cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rin GTPase Couples Nerve Growth Factor Signaling to p38 and b-Raf/ERK Pathways to Promote Neuronal Differentiation

In neuronal precursor cells, the magnitude and longevity of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade activation contribute to the nature of the cellular response, differentiation, or proliferation. However, the mechanisms by which neurotrophins promote prolonged MAP kinase signaling are not well understood. Here we defined the Rin GTPase as a novel component of the regulatory machinery contributing to the selective integration of MAP kinase signaling and neuronal development. Rin is expressed exclusively in neurons and is activated by neurotrophin signaling, and loss-of-function analysis demonstrates that Rin makes an essential contribution to nerve growth factor (NGF)-mediated neuronal differentiation. Most surprisingly, although Rin was unable to stimulate MAP kinase activity in NIH 3T3 cells, it potently activated isoform-specific p38α MAP kinase signaling and weakly stimulated ERK signaling in pheochromocytoma (PC6) cells. This cell-type specificity is explained in part by the finding that Rin binds and stimulates b-Raf but does not activate c-Raf. Accordingly, selective down-regulation of Rin in PC6 cells suppressed neurotrophin-elicited activation of b-Raf and p38, without obvious effects on NGF-induced ERK activation. Moreover, the ability of NGF to promote neurite outgrowth was inhibited by Rin knockdown. Together, these observations establish Rin as a neuronal specific regulator of neurotrophin signaling, required to couple NGF stimulation to sustain activation of p38 MAP kinase and b-Raf signaling cascades required for neuronal development.
Re‐slicing the Big Apple: New Immigrants and African‐Americans in the New York Economy

The continuing convergence of immigrants on New York City is a puzzle. On the one hand, the decline of the city's manufacturing sector and the growth of advanced services appear to provide little demand for immigrant labor; on the other hand, the deep penetration of immigrants into the city's economy has been paralleled by a deteriorating employment situation among native blacks. This article, seeks to unravel this puzzk in the light of two conflicting perspectives, the restructuring and the replacement labor hypotheses. The paper assesses each perspective using data from the 1970 and 1980 Censuses of Population and merged sampks of the June 1986 and 1988 Current Population Surveys.
The perception of dividends by professional investors

Purpose – To study the perception of dividends by the professional investor, for whom mutual fund managers are a proxy. The main line of research in dividends is based on using market data that are fit, ex post, to a cherished hypothesis. It is believed, however, that such data cannot measure motivation which is the underlying force behind generating market data. An understanding of motivation will give us more insight into the dividend paradox (why shareholders love dividends) than just the surface reality one can glean from market data.Design/methodology/approach – Using a survey instrument, the method of analysis (not methodology) is factor analysis and hierarchical grouping that uncovers three distinct groups of professional investors re their attitude towards dividend. This categorization clearly shows that the dividends are perceived differently by the groups found here. Thus, research in dividends cannot follow a traditional route in which the phenomenon is treated as universal, or something simila...
Competitive exclusion and coexistence for a quasilinear size-structured population model

We present a quasilinear size-structured model which describes the dynamics of a population with n competing ecotypes. We assume that the vital rates of each subpopulation depend on the total population due to competition. We provide conditions on the individual rates which guarantee competitive exclusion in the case of closed reproduction (offspring always belongs to the same ecotype as the parent). In particular, our results suggest that the ratio of the reproduction and mortality rates is a good measure to determine the winning ecotype. Meanwhile, we show that in the case of open reproduction all ecotypes coexist.
Land grid array sockets for server applications

The design and performance of land grid array (LGA) sockets are discussed with respect to high-performance server applications. Motivations for the use of this technology are presented, and the specific challenges associated with its application are discussed from a mechanical perspective. A variety of mechanical performance considerations are identified for LGA socket technologies, and a detailed evaluation of competing socket-actuation designs is presented using finite element structural analysis. Some design approaches are shown to suffer from excessive mechanical flexure, which can consume the allowable range of motion of the contact, resulting in excessive contact load variation within the LGA. Statistical considerations for the mechanical deflections and tolerances that contribute to range-of-motion consumption are developed using Monte Carlo techniques, and a parametric study of the mechanical design variables that influence contact load variation within the LGA is presented.
Extruded continuous filament nonwovens: Advances in scientific aspects

Continous filament nonwovens are fabrics produced by the direct lay processes, wherein webs are made directly from fibers as they are being spun from molten plastics. These processes eliminate intermediate steps in the production of fabrics, and they provide opportunities for increasing production and cost reduction, although the flexibility in product ranges might be limited. The two important processes in this category are spunbonding and meltblowing. In spunbonding, the fabrics are produced by depositing extruded spun filaments onto a collecting belt followed by bonding of the fibers. There are several process variables that have an impact on the structure and properties of the fibers, and consequently on the structure and properties of the bonded fabric. Although there has been a significant technological advance, the scientific understanding of the process has been limited. Effects of some of these variables have been investigated over the past few years. There has also been some effort to simulate the process by mathematical modeling. A summary of the advances in understanding the evolution of structure and properties during filament formation and thermal bonding is discussed in this paper.
Topical herbal remedies: Research opportunities for plastic surgeons

Summary The use of topical herbal remedies (THRs) among plastic surgery patients is rampant, sometimes indiscriminately, and expanding rapidly. Supporting scientific evidence is low, and most patients who use THRs believe firmly that being ‘natural', these agents are ‘safe'. The federal regulation of THRs is not uniform. The research potential of these remedies is underexplored, creating a vast opportunity for plastic surgeons to harvest its clinical benefits and help create a regulatory structure that promotes patient safety. This article delineates the critical aspects: essential steps in starting research in THRs, organisational structure to support this work including funding sources, intellectual property and patent protection, federal regulation and patient education and advocacy. These steps create a platform for plastic surgeons to pursue this research work and translate it into the clinical setting effectively.
The role of life history parameters as indicators of stock structure

Vital population parameters, such as growth, survival, recruitment, reproduction, distribution, and abundance, are the consequences of life history modes to which fish stocks have evolved. Differences in these parameters have long been used to identify separate management stocks assuming that phenotypic variation is due to genotypic and environmental controls. However, few studies have examined the temporal stability of life history parameters, nor the mechanisms by which differences in these parameters between stocks are maintained. We examine the temporal and spatial stability of several life history parameters of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), and yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea) in the northwest Atlantic Ocean to assess their utility for stock identification. Although significant temporal differences in vital rates were found within stocks, differences were generally maintained between stocks. Both genetic (biological) and oceanographic (physical) conditions play an integral role in maintaining stock structure. Although, the utility of vital life history parameters for stock identification may decrease with stock complexity and exploitation history, their applicability increases with the number of parameters examined.
Modeling and control of doubly fed induction generator for wind power

With increased penetration of wind power into the electrical grid, Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) for wind turbines are largely deployed due to their variable speed feature and hence influencing system dynamics. This paper presents the modeling and control of DFIG in details, where the stator is connected directly to a stiff grid and the rotor is connected to the grid through bidirectional back-to-back AC-DC-AC converter. The proposed model is the only complete detailed Simulink model which does not use the Semi-Power System toolbox and will be suitable to be operated in both sub-synchronous and super-synchronous mode of operation. A new vector control strategy based on the rotor flux oriented vector control has been proposed in this paper. the new vector control strategy is compared with the stator flux oriented vector control which is commonly used to control the DFIG. The two indirect vector control strategies based on the stator flux estimation, and rotor flux estimation have been applied to the rotor side converter (RSC) to control the stator active power produced by the generator. The complete system is modeled and simulated in the MATLAB/ SIMULINK environment in such a way that it can be suited for modeling of all types of induction generator configurations.
The electronic spectra of the pyrimidine bases uracil and thymine in a supersonic molecular beam

The resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization spectra of uracil and thymine have been observed in the gas phase in a supersonic molecular beam. In spite of extensive cooling the spectra are broad and diffuse. These results are compared to a previously reported fluorescence spectrum for uracil which showed sharp structure. Photoionization spectra show that the species responsible for the sharp spectrum has a higher molecular weight than uracil, and this species appears to be an impurity formed from uracil in the oven. The diffuseness in the uracil and thymine spectra is attributed either to mixing of electronic states or to a large geometry change between the ground and excited electronic states.
Intestinal Plexuses in Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis in Children: Pathologic and Microdissection Studies

The relative fraction of neural tissue in the plane of the myenteric (Auerbach) plexus (MEP) of ileum and colon of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis was analyzed by point-count morphometric analysis of microdissected flat-mount ("circuit diagram") preparations of the plexus. Increase in the relative fraction of neural tissue (myenteric plexus hyperplasia) was seen in the MEP of some patients in both ileum and colon in both diseases. The frequency of ulceration or inflammation extending into the bowel wall deep enough to injure the various levels of the intestinal plexus system (mucosal plexus of Cajal; upper submucosal plexus of Meissner; deeper submucosal plexus of Henle; intermuscular plexus of Auerbach; outer muscular/serosal plexus of Stohr) was analyzed for small intestine, appendix, and colon for patients with both diseases. As expected, Crohn's disease tends to produce deeper intestinal wall damage in ileum versus colon, and ulcerative colitis the reverse. The effect of such injury on local and more distal motor control of the intestine and on integrative functions of the intestinal plexus system appears not to have been considered previously. Since injury deep enough to damage any given plexus necessarily damages all overlying plexus levels, analysis of such effects appears a fruitful field for study.
Lipopolysaccharide-induced sensitization of adenylyl cyclase activity in murine macrophages

LPS is known to modulate macrophage responses during sepsis, including cytokine release, phagocytosis, and proliferation. Although agents that elevate cAMP reverse LPS-induced macrophage functions, whether LPS itself modulates cAMP and whether LPS-induced decreases in proliferation are modulated via a cAMP-dependent pathway are not known. Murine macrophages (RAW264.7 cells) were treated with LPS in the presence or absence of inhibitors of prostaglandin signaling, protein kinases, CaM, Gi proteins, and NF-kappaB translocation or transcription/translation. LPS effects on CaMKII phosphorylation and the expression of relevant adenylyl cyclase (AC) isoforms were measured. LPS caused a significant dose (5-10,000 ng/ml)- and time (1-8 h)-dependent increase in forskolin-stimulated AC activity that was abrogated by pretreatment with SN50 (an NF-kappaB inhibitor), actinomycin D, or cycloheximide, indicating that the effect is mediated via NF-kappaB-dependent transcription and new protein synthesis. Furthermore, LPS decreased the phosphorylation state of CaMKII, and pretreatment with a CaM antagonist attenuated the LPS-induced sensitization of AC. LPS, cAMP, or PKA activation each independently decreased macrophage proliferation. However, inhibition of NF-kappaB had no effect on LPS-induced decreased proliferation, indicating that LPS-induced decreased macrophage proliferation can proceed via PKA-independent signaling pathways. Taken together, these findings indicate that LPS induces sensitization of AC activity by augmenting the stimulatory effect of CaM and attenuating the inhibitory effect of CaMKII on isoforms of AC that are CaMK sensitive.
Are We Ready for a Blood-Based Test to Detect Colon Cancer?

Colorectal cancer (CRC)2 remains one of the leading causes of death in the US despite improvements in early detection, changes in risk factors (e.g., decreased rates of smoking, decreased red meat consumption, and increased use of aspirin), and improved treatments (1). The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommend that an individual age ≥50 years with no family history for CRC be screened (2, 3). The gold standard screening method for CRC is colonoscopy. Part of the barrier to widespread utilization of CRC screening is the “ick factor.” For colonoscopy, patients expressed the following reasons they did not undergo a colonoscopy: volume of bowel preparation, inadequate analgesia, no recommendation from primary physician, and embarrassment (4). Other CRC screening methods also have the ick factor, as they are stool-based [e.g., guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (FOBT), fecal immunochemical test (FIT), or stool DNA]. Circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) testing is gaining momentum in clinical testing because ccfDNA can easily be isolated from the circulation (e.g., plasma) and other body fluids of patients. The largest uptake of ccfDNA testing has been in the arena of noninvasive prenatal testing as an alternative to maternal serum screening. ccfDNA is also a promising candidate for cancer testing since ccfDNA has genetic and epigenetic features similar to those of tumor DNA (5). In this issue of Clinical Chemistry , Potter and colleagues describe a blood-based assay to detect ccfDNA methylated septin 9 ( mSEPT9 ) and …
ON OBTAINING REACTIVE POTENTIAL ENERGY SURFACES FROM TRANSITION STATE PHOTODETACHMENT SPECTRA. I. SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS

We investigate the possibility of obtaining potential energy surfaces for chemical reactions from experimental photodetachment spectra by carrying out a sensitivity analysis. Specifically, the variations of the theoretical photodetachment spectrum with respect to the values of the potential on a grid of points (the “derivatives” of the spectrum) are calculated. We show how these derivatives can be obtained at no extra cost beyond that required to obtain the spectrum. Sensitivity analysis is performed on one- and two-degrees-of-freedom model photodetachment systems. The results are discussed in the context of the prospects for the “inversion” of transition state spectra to obtain potential surfaces in reactive systems.
Stent graft-induced new entry tear after endoluminal grafting for aortic dissection repaired with open interposition graft

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair is a successful treatment strategy for type B aortic dissections, with low morbidity and mortality compared with the gold standard of open repair. Questions still remain regarding its long-term durability and complication rate. There is a growing awareness of new entry tears induced by the stent graft, a potentially lethal complication. We report the case of a 74-year-old woman with a complicated retrograde type A aortic dissection treated with endovascular stent graft coverage. She required open surgical conversion after she developed a symptomatic, new entry tear induced by the stent graft.
Visual acuity development in infant monkeys (Macaca nemestrina) having known gestational ages

Abstract In a previous report, Teller et al. (1978) measured the postnatal development of visual acuity in infant macaque monkeys with a forced-choice preferential looking (FPL) method. They reported a general trend toward better resolution with age, but found considerable variability among individual infants of the same age. We have repeated these measurements, in the same species using the same methods, in infant monkeys with known gestational ages. We find that when acuity development is plotted as a function of post-term age, the time course is similar to the previous study, but the variability is reduced.
Growth and yield of maize at different altitudes in Rhodesia

SUMMARY A late (SR 52) and an early (N × K) variety were grown, with irrigation, on well fertilized soil at three sites, Chiredzi (altitude 420 m), Henderson (1260 m) and Grasslands (1620 m). Mean incoming radiation was similar at all sites, while mean temperature decreased as altitude increased. Final total and grain dry weights were greatest at Henderson, and those of SR 52 exceeded those of N × K, although not greatly at Chiredzi. Initially, leaf area index (L) decreased with increase in altitude, but plants flowered later as altitude increased, and L at the time of flowering was greatest at Henderson. L at flowering was greater in SR 52 than in N × K, though only slightly so at Chiredzi. Leaves withered sooner after flowering at Chiredzi and Grasslands than at Henderson, but leaves of the two varieties withered at about the same time after flowering at each site. During most of the vegetative phase the efficiency of the leaves and crop growth rate (C) increased with decrease in altitude, and were greater in N × K than in SR 52. More dry matter was accumulated after flowering at Henderson than at the other sites, and more by SR 52 than by N × K at Henderson and Grasslands, but not at Chiredzi. Leaf area duration (D) after flowering was greater at Henderson than elsewhere, and greater in SR 52 than in N × K, except at Chiredzi. After flowering leaf efficiency (dry weight increase ÷D) was least at Henderson and greatest at Grasslands, but differed little between varieties at each site. The fraction in the grain of the dry matter accumulated after flowering decreased with increase in altitude and was greater in SR 52 than in N × K.
Neuroscience Runs on GNU/Linux.

1 Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA 2 Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA 3 Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany *Correspondence: michael.hanke@gmail.com; yaroslav.o.halchenko@onerussian.com †Michael Hanke and Yaroslav O. Halchenko have contributed equally to this article.
COSTS OF EXPLOITING POISONOUS PREY: EVOLUTIONARY TRADE-OFFS IN A PREDATOR-PREY ARMS RACE.

Evolutionary trade-offs often are expected to arise between traits that share similar functions or resources. Such costs are well known from a variety of coevolutionary systems, but examples are conspicuously absent from predator-prey interactions. We present evidence of a trade-off between two disparate functions-predatory and anti-predatory ability-in a species of garter snake that has evolved resistance to the neurotoxin of its prey. Patterns of among-family variation suggest a genetic basis to the trade-off. Both resistant and nonresistant populations of snakes exhibit the trade-off, suggesting that it stems from a fundamental aspect of organismal performance. This cost may help to explain the geographic mosaic of predator exploitative ability and prey defense that exists in this system.
Reversible Effects of Photodamage Directed Toward Mitochondria

When the initial effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves mitochondrial photodamage, an early effect is loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm ). Using murine hepatoma 1c1c7 cells and a photosensitizing agent known to target mitochondria, we examined loss of ΔΨm , initiation of apoptosis and loss of viability as a function of time and light dose. There was a correlation between loss of viability and the rapid disappearance of ΔΨm, as detected by the potential-sensitive probe Mitotracker Orange (MTO). Loss of ΔΨm was, however, reversible even with a substantial loss of viability. Unless there was a supralethal level of photodamage, 1c1c7 cells recovered their mitochondrial membrane potential, even if the cell population was on the pathway to apoptosis and cell death. These results indicate that when mitochondria are the initial PDT target, a qualitative estimate of photokilling can be provided by assessing the initial loss of ΔΨm.
An Eigenvalue Method for Computing the Burning Rates of RDX Propellants

A mathematical model for a three-tiered system consisting of solid, liquid and gas is derived for studying the combustion of RDX propellants. The resulting nonlinear two-point boundary value problem is solved by Newton's method with adaptive gridding techniques. In this study the burning rate is computed as an eigenvalue, which can remove the uncertainty associated with employing evaporation and condensation rate laws in its evaluation. Results are presented for laser-assisted and self-deflagration of RDX monopropellants and are compared with experimental results. The burning rates are computed over a wide range of ambient pressures and compare well with experimental results from one to ninety atmospheres. The burning rate is found to be proportional to the pressure raised to the 0.76 power. Sensitivity of the burning rate to initial propellant temperture is calculated and found to be extremely low, in agreement with past theoretical predictions and experimental data. Results for laser-assisted combustion...
Sensitivity of UO2 Stability in a Reducing Environment on Radiolysis Model Parameters

Results for a radiolysis model sensitivity study of radiolytically produced H2O2 are presented as they relate to Spent (or Used) Light Water Reactor uranium oxide (UO2) nuclear fuel (UNF) oxidation in a low oxygen environment. The model builds on previous reaction kinetic studies to represent the radiolytic processes occurring at the nuclear fuel surface. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is the dominant oxidant for spent nuclear fuel in an O2-depleted water environment. The most sensitive parameters have been identified with respect to predictions under typical conditions. As compared with the full model with about 100 reactions, it was found that only 30 to 40 of the reactions are required to determine [H2O2] to one part in 10–5 and to preserve most of the predictions for major species. This allows a systematic approach for model simplification and offers guidance in designing experiments for validation.
Spatial masking does not reveal mechanisms selective to combined luminance and red-green color

Abstract Detection thresholds plotted in the L and M cone-contrast plane have shown that there are two primary detection mechanisms, a red–green hue mechanism and a light–dark luminance mechanism. However, previous masking results suggest there may be additional mechanisms, responsive to combined features like bright and red or dark and green. We measured detection thresholds for a 1.2 c deg −1 sine-wave grating in the presence of a spatially matched mask grating which was either stationary, dynamically jittered or flickered. The stimuli could be set to any direction in the L , M plane. The appearance of selectivity for combined hue and luminance arose only in conditions where adding the test to the mask modified the spatial phase offset between the luminance and red–green stimulus components. Sensitivity was very high for detecting this spatial phase offset. When this extra cue was eliminated, masking contours in the L , M plane could be largely described by the classical red–green and luminance mechanisms.
Alcohol use among reserve-dwelling adult First Nation members: Use, problems, and intention to change drinking behavior

Abstract Introduction Although alcohol use was not part of traditional First Nation (FN) life, alcohol misuse currently poses a significant public health problem. There is a dearth of research efforts to understand both alcohol misuse and efforts to resolve these problems. The primary aims of this study were to 1) present descriptive data on alcohol use in FN adults living on one reserve in Eastern Canada; and 2) explore correlates of help seeking intentions and past behaviors. Methods We administered questionnaires to 211 FN people (96 men; 113 women; 2 unknown). Results Nearly two-thirds of our sample were current drinkers (N = 150). Of those, 29% endorsed they needed help with their drinking, and half reported that they would probably try to cut down or stop drinking in the next year. Multiple regression analyses suggested that drinking was positively associated with a greater perceived need for help with drinking ( β = .40, p = β = − .18, p = .04). Greater endorsement of past year attempts to stop drinking ( β = .33, p β = .43, p β = − .19, p = .03) was associated with trying to cut down or stop drinking in the next year. Conclusions Future research should explore the nature of cultural identity as a protective factor.
Change in PSA velocity is a predictor of overall survival in men with biochemically-recurrent prostate cancer treated with nonhormonal agents: combined analysis of four phase-2 trials.

Change in PSA velocity is a predictor of overall survival in men with biochemically-recurrent prostate cancer treated with nonhormonal agents: combined analysis of four phase-2 trials
Enhanced susceptibility of pertussis inoculated mice to pollen extract.

SummaryPertussis inoculated mice have an enhanced susceptibility to lethal effects of water soluble extract of rye grass pollen. A mixture of this pollen extract with specific immune rabbit serum or normal rabbit serum will kill more pertussis inoculated mice than pollen extract alone.
A Fully-Integrated High-Compliance Voltage SoC for Epi-Retinal and Neural Prostheses

This paper presents a fully functionally integrated 1024-channel mixed-mode and mixed-voltage system-on-a-chip (SoC) for epi-retinal and neural prostheses. Taking an AC input, an integrated power telemetry circuits is capable of generating multiple DC voltages with a voltage conversion efficiency of 83% at a load of 100 mW without external diodes or separate power integrated circuits, reducing the form factor of the prosthetic device. A wireless DPSK receiver with a novel noise reduction scheme supports a data rate of 2 Mb/s at a bit-error-rate of 2 × 10-7. The 1024-channel stimulator array meets an output compliance voltage of ±10 V and provides flexible stimulation waveforms. Through chip-clustering, the stimulator array can be further expanded to 4096 channels. This SoC is designed and fabricated in TSMC 0.18 μm high-voltage 32 V CMOS process and occupies a chip area of 5.7 mm × 6.6 mm. Using this SoC, a retinal implant bench-top test system is set up with real-time visual verification. In-vitro experiment conducted in artificial vitreous humor is designed and set-up to investigate stimulation waveforms for better visual resolution. In our in-vivo experiment, a hind-limb paralyzed rat with spinal cord transection and implanted chronic epidural electrodes has been shown to regain stepping and standing abilities using stimulus provided by the SoC.
Detection of Benz[f]indene among the Pyrolysis Products of Coal and Anthracene

Using high-pressure liquid chromatography with diode-array ultraviolet-visible detection, we have identified benz[f]indene (C 13 H 10 ) among the pyrolysis products of coal and the model compound anthracene, a three-ring compound representative of the aromatic moieties in coal. The coal pyrolysis experiments are conducted at 700-1000 °C in a fluidized bed reactor; the anthracene experiments, at 900-1000 °C in a laminar flow reactor. This is the first time that benz[f]indene has been identified as a product of either fuel, coal or anthracene. Oxidative ring rupture is proposed as the mechanism responsible for the formation of benz[f]indene and other indene benzologues in these products.
Tumor size evaluated by pelvic examination compared with 3-D MR quantitative analysis in the prediction of outcome for cervical cancer

Purpose: Tumor size estimated by pelvic examination (PE) is an important prognostic factor in cervical cancer treated with radiation therapy (RT). Recent histologic correlation studies also showed that magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides highly accurate measurements of the actual tumor volume. The purpose of this study was to: (a) compare the accuracy of PE and MR in predicting outcome, and (b) correlate tumor measurements by PE versus MR. Methods and Materials: Tumor measurements were performed prospectively in 43 patients with advanced cervical cancer. MR and PE were performed at the same time intervals: (a) at the start of RT, (b) after 20-24 Gy/2-2.5 weeks, (c) after 40-50 Gy/4-5 weeks, and (d) at follow-up (1-2 months after RT completion ). PE measured tumor diameters in anteroposterior, lateral, and craniocaudal direction, and PE-derived tumor size was computed as maximum diameter, average diameter, and ellipsoid volume. MR-derived tumor size was calculated by summation of the tumor areas in each section and multiplication by the section thickness. Tumor regression during RT was calculated for each method as percentage of initial volume. The measurements were correlated with local failure and disease-free survival. Median follow-up was 29 months (range: 9-56 months). Results: Prediction of local control: Overall, tumor regression rate (rapid versus slow) was more precise than the initial tumor size in the prediction of outcome. MR provided a more accurate and earlier prediction of local control (at 2-2.5 weeks, and at 4-5 weeks of RT) than PE (only at follow-up). Based on the initial tumor size, MR was also better than PE in predicting disease-free survival and local control, particularly in large ( ≥100 cm 3 ) tumors. Size correlation: Tumor size (maximum diameter, average diameter, volume) by PE and MR did not correlate well (r = 0.51, 0.61, and 0.58, respectively). When using MR measurements as a reference, PE tended to overestimate intermediate-size (40-99 cm 3 ) tumors. Conclusion: This preliminary study suggests that increased precision of tumor volume measurement leads to more accurate and earlier prediction of outcome in cervical cancer. MR tumor volumetry may be useful as an adjunct to PE in selected cases, and holds the potential to impact therapeutic decision-making.
Recombinant chimeric western and eastern equine encephalitis viruses as potential vaccine candidates

Chimeric cDNA clones, pMWE1000 and pMWE2000, differing by five nucleotides at their 5' termini, were constructed of the 5' two-thirds of the western equine encephalitis (WEE) virus genome (encoding nonstructural proteins) and the 3' one-third of the eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus genome (encoding structural proteins). The WEE virus sequences were derived from full-length cDNA clones, pWE1000 and pWE2000, which were isogenic except for five nucleotide differences at their 5' termini and were responsible for significant differences in mouse virulence. Each cDNA clone was placed downstream from a T7 promoter to allow in vitro transcription of full-length RNA. Transfection of BHK-21 cells with the chimeric RNA by electroporation gave rise to high-titer infectious virus. The in vitro characteristics of each chimera virus were determined by electrophoretic analysis of its structural proteins, plaque morphology, neutralization characteristics, replication kinetics, and rate of viral RNA synthesis. With the exception of plaque morphology, the in vitro characteristics of MWE1000 and MWE2000 were indistinguishable from the parental EEE virus. Subcutaneous inoculation of 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice with varying doses of MWE1000 or MWE2000 virus demonstrated that both chimeric viruses were significantly attenuated compared to the parental WEE virus (Cba 87) and EEE virus (PE-6). Animals infected with 10(5) PFU or more of either MWE1000 or MWE2000 were completely protected from lethal challenge with the virulent EEE virus, FL91-4679, but were not protected from virulent WEE virus Cba 87 challenge. Construction of viable virus chimeras often results in attenuated viruses that may hold promise as genetically engineered alphavirus vaccine candidates (R. J. Kuhn, D. E. Griffin, K. E. Owen, H. G. M. Niesters, and J. H. Strauss, 1996, J. Virol. 70, 7900-7909).
Converging on sustainable placemaking through transdisciplinary process

This research examines the first phase of a multiyear initiative about “sustainable placemaking” processes at a mid-size university in a small US city. The study focuses upon the rhetoric used by five faculty members representing the industrial design, engineering, geography, art history, and political science disciplines who have begun to develop a sustainable design working group whose mission is to produce sustainable design and design process alternatives for the redevelopment of a street connecting the university to the community. Integrating symbolic convergence theory and dialogue theory from communication studies with theory about transdisciplinary approaches to sustainable development, the research describes the extent to which the group achieved transdisciplinary function and articulates how co-creating meaning around sustainable placemaking shaped group processes and outcomes. Findings indicate that shared experiences of “place” and tensions amongst rhetorical boundaries play key roles. Analysis produces lessons learned for similar groups interested in transcending disciplinary boundaries when addressing sustainable development problems.
The Anti-Rachitic Value of Salmon Oil

Abstract In a previous experiment reported by the writers 2 in 1926, a commercial oil, extracted from cannery refuse consisting of heads, tails, fins and viscera (including the livers) of salmon, was found to compare favorably with cod liver oil and greens as a source of vitamin A for poultry. That experiment was followed by the one 3 reported in this paper to determine if the salmon oil also contained vitamin D. For this experiment, fifty chicks, three days old, were divided into two groups of twenty-five each, and placed in a brooder-house which was divided, by a wire partition, into two pens. Light was admitted through large glass windows in the front of the house. The feed supplied during the first week was a scratch grain mixture, consisting of equal parts of wheat, granulated yellow corn, and steel cut oats, which was fed three times daily. The feeding of scratch grain was . . .
Effects of Germination and Dietary Calcium on Zinc Bioavailability from Peas

Bioavailability of zinc was determined by rat weight gain and tibia Zn response from whole pea sprouts (WPS), heat treated peas (HTP) and purified diets (PD1 and 2) supplemented with Zn and phytate for similar phytate/Zn molar ratios (phy/Zn). With diets adequate Ca (0.75%), weight gains from WPS (phy/Zn = 24) and HTP (phy/Zn = 39) were equivalent or better to a nonphytate control (NPC). Tibia Zn decreased in order from: NPC, WPS, PD1, HTP and PD2. At the 1.5% Ca level reduced growth responses from WPS and HTP indicated interaction between Ca and phytate. Zn availability from peas may be superior to that from grains and other legumes previously reported. The decreased phytate and increased phytase resulting from germination may explain the enhanced responses from pea sprouts.
Employment demographics and attitudes that predict preferences for alternative pay increase policies

A survey of 942 university staff employees shows that performance and cost of living are preferred over seniority as criteria upon which to base pay increases. Multiple regression analysis reveals that preferences for performance-based pay increases are most strongly related to perceptions that merit pay does not decrease co-worker cooperation, perceptions that performance differences exist among co-workers, employment in white collar jobs, and never having belonged to a union. Preferences for seniority-based and cost of living-based pay increases are most strongly related to the perceived need for a union, perceptions that merit pay reduces cooperation, education level, and gender. In addition, preferences for seniority-based pay increases are related to years of service.
Improving de novo sequence assembly using machine learning and comparative genomics for overlap correction

With the rapid expansion of DNA sequencing databases, it is now feasible to identify relevant information from prior sequencing projects and completed genomes and apply it to de novo sequencing of new organisms. As an example, this paper demonstrates how such extra information can be used to improve de novo assemblies by augmenting the overlapping step. Finding all pairs of overlapping reads is a key task in many genome assemblers, and to this end, highly efficient algorithms have been developed to find alignments in large collections of sequences. It is well known that due to repeated sequences, many aligned pairs of reads nevertheless do not overlap. But no overlapping algorithm to date takes a rigorous approach to separating aligned but non-overlapping read pairs from true overlaps. We present an approach that extends the Minimus assembler by a data driven step to classify overlaps as true or false prior to contig construction. We trained several different classification models within the Weka framework using various statistics derived from overlaps of reads available from prior sequencing projects. These statistics included percent mismatch and k-mer frequencies within the overlaps as well as a comparative genomics score derived from mapping reads to multiple reference genomes. We show that in real whole-genome sequencing data from the E. coli and S. aureus genomes, by providing a curated set of overlaps to the contigging phase of the assembler, we nearly doubled the median contig length (N50) without sacrificing coverage of the genome or increasing the number of mis-assemblies. Machine learning methods that use comparative and non-comparative features to classify overlaps as true or false can be used to improve the quality of a sequence assembly.
A microfluidic bioreactor based on hydrogel-entrapped E. coli: cell viability, lysis, and intracellular enzyme reactions.

Viable E. coli cells were entrapped in hydrogel micropatches photopolymerized within microfluidic systems. The microfluidic channels and the micropatches have sizes on the order of 100−500 μm. Small molecules, such as dyes and surfactants, present in the solution surrounding the hydrogel, are able to diffuse into the gel and encounter the cells, but the cells are sufficiently large to be retained. For example, sodium dodecyl sulfate is a lysis agent that is able to penetrate the hydrogel and disrupt the cellular membrane. Entrapment of viable cells within hydrogels, followed by lysis, could provide a convenient means for preparing biocatalysts without the need for enzyme extraction and purification. Hydrogel-immobilized cells are able to carry out chemical reactions within microfluidic channels. Specifically, a nonfluorescent dye, BCECF-AM, is able to penetrate both the hydrogel and the bacterial membrane and be converted into a fluorescent form (BCECF) by the interior cellular machinery. These results su...
Tumor necrosis factor antagonism normalizes rapid eye movement sleep in alcohol dependence.

Background In alcohol dependence, markers of inflammation are associated with increases in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is thought to be a prognostic indicator of alcohol relapse. This study was undertaken to test whether blockade of biologically active tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) normalizes REM sleep in alcohol-dependent adults. Methods In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover trial, 18 abstinent alcohol-dependent male adults received a single dose of etanercept (25 mg) versus placebo in a counterbalanced order. Polysomnographic sleep was measured at baseline and for 3 nights after the acute dose of etanercept or placebo. Results Compared with placebo, administration of etanercept produced significant decreases in the amount and percentage of REM sleep. Decreases in REM sleep were robust and approached low levels typically found in age-comparable control subjects. Individual differences in biologically active drug as indexed by circulating levels of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor II negatively correlated with the percentage of REM sleep. Conclusions Pharmacologic neutralization of TNF-α activity is associated with significant reductions in REM sleep in abstinent alcohol-dependent patients. These data suggest that circulating levels of TNF-α may have a physiologic role in the regulation of REM sleep in humans.
Photolithotrophic cultivation of Laminaria saccharina gametophyte cells in a stirred-tank bioreactor

Filamentous cell cultures derived from female gametophytes of the temperate brown macroalga Laminaria saccharina were photolithotrophically cultivated in artificial seawater medium within an illuminated 1.3-L stirred-tank bioreactor at 13°C using CO2 in air as the carbon source. A Monod model adequately described light-saturated growth. The apparent half-saturation constant (Ko) was 23 μE/m2-s, and maximum specific growth rate was 0.15 day−1. At a constant inoculation cell density of 50 mg DCW/L, biomass productivity after 26 days of cultivation increased from 630 mg DCW/L at 18 μE/m2-s to 890 mg DCW/L at 228 μE/m2-s. At 98 μE/m2-s, 1.1 vvm aeration rate, and 250 rpm impeller speed, the CO2 transfer rates (CO2 TRs) and CO2 consumption rates (r) were determined over the cultivation period. At peak CO2 demand, the maximum CO2 TR was 0.19 mmol CO2/L-h, but r was only 0.15 mmol CO2/L-h, implying that the culture was not CO2 transport limited. This is the first reported bioreactor cultivation study of cell cultures derived from a macrophytic marine alga. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
α2 adrenergic receptor dysregulation in depressive disorders: Implications for the neurobiology of depression and antidepressant therapy

Dysfunction in noradrenergic neurotransmission has long been theorized to occur in depressive disorders. The α2 adrenergic receptor (AR) family, as a group of key players in regulating the noradrenergic system, has been investigated for involvement in the neurobiology of depression and mechanisms of antidepressant therapies. However, a clear picture of the α2ARs in depressive disorders has not been established due to the existence of apparently conflicting findings in the literature. In this article, we report that a careful accounting of methodological differences within the literature can resolve the present lack of consensus on involvement of α2ARs in depression. In particular, the pharmacological properties of the radioligand (e.g. agonist versus antagonist) utilized for determining receptor density are crucial in determining study outcome. Upregulation of α2AR density detected by radiolabeled agonists but not by antagonists in patients with depressive disorders suggests a selective increase in the density of high-affinity conformational state α2ARs, which is indicative of enhanced G protein coupling to the receptor. Importantly, this high-affinity state α2AR upregulation can be normalized with antidepressant treatments. Thus, depressive disorders appear to be associated with increased α2AR sensitivity and responsiveness, which may represent a physiological basis for the putative noradrenergic dysfunction in depressive disorders. In addition, we review changes in some key α2AR accessory proteins in depressive disorders and discuss their potential contribution to α2AR dysfunction.
UNRELIABILITY OF ROENTGENOGRAPHY IN ORAL CARCINOMA.

Abstract 1. 1. Roentgenographic evidence cannot be relied upon as the criterion of bone involvement by carcinoma in the early stages of the disease. 2. 2. Present concepts guiding the management of oral carcinoma place much emphasis on whether or not bone has been invaded. In most centers the choice of treatment frequently pivots on this question. 3. 3. Meticulous visual and digital examination of the mouth is found to be indispensable.
A multi-level semantic approach to Korean causal conjunctive suffixes -(e)se and -(u)nikka: a corpus-based analysis

The purpose of this paper is to discuss actual usage of the two Korean causal conjunctive suffixes, -(e)seand-(u)nikka, and to propose their multi-layered semantics based on analysis of corpus data. To account for the functional differences of the two conjunctives, most previous studies focused on different syntactic distributions or semantic contrast by employing an objectivist viewpoint, failing to incorporate the polyfunctionality, semantic overlapping and pragmatic ambiguities of them. This paper advances that the meanings of the two causal suffixes are distributed on four different cognitive-discourse levels: content, epistemic, speech act, and discourse level. Corpus analysis does reveal that all four levels are accessible to both conjunctive suffixes but the difference between the two suffixes lies in the different degree of accessibility of these four levels in their sentence semantics. This finding suggests that we treat these linguistic categories more flexibly by accepting their gradient and pragmatically ambiguous status.
Epidemiology and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance

Bacterial evolution and the emergence of antimicrobial drug resistance continue to interfere with the successful treatment of infections by both community- and hospital-based physicians. Resistance has emerged to even the newer, most potent antimicrobial agents. Although generalizations can be made about the appropriateness of antimicrobial agents on the basis of published susceptibility patterns, significant regional, demographic, and interinstitutional variables exist that require each hospital to establish its own antibiotic data base and antibiogram. In particular, multiresistant pathogens occur infrequently in acute care community hospitals compared with tertiary care centers. Important clinical factors that promote the emergence of drug-resistant flora include prolonged therapy, the persistence of foreign bodies, sequestra, or prostheses, and the inadequate surgical debridement of necrotic tissue or abscesses. Antibiotic resistance may occur through changes in the permeability of the cell wall or outer membrane, by alteration of the antimicrobial binding or target site, and by inactivation or modification of the drug by bacterial enzymes. These mechanisms are reviewed. In particular, gram-negative beta-lactamases, methicillin-resistant staphylococci, multiresistant enterococci, and the emergence of fluoroquinolone resistance are discussed in detail.