship of change in traditional cardiometabolic risk factors to change in coronary artery calcification among individuals with detectable subclinical atherosclerosis: The multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis

Background/Objectives Data describing relationships between change in risk factors and coronary artery calcification (CAC) are lacking and could inform optimal cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment strategies. This study aimed to examine how change in traditional cardiometabolic risk factors related to change in CAC among individuals with detectable subclinical atherosclerosis.
Effect of suction and weak mass injection on boundary-layer transition

The effects of normal mass injection and suction on boundary-layer stability and transition are studied on a flat plate. Titanium panels, in which 0.063mm diameter holes were drilled on 0.635 mm centres, are inserted in the plate. Suction level and distribution are variable. Disturbances are introduced by means of a vibration ribbon and measurements of both mean and disturbance-flow velocities are made with a hot wire. Disturbance amplitudes are measured as a function of Reynolds number, frequency, and suction characteristics, and are compared with the previous results obtained over a Dynapore surface. Transition measurements under natural and forced conditions are also made. The stabilising effects of suction are documented. It is also shown that very high local flow rates through the suction holes (which approach a hole Reynolds number of 300) do not destabilise the flow. On the other hand, weak blowing lowers the transition Reynolds number, but is found not to cause serious problems.
Coordination of Meiotic Recombination, Pairing, and Synapsis by PHS1

Pairing, synapsis, and recombination are prerequisites for accurate chromosome segregation in meiosis. The phs1 gene in maize is required for pairing to occur between homologous chromosomes. In the phs1 mutant, homologous chromosome synapsis is completely replaced by synapsis between nonhomologous partners. The phs1 gene is also required for installation of the meiotic recombination machinery on chromosomes, as the mutant almost completely lacks chromosomal foci of the recombination protein RAD51. Thus, in the phs1 mutant, synapsis is uncoupled from recombination and pairing. The protein encoded by the phs1 gene likely acts in a multistep process to coordinate pairing, recombination, and synapsis.
The Forcing of Gravitational Normal Modes by Condensational Heating

Abstract Time series of normal mode coefficients were determined by projection of data produced at every time step for 64 days of a long climate simulation with the NCAR Community Climate Model. Harmonic dials and power spectra for selected gravitational modes were examined. One result is that the greatest power for gravitational modes is typically at the longest periods examined, but noteworthy relative maxima also occur near a mode's resonant period and corresponding time-computational period. For most naturally fast modes, the power at long periods tends to be many times greater than the power near the resonant period, implying that the behavior of these modes may be characterized as approximately balanced. For naturally slow modes, such as Kelvin modes, however, the portion of power near the mode's resonant period is often nonnegligible, implying that these modes are characterized by quasi-linear, wavelike propagation, rather than by either diabatic or adiabatic balance behavior. For the same simulate...
Gustilo grade IIIB tibial fractures requiring microvascular free flaps: external fixation versus intramedullary rod fixation.

Background:Gustilo IIIB fractures involve high-energy tibial fractures for which there is inadequate soft tissue coverage. In addition to orthopedic fixation, these injuries require soft tissue reconstruction, often in the form of a microvascular free flap. Although the majority of orthopedic litera
The effect of oxygen atoms on the vibrational relaxation of oxygen

The vibrational relaxation of oxygen in the presence of oxygen atoms generated by the thermal decomposition of ozone has been studied in shock waves over the temperature range 1600°–3300°K. Relaxation of the oxygen was followed densitometrically with the laser schlieren technique. The presence of small quantities of oxygen atoms has a pronounced effect on oxygen relaxation. Detailed analysis of the data results in the simple expression PτO2−O=(4.35±0.19)×10−8−(7.75±0.81)×10−12 T atm·sec for the relaxation time of oxygen dilute in an atmosphere of oxygen atom. It is concluded that this system provides an unambiguous example of a strong chemical effect.
Distinguishing lower and upper crustal processes in magmas erupted during the buildup to the 7.7 ka climactic eruption of Mount Mazama, Crater Lake, Oregon, using 238 U– 230 Th disequilibria

Uranium-series isotope ratios determined for 35 volcanic rocks and 4 glass separates erupted from ~36 to 4.8 ka at Mt. Mazama, Crater Lake, Oregon, identify both 230Th-excess and 238U-excess components. U–Th isotope compositions cover a wide range, exceeding those previously measured for the Cascade arc. Age-corrected (230Th/232Th) and (238U/232Th) activity ratios range from 1.113 to 1.464 and from 0.878 to 1.572 (44.4 % 230Th-excess to 8.8 % 238U-excess), respectively. The most distinctive aspect of the data set is the contrast in U–Th isotope ratios between low and high Sr (LSr, HSr) components that have been previously identified in products of the 7.7 ka caldera-forming climactic eruption and preclimactic rhyodacite lavas. The LSr component exclusively contains 238U-excess, but the HSr component, as well as more primitive lavas, are marked by 230Th-excess. 230Th-excesses such as those recorded at Mt. Mazama are commonly observed in the Cascades. Melting models suggest that high 230Th-excesses observed in the more primitive lavas evolved through mixing of a mantle melt with a partial melt of a mafic lower crustal composition that contained garnet in the residuum that was produced through dehydration melting of amphibolite that was initially garnet free. Dehydration melting in the lower crust offers a solution to the “hot-slab paradox” of the Cascades, where low volatile contents are predicted due to high slab temperatures, yet higher water contents than expected have been documented in erupted lavas. The 238U-excess observed at Mt. Mazama is rare in Cascade lavas, but occurs in more than half of the samples analyzed in this study. Traditionally, 238U-excess in arc magmas is interpreted to reflect slab fluid fluxing. Indeed, 238U-excess in arcs is common and likely masks 230Th-excess resulting from lower crustal interaction. Isotopic and trace element data, however, suggest a relatively minor role for slab fluid fluxing in the Cascades. We propose that 238U-excess reflects melting and assimilation of young, hydrothermally altered upper crust. The processes related to generating 238U-excess are likely important features at Mt. Mazama that accompanied development of a large-scale silicic magma chamber that led to the caldera-forming eruption.
Model Predictive Control of Data Centers in the Smart Grid Scenario

Abstract This paper discusses the challenges and the possibilities offered by controlling a data center as a node of the smart-grid. Communication between the grid and a data center takes the form of a time-varying and power-consumption-dependent electricity price. A cyber-physical approach is considered. The computational and the physical characteristics of a data center, as well as the interactions between the two aspects, are explicitly represented. Simulation results show that the proposed control approach can lead to larger income for data center operators than other approaches that do not consider the interactions between the cyber and the physical subsystems.
Optical Constants of Metals in the Extreme Ultraviolet. I. A Modified Critical-Angle Technique for Measuring the Index of Refraction of Metals in the Extreme Ultraviolet*

A simple method for measuring the index of refraction, n, of substances that have an index less than unity and a very small extinction coefficient has been developed. It is similar to the usual critical-angle method which measures the index by direct location of the critical angle. The presence of a small amount of absorption makes direct location of the critical angle impossible since it erases the discontinuity in the slope of the reflectance vs angle of incidence curve, on which the critical angle method depends. The angle at which the slope of the curve is a maximum very nearly equals the critical angle, however, so that instead of determining n from the position of a discontinuity in the slope of the reflectance vs angle of incidence curve, it may be obtained from the angle of maximum slope. Four sources of error, which cause the position of maximum slope to shift away from the critical angle, are: large values of k; the presence of an absorbing layer, such as an oxide; interference effects that may be present if the sample to be studied is in the form of a layer on a substrate; and polarization of the incident radiation. The magnitude of the errors arising from these effects are discussed and the method is compared with an interference method for measuring n.
A Multisensor satellite-based assessment of biomass burning aerosol radiative impact over Amazonia

[1] Using spatially and temporally collocated multispectral, multiangle and broadband data sets from the Terra satellite, the role of biomass burning (BB) smoke particles on cloud-free top of atmosphere (TOA) direct shortwave aerosol radiative forcing (SWARF) is examined. A 5-year analysis during the peak biomass burning months of August and September is presented over South America (0°–20°S and 45°W–65°W). Our results indicate that over 5 years, the TOA diurnally averaged SWARF (DSWARF) from the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) scanner ranges between −5.2 Wm−2 and −9.4 Wm−2 with a mean value of −7.6 Wm−2 and an estimated uncertainty of ±1.4 Wm−2. The corresponding Multi Angle Spectroradiometer (MISR) aerosol optical thickness (AOT at 0.558 μm) ranged from 0.15 to 0.36 with a mean value of 0.24. The estimated mean TOA aerosol radiative forcing efficiency (Eτ) is −44.2 Wm−2τ−1 and is in good agreement with previous studies. We also examined the beta versions of the MISR data products such as the angstrom exponent (AE) and fraction of AOT in different size bins to assess the role of BB aerosol particle properties on SWARF. Our analysis indicates that the MISR retrieved 5 year mean AE is 1.54. Contribution to total AOT from small, medium and large particles is 66%, 16% and 18% respectively. This is the first multiyear assessment of SWARF for biomass burning aerosol particles using satellite observations alone and should serve as a useful constraint for numerical modeling simulations that estimate SWARF.
Diffusion or imperfection modified long range interaction between a line dislocation and a spherical inclusion

Abstract This paper addresses some aspects of the 3D elastic problem of a line dislocation interacting with a spherical inclusion particle. Specifically, the effects of imperfect interface bonding and diffusional relaxations on the long range dislocation-particle interaction are examined in some detail. It is known from the classical dislocation-particle analysis that a dislocation is repelled from a second phase particle if the shear modulus of the particle is higher than that of the matrix. However, when interface elastic boundary conditions are modified by imperfect interface bonding or diffusional relaxations, this interaction may be completely changed. Diffusion over length scales comparable to the width of the interface leads to a viscous-like relaxation of the shear tractions along the interface. Given enough time for diffusion to occur over distances of order of the inclusion radius, the normal traction gradient along the inclusion/matrix interface may also be completely relaxed. Particles or fibers with a flexible, thin layer of coating present another example of imperfect interface conditions. Closed form solutions are derived for the long range interaction between a line dislocation and a spherical inclusion with “imperfect” interface in the sense that the normal and shear tractions along the interface are taken to be proportional to the corresponding displacement discontinuities. A unique constant dependent on the properties of the interface and the elastic mismatch between the particle and the matrix is identified as the control parameter for the long range dislocation-particle interaction. The effects of diffusional relaxations are studied via solutions in the limit that both the shear traction and normal stress gradient along the interface have been completely eliminated. In that case, it is seen that screw dislocations and edge dislocations in glide orientation with respect to the particle are always attracted toward the particle while edge dislocations in climb orientation with respect to the particle are repelled from the particle.
Piezoelectric wind energy harvester for low-power sensors

There has been increasing interest in wireless sensor networks for a variety of outdoor applications including structural health monitoring and environmental monitoring. Replacement of batteries that power the nodes in these networks is maintenance intensive. A wind energy–harvesting device is proposed as an alternate power source for these wireless sensor nodes. The device is based on the galloping of a bar with triangular cross section attached to a cantilever beam. Piezoelectric sheets bonded to the beam convert the mechanical energy into electrical energy. A prototype device of size approximately 160 × 250 mm was fabricated and tested over a range of operating conditions in a wind tunnel, and the power dissipated across a load resistance was measured. A maximum power output of 53 mW was measured at a wind velocity of 11.6 mph. An analytical model incorporating the coupled electromechanical behavior of the piezoelectric sheets and quasi-steady aerodynamics was developed. The model showed good correlati...
Mechanical properties of intermetallic inclusions in Al 7075 alloys by micropillar compression

Abstract The constituent particles (also called inclusions) play an important role in the deformation behavior of Al 7075 alloys. The majority of inclusions in Al 7075 alloys can be classified as Fe-bearing and Si-bearing inclusions. Among them Al7Cu2Fe and Mg2Si are predominant. In this study, the mechanical properties of these inclusions and Al 7075 matrix were studied using micropillar compression testing. Micropillars were fabricated by focused ion beam (FIB) milling and were tested using a nanoindenter equipped with a flat tip. For the first time, the stress–strain behavior of these intermetallic particles was obtained experimentally, resulting in the measurement of the compressive failure and yield strength. The stress–strain behavior obtained from pillar compression show that both inclusions possess higher strength than the Al 7075 matrix.
Abstract 4622: Targeting MYCN in Neuroblastoma by BET Bromodomain Inhibition.

Bromodomain inhibition comprises a promising therapeutic strategy in cancer, particularly for hematologic malignancies. To date, however, genomic biomarkers to direct clinical translation have been lacking. We conducted a cell-based screen of genetically-defined cancer cell lines using a prototypical inhibitor of BET (bromodomain and extra-terminal domain) bromodomains. Integration of genetic features with chemosensitivity data revealed a robust correlation between MYCN amplification and sensitivity to bromodomain inhibition. We characterized the mechanistic and translational significance of this finding in neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer with frequent amplification of MYCN. Genome-wide expression analysis demonstrated downregulation of the MYCN transcriptional program accompanied by suppression of MYCN transcription, and a BET Bromodomain inhibitor was found to displace BRD4 from the MYCN promoter region in neuroblastoma cell lines. Functionally, bromodomain-mediated inhibition of MYCN impaired growth and induced apoptosis in neuroblastoma. BRD4 knock-down phenocopied these effects, establishing BET bromodomains as transcriptional regulators of MYCN. BET inhibition conferred a significant survival advantage in three in vivo neuroblastoma models, providing a compelling rationale for developing BET bromodomain inhibitors in patients with neuroblastoma. Citation Format: Alexandre Puissant, Stacey M. Frumm, Gabriela Alexe, Christopher F. Bassil, Jun Qi, Yvan H. Chanthery, Erin A. Nekritz, Rhamy Zeid, W. Clay Gustafson, Patricia Greninger, Matthew J. Garnett, Ultan McDermott, Cyril H. Benes, Andrew L. Kung, William A. Weiss, James E. Bradner, Kimberly Stegmaier. Targeting MYCN in Neuroblastoma by BET Bromodomain Inhibition. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4622. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4622
The effects of computerized performance monitoring: An ethical perspective

Considerable controversy has surrounded the use of computerized performance monitoring (CPM) by employers. Critics of this technology contend that CPM usage raises serious ethical concerns. Beliefs that the use of computerized performance monitors results in unfair performance evaluation, stress and health problems underlie much of the current concern over this technology. A field study was undertaken to provide empirical evidence that could be used to guide the design and use of computerized performance monitors to minimize these problems. One hundred forty three members of the Communication Workers of America participated in a cross sectional field study. The study examined the relationship between various monitoring system characteristics and employees' health problems, stress and satisfaction with the performance evaluation process. The ethical implications of the results are discussed.
Analytic Considerations in Distance Education Research.

Abstract All articles submitted to The American Journal of Distance Education are subjected to a multi‐stage review process. One of the stages of review is an evaluation of methodology, including the appropriateness of any analytic procedures that are used. For this article, a number of empirical research reports submitted over the past several years were reviewed to identify common analytic problems and errors often overlooked by distance education researchers.
Robust Trajectory Planning for Autonomous Parafoils under Wind Uncertainty

A key challenge facing modern airborne delivery systems, such as parafoils, is the ability to accurately and consistently deliver supplies into difficult, complex terrain. Robustness is a primary concern, given that environmental wind disturbances are often highly uncertain and time-varying, coupled with under-actuated dynamics and potentially narrow drop zones. This paper presents a new on-line trajectory planning algorithm that enables a large, autonomous parafoil to robustly execute collision avoidance and precision landing on mapped terrain, even with significant wind uncertainties. This algorithm is designed to handle arbitrary initial altitudes, approach geometries, and terrain surfaces, and is robust to wind disturbances which may be highly dynamic throughout the terminal approach. Explicit, real-time wind modeling and classification is used to anticipate future disturbances, while a novel uncertainty-sampling technique ensures that robustness to possible future variation is efficiently maintained. The designed cost-to-go function enables selection of partial paths which intelligently trade off between current and reachable future states. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm reduces the worst-case impact of wind disturbances relative to state-of-the-art approaches.
Democracy amid economic orthodoxy: Trends in developing countries

The creation of stable democracies requires a resolution of both political and class problems. The political task involves the development of appropriate institutions so that democratic norms and practices take hold in a society. Dealing with the class conundrum, in turn, demands creating acceptable political arrangements that enable democratic equality to coexist with an economic system based on class inequalities. The simultaneous pursuit of these political and class goals is a delicate task of social engineering; it has never been easy. After all, the aim of establishing democracy is to give the mass citizenry some genuine access to power, while at the same time ensuring that this access does not go so far as to threaten the smooth functioning of a class economy. The twin tasks of expanding and limiting political participation were historically facilitated by proto-democratic traditions and by the slow and steady rise of hegemonic capitalism. Traditions of compromise politics enabled excluded groups to steadily press for an expansion of the political sphere. Conversely, as markets discipline firms, rising capitalism tamed these demands by setting boundaries on the evolution of such political institutions as labour unions, parties, parliaments, bureaucracies, judiciaries and constitutions. Political institutions thus came to act as filtering mechanisms between the state and society, filtering in some mass social demands as legitimate objects of political negotiation, and filtering out other demands as beyond the legitimate scope of the polity, especially those that may hurt capitalism. While the trial and error process of institutional development was seldom smooth, and often discontinuous, all well functioning capitalist democracies came to be endowed with political institutions capable of simultaneously expressing and regulating the impact of popular demands. By contrast, developing country democracies, especially new democracies, tend to be volatile because of poorly formed political institutions. Not only do institutions take time to develop, but the state-society configurations in these countries do not readily facilitate institution building: full adult suffrage has arrived in these countries before democracy and capitalism have become widely accepted, generating an outpouring of a wide variety of demands; developed capitalism is as much a political goal of the state, as it is an evolving economic system, openly implicating the state as less than a neutral agent of public good; and, at least over the last decade, international pressures and new middle class elites within these countries have colluded to pursue highly inegalitarian economic strategies in the name of market-rationality, further contributing
Variables Affecting the Fixation of Tibial Components

Laboratory tests were carried out on some of the variables which might affect the fixation of tibial components. The type of component with a flat upper surface and a central peg was considered. These variables were the rigidity of the upper plate, the area of surface coverage on the bone and the thickness of the cement. The strains in the cement around the peg, and the component-bone deflections were measured. For plastic, the upper plate rigidity and cement thickness made little difference, but an all-metal component reduced peg and cement strains. Complete surface coverage reduced bone-component deflections considerably. Implications to design are discussed
WE-G-18C-09: Separating Perfusion and Diffusion Components From Diffusion Weighted MRI of Rectum Tumors Based On Intravoxel Incoherent Motion (IVIM) Analysis

Purpose: Pseudodiffusion arises from the microcirculation of blood in the randomly oriented capillary network and contributes to the signal decay acquired using a multi-b value diffusion weighted (DW)-MRI sequence. This effect is more significant at low b-values and should be properly accounted for in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) calculations. The purpose of this study was to separate perfusion and diffusion component based on a biexponential and a segmented monoexponential model using IVIM analysis Methods. The signal attenuation is modeled as S(b) = S0[(1−f)exp(−bD) + fexp(−bD*)]. Fitting the biexponetial decay leads to the quantification of D, the true diffusion coefficient, D*, the pseudodiffusion coefficient, and f, the perfusion fraction. A nonlinear least squares fit and two segmented monoexponential models were used to derive the values for D, D*,‘and f. In the segmented approach b = 200 s/mm{sup 2} was used as the cut-off value for calculation of D. DW-MRI's of a rectum cancer patient were acquired before chemotherapy, before radiation therapy (RT), and 4 weeks into RT and were investigated as an example case. Results: Mean ADC for the tumor drawn on the DWI cases was 0.93, 1.0 and 1.13 10{sup −3}×mm{sup 2}/s before chemotherapy, before RT and 4 weeks intomore » RT. The mean (D.10{sup −3} × mm{sup 2}/s, D* 10{sup −3} × mm{sup 2}/s, and f %) based on biexponential fit was (0.67, 18.6, and 27.2%), (0.72, 17.7, and 28.9%) and (0.83,15.1, and 30.7%) at these time points. The mean (D, D* f) based on segmented fit was (0.72, 10.5, and 12.1%), (0.72, 8.2, and 17.4%) and (.82, 8.1, 16.5%) Conclusion: ADC values are typically higher than true diffusion coefficients. For tumors with significant perfusion effect, ADC should be analyzed at higher b-values or separated from the perfusion component. Biexponential fit overestimates the perfusion fraction because of increased sensitivity to noise at low b-values.« less
Radical cystectomy: The minimally invasive approach

s l e c e s t n a m The laparoscopic approach to genitourinary oncology as made great progress in the past 10 years. Initially, aparoscopy was limited to procedures that were either simle or essentially ablative, such as radical nephrectomy, adical nephroureterectomy, and adrenalectomy. As experince and instrumentation improved, urologic reconstructive rocedures, such as pyeloplasty, became feasible. More ecently, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, which incororates both extirpative and reconstructive techniques, has een incorporated into practice at medical centers worldide. Although laparoscopic radical prostatectomy has gained ignificant acclaim in both the medical and lay press, lapaoscopic radical cystectomy with urinary diversion has not eceived nearly as much attention. This could easily be a esult of the much higher incidence of prostate cancer comared to muscle-invasive bladder cancer. However, a strong ase can be made for laparoscopic radical cystectomy with rinary diversion as the recommended initial foray into the omplexities of laparoscopic urologic pelvic surgery. The general benefits of laparoscopic surgery versus an pen approach have been well documented in a variety of urgeries at a number of different institutions. These benets include decreased blood loss and decreased postoperaive pain, with consequent earlier return to normal activities. n underappreciated aspect of laparoscopic surgery is the ecrease in insensible fluid losses, which is a direct result of he closed abdominal cavity. Studies have shown greater elative benefit of laparoscopic surgery in patients who are t increased risk for peri-operative morbidity, including the lderly and the obese. Clearly, these are all important intraperative and postoperative aspects to consider in patients ho are undergoing radical cystectomy with urinary diverion. The patient population with muscle-invasive bladder ancer is often elderly (peak incidence in 7 decade) and onsequently often has co-morbid disease. In the best of
Poduction of Sulfur Compounds in Skimmilk Heated by Direct Steam Injection

Summary The effects of direct steam injection heating on the development of heat-activated sulfur compounds in skimmilk were studied over a temperature and time range of 190 to 300 F and 2 to 150 sec. The heat activation of sulfhydryl groups, as measured by silver titration, followed a direct relationship to heating-temperatures in those samples held for 2 sec. At 20 and 150 sec, maximum responses to temperature were observed followed by a decrease, when vacuum cooling was used, as the temperature of heating increased. It was determined that much of the decrease in titration values above the critical treatment resulted from volatilization of sulfur compounds.
Reversible compression of industrial radiographs using multiresolution decorrelation

An improved method for the reversible compression of industrial radiographs is described. The method uses one of the multiresolution decorrelation techniques, viz., hierarchical interpolation (HINT), to decorrelate a given image. However, instead of encoding the decorrelated image pixels at each resolution level using a memoryless source as in the traditional HINT method, a statistical source model with multiple contexts is employed and the pixels are encoded using the appropriate contextual statistics. Experiments on industrial x-ray images show that the improved method achieves about 19% more compression on the average than the traditional method.
An alternate view on the sign convention for raman optical activity

Abstract Arguments are presented for the left minus right sign convention for Raman optical activity based primarily on the importance of consistency with related forms of optical activity.
Site-specific mutagenesis by error-directed DNA synthesis

An important experimental strategy for defining functional regions of a DNA sequence involves deleting or mutating particular sequences in vitro and observing the effects of the changes in a functional assay. We have approached the problem of making specific changes at defined sites in a nucleotide sequence by attempting to make use of the mistakes made by DNA polymerase enzymes while copying a sequence. Our approach is to initiate DNA synthesis from an isolated restriction fragment, and to elongate the fragment to a designated position by sequentially adding complementary nucleotides, then to incorporate the non-complementary nucleotide using an error-prone DNA polymerase followed by continuation of faithful synthesis. Here we demonstrate by DNA sequence analysis that both transitions and transversions can be produced at a designated position on the DNA template using this method.
An Improved Decomposition Framework for Accelerating LSF and BD Based Methods for Network-Constrained UC Problems

This paper presents an improved decomposition framework to accelerate the convergence of linear sensitivity factor (LSF) and Benders decomposition (BD) based methods for network-constrained unit commitment (NCUC) problems. Classical LSF and BD methods solve NCUC problems by an iterative procedure between a master UC problem and transmission network evaluation subproblems. Subproblems evaluate the transmission network security of a master UC solution, and feedback violated network constraints or Benders feasibility cuts to the UC problem for seeking a feasible UC solution that could mitigate transmission violations. However, classical methods often converge very slowly and introduce major computational bottlenecks. This paper presents an improved decomposition framework by embedding network evaluation subproblems into the branch-and-bound (BAB)/branch-and-cut (BAC) procedure of the master UC problem. Thus, instead of iteratively solving the UC master problem and network evaluation subproblems, the NCUC problem is solved in one single integrated procedure by performing network evaluations at each BAB/BAC node. The proposed methods reduce the number of BAB/BAC nodes to be solved in the UC problem at the cost of additional network evaluations. Numerical tests demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed decomposition framework. The benefit of the proposed decomposition framework would be significant when a system is heavily congested and a large number of iterations is expected for the classical methods. The proposed decomposition strategy can be extended to other applications for solving large-scale optimization problems in power systems operation, maintenance, and planning.
PRAXIS AND ACTION: CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHIES OF HUMAN ACTIVITY. Richard J. Bernstein

(1974). PRAXIS AND ACTION: CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHIES OF HUMAN ACTIVITY. Richard J. Bernstein. The Philosophy Forum: Vol. 14, No. 2, pp. 171-186.
An Improved Method for the Purification of Bacillus Subtilis Glucose Dehydrogenase Cloned in Escherichia Coli

An improved and simplified purification procedure has been developed for the isolation of the Bacillus subtilis glucose dehydrogenase which has resulted in a 10 fold higher yield of pure enzyme. The purification procedure utilizes gene cloning and an additional ammonium sulfate step to facilitate the removal of contaminating proteins. The procedure requires fewer chromatographic steps than previously reported, thus simplifying the procedure. This improved and simplified purification of B. subtilis glucose dehydrogenase will facilitate further structure-function studies of this sporulation specific enzyme.
Independent voices, social insight, and action: An analysis of a social action project

Abstract Social action projects provide opportunities for students to practice civic skills by learning about pressing social issues and taking action to address them. So to explore the texture of such projects, this paper illustrates how the pedagogy guiding them can support students to experience their agency as individuals, develop their knowledge of their broader social contexts, and provide opportunities for action. While the value of a relationship between individual agency, social knowledge, and action are richly described in theoretical texts, this paper shows how such principles are extended in one social action project that unfolded in an eighth grade class. Through the use of qualitative methods, I documented and analyzed the project. I share my analysis so to bring teachers and students' lived experiences with social action projects to light. The paper concludes with recommendations for educators when envisioning and enacting social action projects.
Air-Interface Cultures of Guinea Pig Airway Epithelial Cells: Effects of Active Sodium and Chloride Transport Inhibitors on Bioelectric Properties

To systematically study airway epithelial barrier properties and active ion transport processes during challenge to environmental toxicants, in vitro models that closely resemble airway epithelium in vivo are required. Guinea pig tracheobronchial epithelial (GPTE) cells cultured in an air interface form a tight, confluent monolayer, which may be a more suitable model for the studies of the airway epithelial barrier in vivo. In the present study, bioelectric properties of such GPTE cell monolayers were characterized with the use of pharmacological agents. Treatment of the basolateral side with ouabain completely abolished the short-circuit current (SCC), while apical addition had little effect. Apical addition of amiloride abolished 75% of the SCC, while basal addition had little effect. Treatment of the basolateral side with furosemide or bumetanide reduced the SCC by 20%, while apical addition had no effect. Apical or basolateral terbutaline increased SCC threefold with identical time courses; results with furosemide suggest a preferential stimulation of Cl- secretion. In contrast to GPTE monolayers, canine tracheal epithelial monolayers, under short-circuit conditions, primarily secrete Cl-, possibly due to apparent species differences. The predominance of Na+ reabsorption suggests that GPTE monolayers cultured in an air interface may share similar transport properties to human airway epithelium.