cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An affinity matured minibody for PET imaging of prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA)-expressing tumors

Prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA), a cell surface glycoprotein expressed in normal human prostate and bladder, is over-expressed in the majority of localized prostate cancer and most bone metastases. We have previously shown that the hu1G8 minibody, a humanized anti-PSCA antibody fragment (single-chain Fv-CH3 dimer, 80 kDa), can localize specifically and image PSCA-expressing xenografts at 21 h post-injection. However, the humanization and antibody fragment reformatting decreased its apparent affinity. Here, we sought to evaluate PET imaging contrast with affinity matured minibodies. Yeast scFv display, involving four rounds of selection, was used to generate the three affinity matured antibody fragments (A2, A11, and C5) that were reformatted into minibodies. These three affinity matured anti-PSCA minibodies were characterized in vitro, and following radiolabeling with 124I were evaluated in vivo for microPET imaging of PSCA-expressing tumors. The A2, A11, and C5 minibody variants all demonstrated improved affinity compared to the parental (P) minibody and were ranked as follows: A2 > A11 > C5 > P. The 124I-labeled A11 minibody demonstrated higher immunoreactivity than the parental minibody and also achieved the best microPET imaging contrast in two xenograft models, LAPC-9 (prostate cancer) and Capan-1 (pancreatic cancer), when evaluated in vivo. Of the affinity variant minibodies tested, the A11 minibody that ranked second in affinity was selected as the best immunoPET tracer to image PSCA-expressing xenografts. This candidate is currently under development for evaluation in a pilot clinical imaging study.
Effect of Boron on the Elevated-Temperature Tensile and Creep Behavior of Cast Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si (Weight Percent)

This work investigated the effect of nominal boron additions of 0.1, 0.4, and 1 wt pct on the intermediate-temperature (455 °C to 565 °C) tensile and tensile-creep deformation behavior of as-cast Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si (wt pct) for applied stresses between 138 and 600 MPa. A 0.1 wt pct boron addition resulted in a refinement of the as-cast grain size from 550 to 75 μm. Additional boron additions resulted in a less dramatic refinement of the as-cast grain size. Boron additions stabilized the orthorhombic TiB phase where the average TiB-phase volume percents were 0.7, 2.3, and 5.4 for the Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si-0.1B (wt pct), Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si-0.4B (wt pct), and Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si-1B (wt pct) alloys, respectively. Overall, the boron additions did not have a dramatic effect on the creep behavior of Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si, though the Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si-1B (wt pct) alloy exhibited lower minimum creep rates than the baseline Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo-0.1Si (wt pct) alloy. The sequence of surface deformation events during the elevated-temperature tensile deformation was characterized using in-situ experiments performed inside a scanning electron microscope. The TiB whisker microcracking occurred at stresses well below the global yield stress. Multiple and extensive TiB cracking occurred after global yielding. The α + β phase slip occurred after TiB whisker cracking.
Photoemission from Xe in the vicinity of the 4d Cooper minimum

Partial photoionization cross sections and angular-distribution asymmetry parameters have been determined for the Xe 4d and ``4p'' subshells in the photon-energy region of the 4d Cooper minimum (160 eV to 270 eV, to 520 eV for the 4d asymmetry parameter). The Cooper minimum is observed as a distinct cross-section minimum in the 4d photoionization channel. The 4d angular-distribution results are in excellent agreement with Dirac-Fock and relativistic random-phase-approximation calculations and with previous measurements. Effects of interchannel coupling are evident in the ``4p'' results. Both the partial cross section and the angular distribution for the ``4p'' photoelectron peak track the 4d cross section and angular distribution as functions of photon energy. A similar result is observed for the summed intensity and the angular distribution of the 4${d}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$5${p}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$np satellites of the 4d main line, which is probably due to the effects of electron correlation between the 4d and the satellite photoionization channels.
Neural Effects of Positive and Negative Incentives during Marijuana Withdrawal

In spite of evidence suggesting two possible mechanisms related to drug-seeking behavior, namely reward-seeking and harm avoidance, much of the addiction literature has focused largely on positive incentivization mechanisms associated with addiction. In this study, we examined the contributing neural mechanisms of avoidance of an aversive state to drug-seeking behavior during marijuana withdrawal. To that end, marijuana users were scanned while performing the monetary incentive delay task in order to assess positive and negative incentive processes. The results showed a group x incentive interaction, such that marijuana users had greater response in areas that underlie reward processes during positive incentives while controls showed greater response in the same areas, but to negative incentives. Furthermore, a negative correlation between withdrawal symptoms and response in the amygdala during negative incentives was found in the marijuana users. These findings suggest that although marijuana users have greater reward sensitivity and less harm avoidance than controls, that attenuated amygdala response, an area that underlies fear and avoidance, was present in marijuana users with greater marijuana withdrawal symptoms. This is concordant with models of drug addiction that involve multiple sources of reinforcement in substance use disorders, and suggests the importance of strategies that focus on respective mechanisms.
In vivo γ-tocopherol supplementation decreases systemic oxidative stress and cytokine responses of human monocytes in normal and asthmatic subjects

Abstract We have recently reported that γ-tocopherol (γT) reduces allergen- and zymosan-induced inflammation using rodent models. As an initial step in extending these observations to humans, we conducted an open-label, Phase I dosing study of two doses (one or two capsules daily for 1 week) of a γ-tocopherol-rich preparation containing 623 mg of γ-tocopherol, 61.1 mg of d -α-tocopherol, 11.1 mg of d -β-tocopherol (11.1 mg), and 231 mg of d -σ-tocopherol per capsule. Endpoints for this study include serum levels of 5-nitro-γ-tocopherol, as a marker of oxidative stress, and changes in serum γ-, α-, and δ-tocopherol and γ-2′-carboxyethyl-6-hydroxychroman (CEHC) 6 and 24 h after the first dose and after 1 week of treatment. To assess the biological activity of this treatment, we obtained peripheral blood mononuclear cells at baseline and after 1 week of treatment with two capsules of a γ-tocopherol-rich preparation/day and examined the inflammatory cytokine response of these cells in culture to ex vivo endotoxin/LPS (0.01 ng/ml) challenge. We also monitored a number of safety endpoints to examine how well this preparation is tolerated in eight normal volunteers (four allergic and four nonallergic) and eight allergic asthmatics. We further obtained human monocytes from a subset of these volunteers and treated them ex vivo with γT, αT, γ-CEHC, and α-CEHC and assessed their actions on LPS-induced degradation of IκBα and JNK signaling and ROS generation. As detailed herein, this open-label study demonstrates that γ-tocopherol-enriched supplementation decreased systemic oxidative stress, increased serum levels of γ-tocopherol, and inhibited monocyte responses to LPS without any adverse health effects. Further, in vitro treatment of human monocytes with γ-CEHC and α-CEHC inhibits ROS generation and LPS-induced degradation of IκB and JNK activation.
Type-I interband cascade lasers near 3.2 μm

Interband cascade (IC) lasers have been demonstrated based on type-I InGaAsSb/AlAsSb quantum well (QW) active regions. These type-I IC lasers are composed of 6-cascade stages and InAs/AlSb superlattice cladding layers. In contrast to the use of quinary AlGaInAsSb barriers for active region in previous type-I QW lasers, the type-I QW active region in each stage is sandwiched by digitally graded multiple InAs/AlSb QW electron injector and GaSb/AlSb QW hole injector. The fabricated type-I IC lasers were able to operate in continuous wave and pulsed modes at temperatures up to 306 and 365 K, respectively. The threshold current densities of broad-area lasers were around 300 A/cm2 at 300 K with a lasing wavelength near 3.2 μm. The implications and prospects of these initial results are discussed.
Electrophysiologic observations on ventricular tachyarrhythmias following reperfusion

Abstract The threat of reperfusion ventricular fibrillation could potentially deter attempts of reperfusion in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Delineation of the mechanisms of this arrhythmia could pave the way to newer interventions designed as prevention or definitive treatment. Therefore the purpose of the present study was to investigate the features of initiation of reperfusion-induced ventricular fibrillation, and further to distinguish between episodic and sustained ventricular arrhythmias following reperfusion. Nine instances of reperfusion ventricular fibrillation and five instances of episodic tachyarrhythmia were analyzed in the study utilizing endocardial bipolar electrograms from normal, ischemic, reperfused, and the border of these myocardial segments. In 11 of 14 instances, the site of initiation of the tachyarrhythmias was in the reperfused myocardium; however, maintenance of the arrhythmia defined as diastolic and or continuous electrical activity suggestive of reentry was not seen in the reperfused myocardium in any of these instances. Diastolic electrical activity was observed in 8 of 14 instances, and was seen either in the center or border of ischemic myocardium. Neither heart rate or mean aortic pressure was different between episodic and sustained arrhythmia groups; however, the initial beat of the fatal arrhythmia was significantly more premature than that of episodic arrhythmia. In addition, shorter cycle length, greater variations in the cycle length, and greater disparity in local activation during the tachyarrhythmia were seen in the sustained arrhythmia group compared to the episodic group; cycle length increased and the disparity in local activation improved gradually prior to the termination of the arrhythmia. There was no particular difference in conduction delay immediately prior to reperfusion between control and reperfusion ventricular fibrillation groups. We conclude that different mechanisms exist for the initiation and maintenance of reperfusion-induced arrhythmias. Further, several features seem to distinguish episodic from fatal arrhythmias following reperfusion.
Revised microcalcification hypothesis for fibrous cap rupture in human coronary arteries

Using 2.1-µm high-resolution microcomputed tomography, we have examined the spatial distribution, clustering, and shape of nearly 35,000 microcalcifications (µCalcs) ≥ 5 µm in the fibrous caps of 22 nonruptured human atherosclerotic plaques. The vast majority of these µCalcs were 2), but only 3 of these pairs had h/D ≤ 0.4, where the local tissue stress could increase a factor > 5. Using nondecalcified histology, we also show that nearly all caps have µCalcs between 0.5 and 5 µm and that the µCalcs ≥ 5 µm observed in high-resolution microcomputed tomography are agglomerations of smaller calcified matrix vesicles. µCalcs < 5 µm are predicted to be not harmful, because the tiny voids associated with these very small particles will not explosively grow under tensile forces because of their large surface energy. These observations strongly support the hypothesis that nearly all fibrous caps have µCalcs, but only a small subset has the potential for rupture.
Lidar measurements of airborne particulate matter

Raman lidar techniques have been used in remote sensing to measure the aerosol optical extinction in the lower atmosphere, as well as water vapor, temperature and ozone profiles. Knowledge of aerosol optical properties assumes special importance in the wake of studies strongly correlating airborne particulate matter with adverse health effects. Optical extinction depends upon the concentration, composition, and size distribution of the particulate matter. Optical extinction from lidar returns provide information on particle size and density. The influence of relative humidity upon the growth and size of aerosols, particularly the sulfate aerosols along the northeast US region, has been investigated using a Raman lidar during several field measurement campaigns. A particle size distribution model is being developed and verified based on the experimental results. Optical extinction measurements from lidar in the NARSTO-NE-OPS program in Philadelphia PA, during summer of 1999 and 2001, have been analyzed and compared with other measurements such as PM sampling and particle size measurements.
Disturbance by wrack facilitates spread of Phragmites australis in a coastal marsh

Abstract Disturbance is an important factor facilitating the spread of nuisance and invasive species. Over the past century, the grass Phragmites australis has been spreading aggressively throughout coastal marshes of North America and is now considered a nuisance species in many regions. In this study, I examine how natural disturbance by wrack (primarily dead plant material of the native grass Spartina alterniflora) affects the local spread of stands of P. australis in a coastal marsh in southern New England, USA. A survey indicated that wrack covered 8.4% of the marsh and that a disproportionate amount of wrack (73% of wrack cover) is stranded at the highest tidal elevations of the marsh next to stands of P. australis. To test hypotheses that wrack inhibits or facilitates the seaward spread of P. australis, I did two experiments where I manipulated the presence or absence of wrack next to stands of P. australis and then monitored the performance of P. australis: (1) wrack was either removed or not removed for two growing seasons from areas where wrack had naturally stranded adjacent to stands of P. australis, and (2) wrack was either added or not added next to stands of P. australis without naturally stranded wrack for one growing season, and then the added wrack was removed before the next growing season. Removing naturally stranded wrack resulted in a substantial increase in the density of shoots of P. australis compared to areas with wrack. Similarly, areas where wrack was added for one growing season and then removed before the emergence of shoots in the next, had more than double the density of shoots compared to areas of natural marsh turf that did not undergo this disturbance. Moreover, these shoots were significantly taller and produced more inflorescences. Therefore, wrack stranded in the marsh can suppress the vegetative growth of P. australis, but once it decomposes or is removed by the tides, P. australis spreads dramatically. Wrack appears to facilitate the spread of P. australis by smothering the underlying marsh turf, creating patches of bare space with environmental conditions favourable to the spread of P. australis. The only areas where P. australis did not increase substantially were those continually occupied by marsh turf, indicating that undisturbed marsh turf is an important buffer resisting the local spread by P. australis. Because P. australis is currently spreading and the litter of P. australis contributes to the biomass of wrack, disturbance by wrack may be an increasingly important factor facilitating the spread of P. australis and influencing the ecology of coastal marshes.
Scale-based correlations of relative areas with fracture of chocolate

Abstract Scale-based correlation analyses are applied to the fractography of chocolate. The objective is to show how scale-based analyses can find functional correlations between surface properties and surface textures. This work may also provide some insights into the fracture of chocolate, as distinct scales with strong correlations are found. Chocolate was broken by a strain-rate controlled three-point bending apparatus at various temperatures. The fractured surfaces were measured using a scanning laser microscope. Area-scale analyses, a kind of scale-sensitive fractal analysis, were performed on the measured surfaces, producing relative areas as a function of scale. The correlation between relative area and temperature was computed at each scale and charted. The results of the analyses showed excellent correlation, approaching R 2 of 1, between relative area and temperature of fracture at a scale of about 17,000 μm 2 . The R 2 values decrease at higher and lower scales to less than 0.1.
Murine mammary tumor virus (MuMTV) infection of an epithelial cell line established from C57BL/6 mouse mammary glands.

Abstract An epithelioid cell line derived from the mammary glands of a C57BL/6 mouse and designated C57MG cell line was found to be susceptible to infection by routine mammary tumor virus (MuMTV). Although uninfected C57MG cells contain endogenous MuMTV-related DNA sequences, no RNA sequences homologous to MuMTV were detectable, even after treatment with the glucocorticoid, dexamethasone. However, after infection with MuMTV, these cells acquire additional MuMTV DNA, and viral RNA and proteins were readily detectable. Most, if not all, of the additional MuMTV DNA in infected C57MG cells appeared to be integrated. Synthesis of viral RNA and protein, and the release of virions into culture fluid by infected C57MG cells, was stimulated by incorporation of dexamethasone in the growth medium. The efficiency of infection by MuMTV in C57MG cells was similar to that in nonmurine cells. There was a direct relationship between multiplicity of infection (m.o.i.) and the average number of MuMTV RNA molecules detected per cell 5 weeks after infection. However, even at the highest m.o.i. used (4 × 10 5 virions/cell), a plateau in the average number of viral RNA molecules per cell was not achieved. The origin of MuMTV synthesized by infected C57MG cells, whether it is the progeny of infecting MuMTV or of the endogenous C57BL/6 MuMTV or of both, remains undetermined. We have been unable to detect any morphological or growth pattern changes in C57MG cells following infection with MuMTV.
Productivity and distribution under cropsharing tenancy

Abstract This paper develops a model of sharecropping assuming tenant autonomy, competitive behavior of landlords and laborers and endogenously determined wage and share-rental rates. The coexistence of wage labor and sharecropping is explained in terms of their incentive, labor process and risk-sharing characteristics. Sharecropping serves as a surrogate for the direct supervision of the labor process. Its incidence is shown to rise in the presence of unemployment at a subsistence wage. The model implies that the abolition of tenancy will raise output, raise labor income and reduce land income.
Studies on the optical isomers of EPN and EPNO

Abstract The optical isomers of EPN ( O -ethyl O-p -nitrophenyl phenylphosphonothionate) and EPNO ( O -ethyl O-p -nitrophenyl phenylphosphonate) have been synthesized. No significant difference in the rate of alkaline hydrolysis of the isomers at the two pH's evaluated was observed. The (+)-isomers of EPN and EPNO were more toxic to house flies than the corresponding (−)-isomers, while the (+)- and (−)-isomers, as well as the racemic mixture of EPN, were almost equally toxic to mice. The (+)-EPNO is more toxic to mice than the corresponding (−)-isomer. Cholinesterase inhibition studies demonstrated that (+)-EPNO has a higher bimolecular rate constant, ( k i ) than the corresponding (−)-isomer. This higher inhibitory power was due to a higher affinity ( K a ) of the (+)-isomer.
Association of adenovirus type 2 early proteins with a soluble complex that synthesizes adenovirus DNA in vitro.

A soluble Ad2 DNA synthesizing complex was prepared from Ad2-infected KB cell nuclei and purified by exclusion chromatography on a BioGel A-50m column. The purified complex was able to synthesize DNA from all regions of the virus genome, as indicated by EcoRI restriction endonuclease analysis of in vitro labeled DNA. Experiments were performed to identify Ad2-induced early polypeptides present in the complex. Ad2-infected and mock-infected cells were labeled with [35S]methionine 7–10 h postinfection, then incubated for 8 h to allow the 35S-labeled early polypeptides to become associated with the complex. The polypeptides in the purified complex and each of the cell fractions were identified by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. The major components of the purified complex were the 73K DNA binding phosphoprotein and 11K, two adenovirus 2-induced early polypeptides. The 11K has a preferred nuclear location. Small quantities of other Ad2-induced early proteins, 21K, 15K, and possibly 8.3K were also associated with the complex.
Virus x in the newer potato varieties and the transmission of this virus by the cutting knife

Potato virus X was found causing mosaic symptoms in potato plants of the varieties Katahdin, Sebago, and Chippewa collected from New York State potato fields.
Coagulation-diffusion systems: derivation and existence of solutions for the diffuse interface structure equations

Abstract This paper considers an infinite system of partial differential equations, the coagulation-diffusion equations, which add spatial diffusion to the classical coagulation equations. The main emphasis is placed on deriving an infinite system of ordinary differential equations which described the structured interface between reacting coagulation and dilute concentration. Existence of solutions to interfacial equaitons is proven under spatial boundary conditions.
A composite Latin rectangle and nonstandard strip block design

Considered is an unusual split plot design. The whole plot part is a Latin rectangle design, while the split plot part derives from a nonstandard strip block design. For the strip block part, there are two treatment factors that are randomized to strips across the whole plot experimental units, not to strips within each whole plot experimental unit. The result is five split plot error terms, not three as in a standard strip block design. The mixed model analysis and optimal exact tests for all treatment effects are developed geometrically. The analysis is illustrated by example and concluding remarks on replicated designs are offered.
Direct Exfoliation of Graphite to Graphene in Aqueous Media with Diazaperopyrenium Dications

The 2,9-dimethyldiazaperopyrenium dication can be made from a ubiquitous and inexpensive feedstock in three simple steps as its chloride salt. When mixed with powdered graphite at 23 °C, this behemoth of a molecular compound exfoliates graphite to graphene in water under mild conditions.
Teacher/student authored CAI using the NEWBASIC system

The pedagogical advantages of a general purpose interactive system called NEWBASIC/CATALYST are discussed. NEWBASIC/CATALYST incorporates an advanced implementation of BASIC, system-level interactive features, and a general capability for extension through user oriented function attachment. Application of this last feature to provide a flexible CAI scan capability is illustrated. An example of interaction at the system level shows how students can mix the advantages of independent or “solo” mode computing with those of guided or “dual” mode interaction. Preliminary experience with the system in an urban secondary school setting is discussed.
Coexisting densities, vapor pressures and critical densities of refrigerants R-32 and R-152a, at 300-385 K

Abstract Holcomb, C.D., Niesen, V.G., Van Poolen, L.J. and Outcalt, S.L., 1993. Coexisting densities, vapor pressures and critical densities of refrigerants R-32 and R-152a at 300-385 K. Fluid Phase Equilibria , 91: 145-157. Experimental measurements for the vapor pressures and coexisting densities are presented for the refrigerants R-32 (difluoromethane) and R-152a (1,1-difluoroethane) from 300 K to near thier respective critical points. In addition, the coexisting density measurements have been analyzed to determine an internally consistent critical density using the critical liquid volume fraction method. Experimental results have been correlated and are in good agreement with existing literature values for each compound.
Excited-state reaction and the origin of the biexponential fluorescence decay of tryptophan zwitterion

Abstract The fluorescence decay of tryptophan zwitterion in H2O and D2O solution was determined over the entire emission spectrum. The biexponential decay kinetics show features which are consistent with the occurrence of an excited-state reaction. This observation is not predicted by models of tryptophan photophysics based on ground-state conformation heterogeneity. We speculate that the excited-state reaction involves alteration of the rotamer populations in response to the change in the state dipole which occurs upon excitation.
Max Weight Learning Algorithms for Scheduling in Unknown Environments

We consider a discrete time queueing system where a controller makes a 2-stage decision every slot. The decision at the first stage reveals a hidden source of randomness with a control-dependent (but unknown) probability distribution. The decision at the second stage generates an attribute vector that depends on this revealed randomness. The goal is to stabilize all queues and optimize a utility function of time average attributes, subject to an additional set of time average constraints. This setting fits a wide class of stochastic optimization problems, including multi-user wireless scheduling with dynamic channel measurement decisions, and wireless multi-hop routing with multi-receiver diversity and opportunistic routing decisions. We develop a simple max-weight algorithm that learns efficient behavior by averaging functionals of previous outcomes.
Reliability criteria for system dynamic performance

One of the topics of discussion at the January 1976 meeting of the Working Group on Dynamic System Performance was the reliability criteria for system design as specified by the National Electric Reliability Council (NERC) and the Council's regional design review committees. The Working Group discussion occurred just after the 10th anniversary of the November 1965 "Northeast Blackout." It seemed appropriate at that time to review the events of the intervening decade and evaluate the progress made in assuring adequate system design for dynamic performance.
Autoregressive modeling of voiced speech

It is well known that the classical linear predictive model for speech fails to take into account the quasi-periodic nature of the glottal flow typical of voiced speech. In this article we describe how to incorporate an estimate of the glottal flow directly into the traditional linear prediction framework, through the use of flexible basis function expansions that admit efficient estimation procedures. As we show, this not only allows for improved estimation of vocal tract transfer function parameters in a manner that is robust to pitch variation, but also precludes the need for nonlinear optimization procedures typically required in glottal waveform estimation. We illustrate our approach with experiments using synthesized and real speech waveforms, and show how it may be used to directly estimate the relative degree of voicing and aspiration present in a given utterance.
Intracellular transport and virion incorporation of vpx requires interaction with other virus type-specific components.

Abstract Viral protein X (vpx) is a virion associated HIV-2/SIV accessory protein that enhances viral infectivity and replication in natural target cells. To investigate whether other viral components affect its biosynthesis, subcellular localization, and virion incorporation, we expressed HIV-2 vpx in a mammalian cell system and examined its transport and packaging requirements using an in trans complementation assay. The complete vpx coding region of HIV-2ST was placed under the control of a high-efficiency promoter system (SRα) which contained both an SV40 promoter/enhancer region and R/U5 elements of the HTLV-1 LTR. Following transfection of Cos-1 cells, this construct (pSRα-vpx) facilitated high level expression of vpx, as demonstrated by Western blot analysis of transfected cell lysates. Moreover, indirect immunofluorescence analysis revealed an intense vpx staining pattern distributed evenly throughout the cytoplasm of transfected cells. This distribution differed markedly from cells expressing wild-type HIV-2 in which vpx localized to the inner surface of the plasma membrane. To determine whether other HIV components were required for this surface localization, we expressed vpx in the context of replication competent HIV-1 and HIV-2 proviruses. Following cotransfection with a vpx-deficient HIV-2 provirus (pXM7), eukaryotically expressed vpx targeted to the plasma membrane and colocalized with HIV-2 p27 gag in a pattern indistinguishable from wild-type HIV-2. Moreover, progeny virions from cotransfected Cos-1 cells contained wild-type amounts of vpx protein, demonstrating that vpx could be efficiently packaged in trans. Under the same experimental conditions, cotransfection of vpx with wild-type HIV-1 (pHXB2) and with vpr-deficient HIV-1 (pR2) failed to result in detectable cell surface targeting or virion incorporation of vpx despite its high level cellular expression. These results demonstrate that efficient intracellular transport and packaging of vpx require interaction with other type-specific virus components.
Thermo-mechanical instabilities in patched structures with edge damage

Abstract The problem of thermal buckling of patched beam-plates possessing (stationary) symmetric edge detachment is studied. The analytical model is adapted from recent work of the authors and accounts for a (propagating or full) contact zone adjacent to the bonded region. The associated geometrically non-linear problem is recast in a mixed formulation that lends itself to exact analytical solutions in terms of a membrane force, the value of which is determined from an integrability condition. Stability analyses are performed on the equilibrium configurations, revealing salient behavior of the composite structure under thermal loading. Results from numerical simulations indicate the occurrence of sling-shot buckling in the partially detached structure, where the structure is seen to dynamically buckle from one configuration to another configuration (which corresponds to deflection in the opposite sense.) This previously established phenomenon has been shown to be pervasive in intact layered structures under thermal loading. The results of the present study also unveil the occurrence of a, here-to-fore, unreported phenomenon the authors refer to as “ buckle-trapping” . During this event, the structure becomes trapped between two unstable equilibrium configurations whose deflections are of opposite sense. This phenomenon is associated with the physical change of the structure through deflection, and its related instabilities. These instabilities, and the associated sequence of events, are seen to be a function of the relative size of the detached region, the support conditions and, consequently, the nature of the contact zone and/or its dissolution.
Acidotic alterations in oxidative metabolism influencing rat renal slice amnoniagenesis

We believe that two findings are interconnected and help to comprehend a major mechanism behind the regulation of renal ammonia production during acidosis. First, slices from acidotic compared to control and alkalotic rats produce more ammonia from glutamine. Second, inhibition of renal oxidative metabolism at various points by metabolic inhibitors augments slice ammoniagenesis. Based on this, our purpose was to determine whether enhanced renal ammoniagenesis during acidosis could occur through the same mechanism as the metabolic inhibitors. However, metabolic inhibitors (malonate; arsenite; 2,4-dinitrophenol) usually decrease while acidosis increases slice gluconeogenesis. There is one known exception. Fluorocitrate, which blocks citrate metabolism, simulates the acidotic condition by enhancing both ammonia and glucose production. Accordingly, a block of oxidative metabolism if located prior to citrate oxidation in the tricarboxylic acid cycle could theoretically augment ammoniagenesis during acidosis. Lactate, is a major renal fuel whose oxidative metabolism would be blocked by fluorocitrate. There, we concentrated on the effects of acidosis on lactate as well as glutamine metabolism. Lactate decarboxylation decreases in the face of increased glucose production during acidosis, and lactate inhibition of glutamine decarboxylation decreases in slices from acidotic rats. Also, we found lesser oxygen consumption in the presence of lactate by kidney slices from acidotic rats compared to control and alkalotic rats. We postulate that relatively less incorporation of lactate into the TCA cycle, causing decreased citrate formation and citrate oxidation during acidosis, contributes, at least in part, to acidotic adaptation of ammoniagenesis.
A Framework for Automatic Deployment of Robots in 2D and 3D Environments

We present a computational framework for automatic deployment of robots in 2D and 3D rectangular environments with polytopal obstacles. The results are derived for polytopal robots that can only translate with velocities restricted to polyhedral sets. Our approach consists of three steps: (1) constructing a discrete representation of the problem by using hierarchical partitions in the form of quad-trees and oct-trees, (2) planning the motion in the finite dimensional quotient produced by the partition, and (3) generating provably correct robot feedback control laws by constructing a hybrid system. Given the environment and robot geometry and constraints, generation of control laws is completely automated. The computation consists of polyhedral operations and searches on graphs.
I looked to her as a guide: the therapeutic relationship in hand therapy

Purpose. To illustrate important dimensions of the therapeutic relationship in a hand therapy patient–therapist dyad.Method. This instrumental case study utilised narrative analysis of semi-structured interviews of a patient–therapist dyad.Results. Four dimensions of the therapeutic relationship were identified. These were (1) humour to promote reciprocity, (2) ordinary conversation to build rapport, (3) social comparison to promote acceptance and (4) attention as caring.Conclusions. The therapeutic relationship is not a one-way flow from therapist to patient but a mutual exchange between equals. However, it is the therapist who is responsible for establishing the environment for the therapeutic relationship to develop and flourish.
Progress toward heterologous expression of active G-protein-coupled receptors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Linking cellular stress response with translocation and trafficking

High-level expression of mammalian G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is a necessary step toward biophysical characterization and high-resolution structure determination. Even though many heterologous expression systems have been used to express mammalian GPCRs at high levels, many receptors are improperly trafficked or are inactive in these systems. En route to engineering a robust microbial host for GPCR expression, we have investigated the expression of 12 GPCRs in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, where all receptors are expressed at the mg/L scale. However, only the human adenosine A2a (hA2aR) receptor is active for ligand-binding and located primarily at the plasma membrane, whereas other tested GPCRs are mainly retained within the cell. Selective receptors associate with BiP, an ER-resident chaperone, and activated the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway, which suggests that a pool of receptors may be folded incorrectly. Leader sequence cleavage of the expressed receptors was complete for the hA2aR, as expected, and partially cleaved for hA2bR, hCCR5R, and hD2LR. Ligand-binding assays conducted on the adenosine family (hA1R, hA2aR, hA2bR, and hA3R) of receptors show that hA2aR and hA2bR, the only adenosine receptors that demonstrate leader sequence processing, display activity. Taken together, these studies point to translocation as a critical limiting step in the production of active mammalian GPCRs in S. cerevisiae.
Using a Multiple-Mixing-Cell Model to Study Minimum Miscibility Pressure Controlled by Thermodynamic Equilibrium Tie Lines

In this work, we demonstrate that our simulation approach, referred to as the multiple-mixing-cell model, gives the same results as the analytical method for two-phase gas flooding. For a gas−oil system with nc components, the gas injection process leads to nc + 1 constant-composition zones, and the compositional path of the process, i.e., the path in composition space representing the total composition, is controlled by nc − 1 key thermodynamic equilibrium tie lines: the initial tie line, the injection tie line, and nc − 3 crossover tie lines. In addition, our approach clearly demonstrates that both the gas/oil ratio and fluid mobility do not affect tie-line compositional paths, i.e., compositional paths that lie on the thermodynamic equilibrium tie lines, but they do affect nc − 2 non-tie-line compositional paths. Therefore, neither the gas/oil ratio nor the fluid mobility affects the minimum miscibility pressure (MMP). In the context of the multiple-mixing-cell model, this fact has never been explicit...
XXXVII. Reversion of power series

(1910). XXXVII. Reversion of power series. The London, Edinburgh, and Dublin Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science: Vol. 19, No. 111, pp. 366-376.
Factors Affecting the Ability of Energy Functions to Discriminate Correct from Incorrect Folds

Eighteen low and medium resolution empirical energy functions were tested for their ability to distinguish correct from incorrect folds from three test sets of decoy protein conformations. The energy functions included 13 pairwise potentials of mean force, covering a wide range of functional forms and methods of parameterization, four potentials that attempt to detect properly formed hydrophobic cores, and one environment-based potential. The first of the three test sets consists of large ensembles of plausible conformations for eight small proteins, all of which have correct native secondary structure and are reasonably compact. The second is the set of all subconformations in a database of known protein structures applied to the sequences in that database (ungapped threading). The third is a set of ensembles of 1000 conformations each for seven small proteins taken from molecular dynamics simulations at 298 K and 498 K. Our results show that there are functions effective for each challenge set; moreover, success in one test is no guarantee of success in another. We examine the factors that seem to be important for accurate discrimination of correct structures in each of the test sets, and note that extremely simple functions are often as effective as more complex functions. # 1997 Academic Press Limited
How to approach an apheresis consultation using the American Society for Apheresis guidelines for therapeutic apheresis procedures

Therapeutic apheresis (TA) is a treatment modality currently being used in many disease conditions. However, the decision to treat a patient with TA depends on many factors, including but not limited to the most likely diagnosis the patient has and whether there is a rationale for TA to be used as a treatment modality, the risk versus benefit ratio of the treatment and the technical aspects of the procedure if apheresis is performed. The guidelines on the use of therapeutic apheresis in clinical practice – evidence-based approach from the writing committee of the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) are update every 3 years and are based on the review of the most up to date medical literature addressing the rationale as well as technical aspect of apheresis. The guidelines are meant to help with clinical decision-making in apheresis consultations and to encourage research on the use of apheresis for novel indications. The format used for the different disease conditions is one-page fact sheet. In this article, the development and application of these fact sheets in those guidelines are discussed along with an example for each of ASFA’s four categories.
The Educators Coop: A virtual world model for real world collaboration

Research is presented examining the effectiveness of Second Life (SL), a 3-D virtual world, as a collaborative work tool for a virtual group of 42 real educators and researchers from diverse disciplines and geographical regions. The study focuses on phase one of research being conducted in the Educators Coop, the first long term virtual residential community established in SL specifically for educators and researchers. Six primary themes emerged from the content analysis of the members' responses to the open-ended interview question “How have you used the Educators Coop?” Primarily, the 3-D virtual space is being used to collaborate, to learn, to do real work, to work alone, to network with neighbors, and to build. Some challenges include overloaded work schedules, time zones differences, and computer technology requirements and glitches.
Series-Resistor Calibration

We develop a coplanar-waveguide probe-tip scattering parameter calibration based on a thru, a reflect, and an accurately modeled series resistor. Comparison to a multiline Thru-Reflect-Line calibration verifies the accuracy of the method.
Calibration and finite element simulation of pouch lithium-ion batteries for mechanical integrity

Abstract Mechanical tests were performed on pouched and bare lithium-ion cells under five loading conditions. These included through-thickness compression, in-plane unconfined compression, in-plane confined compression, hemispherical punch indentation and three-point bending. From the measured load–displacement data, the individual compression stress–strain curves were calculated for the separator, the active anode and cathode materials. The FE model was developed, composed of shell elements, representing the Al and Cu foil, and solid elements for the active material with a binder lumped together with the separator. Very good correlation was obtained between LS Dyna numerical simulation and test results for the through-thickness compression, punch indentation and confined compression. Closed form solutions were also derived to reveal the underlying physics and identify important groups of parameters. It was also demonstrated that a thin pouch enclosure provided considerable reinforcement and in some cases changed the deformation and failure mechanism. The present computational model of an individual cell provides a fundamental building block for modeling battery modules and battery packs across different length scales. The present test program differs substantially from the nail indentation or punch crush loading performed by the industry, and provides data for the development of an advanced constitutive model needed for strength/weight optimization and safety assessments of Li-ion batteries.
Ab initio studies on the mixed heterodimers of ammonia and hydrogen cyanide

Abstract Ab initio molecular structure calculations have been used to examine the association of NH 3 with HCN to form a heterodimer. Because of the potential importance of electron correlation in weakly associated complexes, the structure and energy of the heterodimers and the associated monomers are reported at both Hartree—Fock and Moller—Plesset levels of calculation. Other calculated properties including harmonic vibrational frequencies and rotational constants are also reported for each system. Several stationary points on the potential surface were located and characterized. In the two most stable configurations, the monomer units are associated through a hydrogen bond with HCN acting as the hydrogen donor. The structure predicted to be the most stable has a linear hydrogen bond and C 3v symmetry in accordance with the experimentally observed symmetric top spectrum. The stability of this structure is 5.28 kcal/mol (with MP2FULL/6-31 + G(3df, 2p) and 5.01 kcal/mol with counter-poise correction). The second structure having only C 1 symmetry is identified as a transition state. A third stable hydrogen bonded structure has HCN acting as the hydrogen acceptor and is the most weakly bound of the three.
Undergraduate Education in Heat Transfer - A Point of View

During the past three decades, many new technologies have enhanced the application of heat transfer, while other technologies (computational and measurement) have strongly influenced its practice. These developments present the heat transfer instructor with many options, and compromises must be made in deciding what balance should be reached in presenting heat transfer principles, establishing their relationship to thermal system behavior, and introducing modern tools of heat transfer analysis and measurement. In this paper, reasonable goals of a first course in heat transfer are identified and prioritized. Highest priority is assigned to those goals which enhance the student's understanding of basic principles and the skill to apply these principles in thermal system design and evaluation.
Assessing the Value of Collaborations in Tourism Networks: A Case Study of Elkhart County, Indiana

ABSTRACT This study explores the determinants of perceived value derived from interorganizational collaborations in a tourism destination. The authors propose a theoretical model of perceived value drawing upon the rich stream of literature related to strategic collaborations and interorganizational networks. The model was tested using a cross section of tourism organizations operating within Elkhart County, Indiana. The results indicate that a significant positive value of collaboration is achieved from dyadic relationships. Importantly, the results suggest that the positive effect achieved from one-to-one partnerships decreases once an organization collaborates with several other organizations. The article discusses various implications for managing strategic tourism partnerships.
Me++: The Cyborg Self and the Networked City. William J. Mitchell. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2003. 259 pp

In today's networked, technological context, the human being “consist[s] of a biological core surrounded by extended, constructed systems of boundaries and networks” (p. 7); our bodily senses are a...
PREOPERATIVE CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIATION THERAPY FOR LOCALLY ADVANCED PRIMARY AND RECURRENT RECTAL CARCINOMA. A REPORT OF SURGICAL MORBIDITY

Background. Complete surgical resection of locally advanced primary and recurrent rectal cancer is often incomplete. Improved tumor downstaging may improve resection rates and local control if postoperative morbidity is not increased. Methods. The clinical and pathologic records of 119 patients with locally advanced primary and recurrent rectal carcinoma were reviewed to determine the effect of preoperative chemoradiation on postoperative morbidity compared with a control group treated with external beam radiation therapy alone. Group I (56 patients) was treated with 45 Gy of external beam radiation therapy. Group II (63 patients) received 45 Gy of external beam radiation therapy with continuous-infusion cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, or both
Local refinement techniques for elliptic problems on cell‐centered grids; II. Optimal order two‐grid iterative methods

Two preconditioning techniques for solving difference equations arising in finite difference approximation of elliptic problems on cell-centered grids are studied. It is proven that the BEPS and the FAC preconditioners are spectrally equivalent to the corresponding finite difference schemes, including a nonsymmetric one, which is of higher-order accuracy. Numerical experiments that demonstrate the fast convergence of the preconditioned iterative methods (CG and GCG-LS in the nonsymmetric case) are presented.