cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MetaGSCA: A tool for meta-analysis of gene set differential coexpression

Analyses of gene set differential coexpression may shed light on molecular mechanisms underlying phenotypes and diseases. However, differential coexpression analyses of conceptually similar individual studies are often inconsistent and underpowered to provide definitive results. Researchers can greatly benefit from an open-source application facilitating the aggregation of evidence of differential coexpression across studies and the estimation of more robust common effects. We developed Meta Gene Set Coexpression Analysis (MetaGSCA), an analytical tool to systematically assess differential coexpression of an a priori defined gene set by aggregating evidence across studies to provide a definitive result. In the kernel, a nonparametric approach that accounts for the gene-gene correlation structure is used to test whether the gene set is differentially coexpressed between two comparative conditions, from which a permutation test p-statistic is computed for each individual study. A meta-analysis is then performed to combine individual study results with one of two options: a random-intercept logistic regression model or the inverse variance method. We demonstrated MetaGSCA in case studies investigating two human diseases and identified pathways highly relevant to each disease across studies. We further applied MetaGSCA in a pan-cancer analysis with hundreds of major cellular pathways in 11 cancer types. The results indicated that a majority of the pathways identified were dysregulated in the pan-cancer scenario, many of which have been previously reported in the cancer literature. Our analysis with randomly generated gene sets showed excellent specificity, indicating that the significant pathways/gene sets identified by MetaGSCA are unlikely false positives. MetaGSCA is a user-friendly tool implemented in both forms of a Web-based application and an R package "MetaGSCA". It enables comprehensive meta-analyses of gene set differential coexpression data, with an optional module of post hoc pathway crosstalk network analysis to identify and visualize pathways having similar coexpression profiles.
Laboratory Evaluations in Inherited Metabolic Diseases

Routine laboratory tests are commonly available and include electrolytes, ammonia, lactate, ketones, and carnitine; these are helpful in evaluating whether a patient may have a metabolic disorder. Metabolic laboratory tests are specialized tests that are reviewed by a biochemical geneticist and include plasma amino acids and acylcarnitines, urine organic acids, and acylglycines that are helpful for pinpointing a metabolic diagnosis and/or monitoring treatment. Evaluation of laboratory findings should always include consideration of the patient’s clinical status, such as presence of illness and length of fasting.
Evaluating the Productivity of Collaborative Governance Regimes: A Performance Matrix

Experiments in collaborative governance over the last several decades have transformed the way the public’s business is getting done. Despite growing interest, empirical research on the performance of cross-boundary collaboration continues to be limited by conceptual and methodological challenges. This article extends previous research to develop a performance matrix for assessing the productivity of collaborative governance regimes (CGRs). Three performance levels (actions, outcomes, and adaptation) are addressed at three units of analysis (participant organizations, the CGR itself, and target goals), creating a performance matrix of nine critical dimensions of CGR productivity. This performance matrix is illustrated with a case study of a CGR operating on the U.S.-Mexico border.
SPONTANEOUS AND MUTATOR-INDUCED REVERSIONS OF AN ESCHERICHIA COLI AUXOTROPH II. Acetylornithinase Activity Associated with the Different Revertant Types

Bacon, Donald F. (Yale University, New Haven, Conn.), and Henry P. Treffers. Spontaneous and mutator-induced reversions of an Escherichia coli auxotroph. II. Acetylornithinase activity associated with the different revertant types. J. Bacteriol. 82: 48–53. 1961.—In a preceding communication it was shown that three principal groups of spontaneous revertants from an ornithine-requiring strain of Escherichia coli could be distinguished on the basis of their growth characteristics. They were designated as fast (F) (identical with the wild type), slow-48 ( S 48 ), and slow-72 ( S 72 ). The present paper presents data on the acetylornithinase activities as well as precursor accumulations of typical revertants from each group. The enzymatic activity associated with extracts of F revertants did not differ significantly from those of the wild type; the mean activity of extracts from the wild-type and F revertants was 23 units per mg of protein; the mean activity of S 48 revertant extracts was 0.4 units per mg of protein and, similarly, that of the S 72 revertant extracts was 0.06 units per mg of protein. These are, respectively, 1/50 and 1/350 of the wild-type activity. It was estimated that an S 48 culture in minimal broth accumulated 16 μg of N α -acetylornithine per ml and that an S 72 culture accumulated 60 μg per ml of this compound. Accumulation of this precursor in an F revertant culture was not detected by the assay procedure employed. In an earlier communication we reported that both the S 48 and S 72 revertant types exhibited increasing rates of growth when the growth in minimal broth was followed photometrically Supplements of N α -acetylornithine and of a sterile supernatant from an S 48 revertant culture which were incorporated into minimal broth failed to modify the unusual curvilinear nature of the growth curve. The data on the enzymatic activities and precursor accumulations support the original classification of revertant groups on the basis of growth rates. The total information at hand is consistent with the notion that reversion from an auxotrophic requirement may result in at least three distinct revertant types, each characterized by a unique growth rate, enzymatic activity, and precursor accumulation.
A deficiency in S-adenosylmethionine synthetase interrupts assembly of the septal ring in Escherichia coli K-12.

Summary A mutant in which S-adenosylmethionine synthetase is underexpressed makes filaments with no visible septa. Examination with GFP fusions to various septal proteins shows that FtsZ, ZipA and FtsA localize to the septal ring, but FtsQ, FtsW, FtsI or FtsN do not. The requirement for S-adenosylmethionine suggests that some methylation reaction is required before a complete septal ring can be assembled.
Brief paper: Structural archetypes for coherency

The power system model is divided into a study system (SS) and an external group (EG). Three structural archetypes for coherency (SAC) are defined. Each SAC is a set of structural conditions on the power system which when satisfied cause the EG to remain coherent for disturbances confined to the SS. The validity of each SAC for both nonlinear and linear models of the power system is determined. The SAC provide a framework for comparing the three principal methods of determining reduced-order dynamic equivalents of power systems: coherency analysis, modal analysis and the singular perturbation decomposition (SPD) based on the separation of high and low frequency modes. It is shown that satisfaction of any of the three SAC causes the coherency and modal equivalents to be identical. Satisfaction of one particular SAC, termed strict synchronizing coherency, causes the coherency, modal and SPD equivalents to all be identical. The concept of a hierarchy of equivalents, based on the SAC is introduced and briefly discussed.
Inactivation of the Bactericidal Activity of Human Serum by Liquoid (Sodium Polyanetholsulfonate

Four serum-sensitive strains of Escherichia coli were exposed to 10, 20, and 50% fresh, heat-inactivated, and fresh human serum to which had been added Liquoid at a final concentration of 0.05, 0.025, 0.0125 and 0.006%. It was found that 50% fresh serum (in nutrient, Mueller-Hinton, thioglycolate, or Trypticase Soy Broth) killed more than 10(4) organisms/ml within 3 min, whereas 20 and 10% fresh serum required up to 20 and 40 min, respectively, to kill a comparable number of organisms. To neutralize the activity of 50% fresh serum, 0.0125% Liquoid had to be added, whereas an 0.006% final concentration of Liquoid was sufficient to antagonize the activity of 10 and 20% serum. However, when exposing extremely small bacterial inocula to fresh serum, at least 0.025% Liquoid was necessary to abolish the serum-bactericidal activity of 20 and 50% fresh serum. Liquoid had to be added to 50% fresh serum within seconds to prevent the killing of the majority of test organisms derived from small inocula. It is recommended that blood samples drawn from septicemic or bacteremic patients be aseptically added to a suitable broth which contains at least 0.025% Liquoid in order to improve the chances of isolating pathogens present in small numbers.
Productivity drivers for future system level integration

The extraordinary rate of progress of the semiconductor industry and the promising perspective of continued acceleration toward system level integration capabilities has promoted a rapid separation of content from semiconductor carrier. The value proposition is notably shifting from traditional semiconductor business models to models of 'content within context' value creation. Domains of context will most probably be defined around natural environments such as the home, the office, the vehicle, and the person. These environments are expected to be comfortably and invisibly connected and networked to provide innumerable types of scalable services. The value proposition of scalable services will drive the generation of new classes of embedded system solutions, which will require significantly higher silicon system integration capabilities than ever envisioned before. This argumentative loop describes powerful dynamics of a value system, which propels fast progress on all levels of a value stack, from content oriented services to carrier oriented semiconductor manufacturing. Succinct levels of the value stack can be defined as follows: IP driven services and service applications, software driven system solutions, design driven product solutions, and semiconductor process driven IC manufacturing. Each of these levels provides favorable business opportunities, with differing levels of return on investment. Content focused businesses are expected to gain higher return on investment as compared to carrier focused businesses. The interdependence of all disciplines of this value stack, however, provides a solid foundation for prosperity at all levels. Interdependence is notably the driving force for technology advancements at each level, and efficient hand-over from level to level promotes product creation with the demand of shorter time-to-market.
Thallium(III) Sulfate

[16222-66-5] O12S3Tl2 (MW 696.97) InChI = 1S/3H2O4S.2Tl/c3*1-5(2,3)4;;/h3*(H2,1,2,3,4);;/q;;;2*+3/p-6 InChIKey = BXBMHLIYMZRCNK-UHFFFAOYSA-H (oxidizing agent) Physical Data: mp 102–105 °C. Solubility: sol water, organic solvents. Form Supplied in: generally prepared in situ; commercially available. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: all thallium compounds are extremely toxic to inhalation, skin contact, and ingestion. Toxicity is cumulative. Extreme caution should be used when handling these materials. Use in a fume hood.
Do Hospitals Alter Patient Care Effort Allocations under Pay‐for‐Performance?

Payers and policy makers are increasingly turning to pay-for-performance (P4P) and other value-based purchasing strategies in an attempt to control rapidly growing health care costs and improve quality of care. P4P seeks to improve quality by incentivizing hospitals to allocate additional effort toward specific elements of care that are rewarded with bonus payments. However, it is unclear how payers and regulators should design P4P incentives to motivate hospitals to deliver high-quality health care. Fee-for-service payments, including the volume-based payments used in the Medicare program, fail to provide such incentives. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have been charged with developing value-based purchasing strategies for the Medicare program (CMS 2009). A recent CMS-sponsored demonstration program, the Premier Hospital Quality Incentive Demonstration (PHQID), was introduced with the goal of significantly improving quality in incentivized areas in response to P4P incentive payments tied to hospital performance measured for five common medical and surgical admissions (CMS 2008). Early evaluations of the Premier demonstration find mixed evidence that the demonstration improved compliance with targeted process of care measures relative to hospital public reporting (without financial incentives) of the same measures (Glickman et al. 2007; Lindenauer et al. 2007;). Ryan (2009) finds no improvements in 30-day mortality for Medicare beneficiaries hospitalized with targeted conditions at P4P hospitals. Studies of physician P4P have also identified little response to P4P incentives (Rosenthal et al. 2005; Mullen, Frank, and Rosenthal 2009;). Relatively little is known about why P4P strategies fail to meet expectations. In this paper, we use data from the Premier demonstration to consider a possible explanation for the failure of P4P incentives to motivate improved patient outcomes. We test whether the P4P incentive structure encourages hospitals to maximize the scores used to determine bonus payments by focusing on low-cost, easy-to-improve components of the composite score. We find that P4P hospitals score about 1 percentage point higher than unincentivized hospitals on easy tasks. However, we fail to find consistent evidence that hospitals strategically shift resources to improve scores across three incentivized medical admissions as hypothesized.
Microsatellite single nucleotide polymorphisms in the HLA‐DQ region

Sequencing studies were performed in three previously described microsatellite and minisatellite markers located within the HLA-DQ region, DQCAR, DQCARII and G51152. Multiple nucleotide substitutions that did not change size polymorphisms were observed in all three markers. In all loci, the number of core repeats did not correlate with neighboring DQ allele sequence motifs while single nucleotide changes within or flanking the microsatellite sequence did. This result indicates higher mutation rates for microsatellite expansions/contractions than for nucleotide substitutions in these loci. Further analysis indicated an almost complete phylogenetic correspondence between DQCAR single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and DQB1 sequences on one side (1.0-1.5 kb apart) and a complete relationship between DQCARII and DQA1 sequences on the other (4.5 kb apart). In contrast, G51152 sequences did not correspond perfectly with DQB1 allelic sequences, thus suggesting the existence of several ancestral crossovers between this marker and DQB1 (20-25 kb). Sequencing microsatellites might be useful in disease mapping studies by increasing marker informativeness and by helping in the interpretation of association study results. It is also proposed that SNPs within the flanking region of CA repeats could be used to develop biallelic markers from already available mapped microsatellite markers.
Church Youth Alcohol and Drug Education Programs

This study indicates that pastors believe that their churches should have a role in influencing the alcohol and drug use of their members; that about half of the churches in this study actually had youth alcohol and drug education programs; and that the content of these education programs and church attitudes toward substance use are affected by the degree of fundamentalism-liberalism of the church.
Analysis of protein kinase A activity in insulin-secreting cells using a cell-penetrating protein substrate and capillary electrophoresis

A cell-penetrating, fluorescent protein substrate was developed to monitor intracellular protein kinase A (PKA) activity in cells without the need for cellular transfection. The PKA substrate (PKAS) was prepared with a 6×histidine purification tag, an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter, an HIV-TAT protein transduction domain for cellular translocation and a pentaphosphorylation motif specific for PKA. PKAS was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by metal affinity chromatography. Incubation of PKAS in the extracellular media facilitated translocation into the intracellular milieu in HeLa cells, βTC-3 cells and pancreatic islets with minimal toxicity in a time and concentration dependent manner. Upon cellular loading, glucose-dependent phosphorylation of PKAS was observed in both βTC-3 cells and pancreatic islets via capillary zone electrophoresis. In pancreatic islets, maximal PKAS phosphorylation (83 ± 6%) was observed at 12 mM glucose, whereas maximal PKAS phosphorylation (86 ± 4%) in βTC-3 cells was observed at 3 mM glucose indicating a left-shifted glucose sensitivity. Increased PKAS phosphorylation was observed in the presence of PKA stimulators forskolin and 8-Br-cAMP (33% and 16%, respectively), with corresponding decreases in PKAS phosphorylation observed in the presence of PKA inhibitors staurosporine and H-89 (40% and 54%, respectively).
Effect of incision choice on outcomes in primary breast augmentation.

Background: Capsular contracture (CC) is the most common complication following primary breast augmentation and one of the most common causes of reoperation. Various studies have suggested certain risk factors, including incision choice. Objectives: The authors investigate a possible association between the three most common breast augmentation incisions (inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary) and CC. Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of 197 primary breast augmentation patients treated between 2003 and 2009. Significant CC was determined to have occurred if the patient required reoperation for her CC. Patients were excluded if they underwent an augmentation/mastopexy, had previously undergone breast surgery, or received shaped silicone gel implants. CC rates were analyzed on a per-patient basis with Fisher’s exact test and on a per-breast basis with the Rao-Scott chi-squared test. Results: One hundred eighty-three patients (336 augmented breasts) were included. Average patient age was 36.5 years. Mean follow-up was 392.6 days. Surgical complications included six breasts with CC (1.8%), three with hematoma (0.9%), and one with an infection (0.3%). Transaxillary incisions produced the highest incidence of contracture (6.4%), followed by periareolar (2.4%) and inframammary (0.5%). There was a statistically-significant difference in the incidence of CC among the three incision sites ( P = .03). The increased rate seen with transaxillary incisions versus inframammary incisions was also statistically-significant. No significant association between implant fill material and contracture was found ( P = .27). Conclusions: The risk of CC is significantly higher with transaxillary incisions than with periareolar or inframammary incisions. Level of Evidence: 4 ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
Determination of Adenosine Deaminase Activity in Dried Blood Spots by a Nonradiochemical Assay Using Reversed-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

Adenosine deaminase (ADA) deficiency is a rare metabolic disease causing severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). An assay to determine ADA activity in dried blood spots was developed using reversed-phase HPLC. The assay was linear with reaction times up to at least 4 hours, and protein concentrations up to at least 2.2 mg/ml. The intra-assay CV and the inter-assay CV for the complete assay was 3.5 and 8.4%, respectively. The ADA activity in a control blood spot, stored at 4 degrees C, remained stable for at least one year. Only a slightly decreased ADA activity (35 +/- 13 nmol/mg/h, n = 4) was observed in heterozygotes for a c.704G > A mutation in the ADA gene when compared to that observed in controls (41 +/- 13 nmol/mg/h, n = 108). In addition, increased ADA activity as found in a rare form of congenital anemia can be assessed, as observed in a bloodspot from a patient diagnosed with Diamond Blackfan anemia (ADA activity 150 nmol/mg/h).
Dietary selenium's protective effects against methylmercury toxicity

Dietary selenium (Se) status is inversely related to vulnerability to methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity. Mercury exposures that are uniformly neurotoxic and lethal among animals fed low dietary Se are far less serious among those with normal Se intakes and are without observable consequences in those fed Se-enriched diets. Although these effects have been known since 1967, they have only lately become well understood. Recent studies have shown that Se-enriched diets not only prevent MeHg toxicity, but can also rapidly reverse some of its most severe symptoms. It is now understood that MeHg is a highly specific, irreversible inhibitor of Se-dependent enzymes (selenoenzymes). Selenoenzymes are required to prevent and reverse oxidative damage throughout the body, particularly in the brain and neuroendocrine tissues. Inhibition of selenoenzyme activities in these vulnerable tissues appears to be the proximal cause of the pathological effects known to accompany MeHg toxicity. Because Hg's binding affinities for Se are up to a million times higher than for sulfur, its second-best binding partner, MeHg inexorably sequesters Se, directly impairing selenoenzyme activities and their synthesis. This may explain why studies of maternal populations exposed to foods that contain Hg in molar excess of Se, such as shark or pilot whale meats, have found adverse child outcomes, but studies of populations exposed to MeHg by eating Se-rich ocean fish observe improved child IQs instead of harm. However, since the Se contents of freshwater fish are dependent on local soil Se status, fish with high MeHg from regions with poor Se availability may be cause for concern. Further studies of these relationships are needed to assist regulatory agencies in protecting and improving child health.
A new acanthodian from the Pennsylvanian of Utah, U.S.A., and the distribution of otoliths in gnathostomes

A new acanthodiform acanthodian is described from the lowermost Pennsylvanian of Utah. The specimen is a primitive acanthodid, as is indicated by the posterior position of pelvic fin spine, and is ...
Dynamic distribution patterns of ribosomal DNA and chromosomal evolution in Paphiopedilum , a lady's slipper orchid

Paphiopedilum is a horticulturally and ecologically important genus of ca. 80 species of lady's slipper orchids native to Southeast Asia. These plants have long been of interest regarding their chromosomal evolution, which involves a progressive aneuploid series based on either fission or fusion of centromeres. Chromosome number is positively correlated with genome size, so rearrangement processes must include either insertion or deletion of DNA segments. We have conducted Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) studies using 5S and 25S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) probes to survey for rearrangements, duplications, and phylogenetically-correlated variation within Paphiopedilum. We further studied sequence variation of the non-transcribed spacers of 5S rDNA (5S-NTS) to examine their complex duplication history, including the possibility that concerted evolutionary forces may homogenize diversity. 5S and 25S rDNA loci among Paphiopedilum species, representing all key phylogenetic lineages, exhibit a considerable diversity that correlates well with recognized evolutionary groups. 25S rDNA signals range from 2 (representing 1 locus) to 9, the latter representing hemizygosity. 5S loci display extensive structural variation, and show from 2 specific signals to many, both major and minor and highly dispersed. The dispersed signals mainly occur at centromeric and subtelomeric positions, which are hotspots for chromosomal breakpoints. Phylogenetic analysis of cloned 5S rDNA non-transcribed spacer (5S-NTS) sequences showed evidence for both ancient and recent post-speciation duplication events, as well as interlocus and intralocus diversity. Paphiopedilum species display many chromosomal rearrangements - for example, duplications, translocations, and inversions - but only weak concerted evolutionary forces among highly duplicated 5S arrays, which suggests that double-strand break repair processes are dynamic and ongoing. These results make the genus a model system for the study of complex chromosomal evolution in plants.
Electrochemical characteristic and discharge mechanism of a primary Li/CFx cell

Abstract dc-polarization and ac-impedance techniques were used to analyze the discharge characteristic of a primary Li/CF x cell. In most cases, impedance spectrum of a Li/CF x cell shows a suppressed semicircle followed by a sloping straight line. The semicircle is shown to present a cell reaction resistance ( R cr ), which reflects an ohmic resistance (mainly, ionic conductivity of the discharge product shell) and a charge-transfer process. It is shown that the overall resistance of a Li/CF x cell is dominated by the CF x cathode, whose resistance is further dominated by the R cr that is found to be extremely sensitive to the temperature. Therefore, the low temperature performance and rate capability of a Li/CF x cell are mainly determined by the CF x cathode. In addition, based on the discharge curve and open circuit voltage (OCV) recovery of a Li/CF x cell, we proposed a “core-shell” model consisting of a shrinking “CF x core” and a growing “product shell” for the discharge process of CF x cathode. The “product shell” plays an important role in the discharge performance of Li/CF x cells.
Experimentation and modelling of HTTP over satellite channels

This paper investigates the performance of various versions of the hyper text transfer protocol (HTTP) over a geosynchronous satellite link. Both HTTP/1.0, the currently popular form of the protocol, and HTTP/1.1, the recently standardized form of HTTP, are studied. Next, we quantify the impact of a moderate bit-error rate on the performance of HTTP. Finally, we expand the mathematical model of HTTP presented in Heidemann, Obraczka and Touch (IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking 1997; 5:616–630) to encompasses a wider range of HTTP behaviour. We show this model accurately predicts HTTP throughput by comparing it with HTTP transfers made over a satellite channel. Published in 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An optimal host response to a bacterium may require the interaction of leukocytes and resident host cells.

Bacterial infection results in inflammatory responses that may lead to soft-tissue damage and bone resorption. However, the mechanisms by which different bacteria contribute to lesions of endodontic origin are not fully understood. This study examined the response to Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas endodontalis in two cell types that are involved in periapical pathology, mononuclear and osteoblastic cells. This was accomplished by measuring the induction of chemokines (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, macrophage inflammatory protein-2) and proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interferon-γ). The results demonstrated that S. mutans more efficiently stimulate inflammatory cytokine production by mononuclear cells, whereas P. endodontalis is relatively more potent in activating osteoblastic cells. Moreover, optimal activation of osteoblastic cells by S. mutans requires soluble mediators produced by mononuclear cells, whereas P. endodontalis does not. These results suggest that the association of different bacteria with specific pathologic processes may be partially explained by their capacities to activate specific host cells.
pMG7-mediated restriction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa phage DNAs is determined by a class II restriction endonuclease.

Abstract A class II restriction endonuclease, PaeR7, has been isolated from a Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain containing the resistance plasmid pMG7. The activity cannot be isolated from an isogenic strain which does not contain this resistance plasmid. EndoR· PaeR7 requires Mg2+ for activity but does not require ATP or S-adenosyl- l -methionine. Specific digestion patterns are produced upon agarose gel electrophoresis of substrate DNAs which have been digested with the enzyme. The enzyme is the biochemical basis for the pMG7-mediated phage interference reported by Jacoby and Sutton (1977) . DNAs isolated from restricted phages act as substrates for the enzyme while DNAs isolated from unrestricted phages and phages which have been modified by growth on strains containing pMG7 do not act as substrates for the enzyme.
Crystallization of gel-derived glasses

Abstract The crystallization behaviors of gels, gel-derived glasses and melted glasses are reviewed, and comparisons are effected among the observed behaviors. These comparisons are related to the behavior expected on the basis of models for the nucleation frequency and crystal growth rate, as well as the anticipated differences in material characteristics among gels and the two types of glasses. Different temperature regimes are identified where different comparisons between melted and gel-derived materials are expected. It is concluded that a need exists for more definitive, detailed data on the crystallization behavior of gel-derived materials.
Thermal analysis of poly(phenylene sulfide) polymers. I: Thermal characterization of PPS polymers of different molecular weights

Thermal properties of Fortron® poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) polymers of different molecular weights were studied by DSC. Crystallization studies revealed that the ability of these polymers to crystallize decreases with increasing molecular weight. The Avrami equation poorly describes the isothermal crystallization of PPS. Lamellar crystallization was observed for the lowest molecular weight sample. For the other, higher molecular weight polymers the Avrami exponent is always between 2 and 3, suggesting development of distorted spherulites with heterogeneous nucleation. The temperature dependence of the solid and melt heat capacities have been determined. The solid specific heat capacity did not exhibit a molecular weight dependence. The heat capacity increase at the glass transition, Tg, has been calculated to be 28.1 J°C−1 mole−1. The equilibrium melting point of PPS has been estimated to be 348.5°C using the Hoffman–Weeks method. The Tg of PPS increases with molecular weight. The Tg of the highest molecular weight evaluated is 92.5°C. A DMA relaxation peak corresponding to the onset of the phenylene ring rotation occurs at −92°C. Only the highest molecular weight could be quenched to a completely amorphous state.
Neutral and Cationic Aluminum Complexes Supported by Sterically Bulky Amidinate Ligands

Aluminum complexes supported by sterically bulky amidinate ligands containing terphenyl substituents on the backbone carbon atoms are described. Three amidinate ligands featuring differing substitu...
Recent Developments Concerning the Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes in Polymers

The ability to control the dispersion of carbon nanotubes in polymers is key to most applications of nanotube-polymer composites. This feature article describes recent advances in methods used to disperse carbon nanotubes and considers how these methods affect dispersion on different length scales. It is becoming increasing clear that perfect dispersion is not desired for many applications, in particular for electrical conductivity, and controlling the dispersion is key for proper function of the composite in its intended application.
Enhancing community reintegration after inpatient rehabilitation for persons with spinal cord injury

This article describes factors associated with outcomes after hospital discharge into the community and evaluates an inpatient independent living (IL) program, the Hospital to Community program, for persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). A sample of 234 subjects whose injuries occurred between 1986 and 1995 were included in this study. Factors such as subjects' demographic, neurologic, and psychosocial characteristics were considered as potential predictors of successful community reintegration (defined by decreased experience of handicap in various areas of community living, increased personal control, and decreased level of distress 1 year after injury). Findings suggest that those who participated in the program showed increased knowledge about IL and community resources available to them and considered the program helpful. Those who most actively engaged in the program felt the strongest about its value as a component of rehabilitation that prepared them for community reentry. Although multivariate an...
TECHNICAL ANALYSIS AND GENETIC PROGRAMMING: CONSTRUCTING AND TESTING A COMMODITY PORTFOLIO

Although academic research on the usefulness of technical analysis is mixed at best, its use remains widespread in commodity markets. Much prior research into technical analysis suffers from data-snooping biases. Using genetic programming, ex ante optimal technical trading strategies are identified. Because they are mechanically generated from simple arithmetic operators, they are free of the data-snooping bias common in technical analysis research. Futures prices from 24 markets are used in rule generation. Rules for only two of the markets are capable of generating profits at the 5% level of significance using out-of-sample data, lending little support for technically based systems. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 25:643–660, 2005
A randomized dose–response and pharmacokinetic study of methotrexate for refractory inflammatory Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Background and aims: The optimum initial dose of methotrexate for steroid-requiring inflammatory bowel disease is not known. Aim: To compare directly the efficacy and toxicity of methotrexate 15 and 25 mg/week, and to explore the value of methotrexate blood levels as predictors of outcome. Methods: A 16-week randomized single-blind comparison of subcutaneous methotrexate 15 or 25 mg/week was performed in 32 patients with steroid-requiring Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Patients who did not respond to methotrexate 15 mg/week were further studied for an additional 16 weeks on methotrexate 25 mg/week. Blood was drawn every 2 weeks for methotrexate levels. Results: After 16 weeks, 17% of patients in each group achieved remission; 39% of patients randomized to 15 mg/week and 33% of patients randomized to 25 mg/week improved (P=N.S.). Clinical status improved in four out of 11 patients after methotrexate dose escalation from 15 to 25 mg/week. Toxicity was not different between the treatment groups. Methotrexate blood levels did not predict efficacy or toxicity. Conclusions: For induction of remission in steroid-requiring inflammatory bowel disease, subcutaneous methotrexate at initial doses of 15 and 25 mg/week are equally efficacious. At these doses, response is not associated with blood methotrexate concentrations.
Extinction of problem behavior produces socially acceptable alternative communication1

(1) Will socially acceptable communicative responses be emitted during the extinction of problem behavior? (2) If they are, can these communicative responses be maintained by the same consequences ...
Risk factors associated with breast cancer-related lymphedema in the WHEL Study.

Introduction Lymphedema is a significant health problem faced by a large percentage of breast cancer survivors. The Women’s Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) Study has a unique dataset collected after the completion of breast cancer treatment, which allowed a focused analysis of risk factors for breast cancer-related lymphedema.
Sparsity-based MIMO noise radar for multiple target estimation

We solve a multiple moving-target estimation problem using a colocated multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar system. Each antenna of the radar array transmits noise waveforms to achieve high resolution. These waveforms are further covered by codes that are inspired from code division multiple access (CDMA) to exploit code diversity. We formulate the measurement model using a sparse representation in an appropriate basis to estimate the unknown target parameters (delays, Dopplers) using support recovery algorithms. We demonstrate the performance of the proposed system using numerical simulations.
Teachers' perceptions of school psychological services

Abstract Teachers from two schools responded to a structured interview designed to reveal their perceptions of the roles and functions of school psychologist-psychometrists. Responses of teachers grouped according to degree of teaching experience and amount of contact with school psychologists or psychometrists were compared on five sets of variables pertaining to the psychologist's role and functions. Results illustrate that teachers view the psychologist as a specialist in emotional problems whose major diagnostic procedure is testing, who recommends treatment but does little himself. Statistical analysis indicates that both the factors of teaching experience and contact with psychologists differentiate between teachers' percpions of the school psychologist's functioning. Teacher recommendations for change in psychological services are outlined.
Abstract 1497: Inducing a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition for the targeting of cancer stem cells.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC The occurrence of metastasis and the persistence of chemotherapy-resistant carcinoma cells are the two leading factors that contribute to cancer-related deaths. Both these properties of tumors have been shown to arise from the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process that leads to the generation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Hence, it is believed that eradication of these CSCs represents the most effective way to curb tumor progression and relapse. Recent studies from the Weinberg lab have implicated key signalling pathways in the induction and maintenance of the mesenchymal state, including TGFβ and Wnt. Through this project, we propose to use a number of small-molecule inhibitors of specific signaling pathways, including those mentioned above, to induce a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) in human breast cancer cell lines. Upon inhibition of these essential pathways, the ability of these cells to form tumors, seed metastases, and exhibit resistant to doxorubicin and paclitaxel will be tested. Preliminary results show selective targeting of mesenchymal cells upon treatment with a combination of TGFβ and non-canonical Wnt inhibitors, which appear to induce their apoptosis as well as promote their differentiation back to an epithelial-like state. We hypothesize that upon inducing differentiation of the mesenchymal/stem-like population of the cancer cells using various combinations of small-molecule inhibitors, they will lose their ability to metastasize and will exhibit an increased susceptibility to apoptosis upon treatment with the above-mentioned chemotherapeutic agents. If successful, these inhibitors, or improved versions, will have the potential to be used in conjunction with chemotherapeutic drugs in the clinic to curb the relapse and progression of cancers. The significance of this work extends beyond breast cancers to a large number of carcinomas that have been shown to undergo an EMT, including prostate, colon and lung cancers. Citation Format: Diwakar R. Pattabiraman, Ferenc Reinhardt, Brian Bierie, Robert A. Weinberg. Inducing a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition for the targeting of cancer stem cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1497. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1497 Note: This abstract was not presented at the AACR Annual Meeting 2013 because the presenter was unable to attend.
Does echoic memory develop

Abstract A series of experiments is reported on the stimulus suffix effect with the primary variables being age of the subject (7 and 11 years), rate of presentation, and list length. While the suffix effect was larger for younger subjects at a slow rate of presentation, the effect was nearly identical across age groups with a fast presentation rate. It was concluded that when the contaminating effects of more central processes are reduced, there is no developmental change in the capacity of echoic memory. An interesting effect of rate of presentation is reported with younger subjects performing better at faster rates of presentation and adults performing better at slower rates.
A randomized, controlled comparison of warm water infusion in lieu of air insufflation versus air insufflation for aiding colonoscopy insertion in sedated patients undergoing colorectal cancer screening and surveillance.

Background Pilot studies using a novel water method to perform screening colonoscopy allowed patients to complete colonoscopy without sedation medications and also significantly increased the cecal intubation success rate. Objective To perform a randomized, controlled trial comparing air insufflation (conventional method) and water infusion in lieu of air insufflation(study method) colonoscopy in minimally sedated patients. Hypothesis Compared with the conventional method, patients examined by the study method had lower pain scores and required less medication but had a similar cecal intubation rate and willingness to undergo colonoscopy in the future. Setting Outpatient colonoscopy in a single Veterans Affairs hospital. Methods After informed consent and standard bowel preparation, patients received premedications administered as 0.5-increments of fentanyl (25 μg) and 0.5-increments of Versed (midazolam) (1 mg) plus 50 mg of diphenhydramine. The conventional and the study methods for colonoscopy were implemented as previously described. Additional pain medications were administered at the patients' request. Main Outcome Measurements Increments of medications, pain scores, cecal intubation, and willingness to repeat colonoscopy. Results Increments of medications used before reaching the cecum (1.6 ± 0.2 vs 2.4 ± 0.2, P P P Limitations Single Veterans Affairs hospital, older male population. Conclusion Water infusion in lieu of air insufflation is superior to air insufflation during colonoscopy in the minimally sedated patients (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00785889).
Human DAZL, DAZ and BOULE genes modulate primordial germ-cell and haploid gamete formation

The leading cause of infertility in men and women is quantitative and qualitative defects in human germ-cell (oocyte and sperm) development. Yet, it has not been possible to examine the unique developmental genetics of human germ-cell formation and differentiation owing to inaccessibility of germ cells during fetal development. Although several studies have shown that germ cells can be differentiated from mouse and human embryonic stem cells, human germ cells differentiated in these studies generally did not develop beyond the earliest stages. Here we used a germ-cell reporter to quantify and isolate primordial germ cells derived from both male and female human embryonic stem cells. By silencing and overexpressing genes that encode germ-cell-specific cytoplasmic RNA-binding proteins (not transcription factors), we modulated human germ-cell formation and developmental progression. We observed that human DAZL (deleted in azoospermia-like) functions in primordial germ-cell formation, whereas closely related genes DAZ and BOULE (also called BOLL) promote later stages of meiosis and development of haploid gametes. These results are significant to the generation of gametes for future basic science and potential clinical applications.
Geochemical evidence for African dust and volcanic ash inputs to terra rossa soils on carbonate reef terraces, northern Jamaica, West Indies

Abstract The origin of red or reddish-brown, clay-rich, “terra rossa” soils on limestone has been debated for decades. A traditional qualitative explanation for their formation has been the accumulation of insoluble residues as the limestone is progressively dissolved over time. However, this mode of formation often requires unrealistic or impossible amounts of carbonate dissolution. Therefore, where this mechanism is not viable and where local fluvial or colluvial inputs can be ruled out, an external source or sources must be involved in soil formation. On the north coast of the Caribbean island of Jamaica, we studied a sequence of terra rossa soils developed on emergent limestones thought to be of Quaternary age. The soils become progressively thicker, redder, more Fe- and Al-rich and Si-poor with elevation. Furthermore, although kaolinite is found in all the soils, the highest and oldest soils also contain boehmite. Major and trace element geochemistry shows that the host limestones and local igneous rocks are not likely source materials for the soils. Other trace elements, including the rare earth elements (REE), show that tephra from Central American volcanoes is not a likely source either. However, trace element geochemistry shows that airborne dust from Africa plus tephra from the Lesser Antilles island arc are possible source materials for the clay-rich soils. A third, as yet unidentified, source may also contribute to the soils. We hypothesize that older, more chemically mature Jamaican bauxites may have had a similar origin. The results add to the growing body of evidence of the importance of multiple parent materials, including far-traveled dust, to soil genesis.
DDT and immunological responses. I. Serum antibodies and anaphylactic shock in guinea pigs.

Serum antibody levels were measured in guinea pigs which had been injected with 10 to 20 mg/kg of DDT prior to add following immunization with diphtheria toxoid. Protection of animals from injected toxin, neutralization of toxin in vitro, and magnitude of γ-globulin fraction were the factors which indicated the antitoxin levels unaltered by DDT administration. The anaphylactic shock induced in the same animals by a challenge with diphtheria toxoid was markedly reduced in the DDT-treated animals. Reduced severity of the shock was also noted when DDT was injected for only three days prior to the induction of anaphylaxis: 63% of the control animals died, whereas only 22% of the DDT-treated animals died. As the antibody level was not affected, the results suggest a direct effect by DDT on the mechanism of anaphylaxis.
Using diluted master nanocomposites to achieve grain refinement and mechanical property enhancement in as-cast Al–9Mg

Abstract The grain refinement and mechanical property enhancement in ultrasonically prepared metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs) were studied in an Al–9Mg matrix with TiC0.7N0.3 nanoparticle additions. Also, the ability to add pieces of previously prepared, higher concentration master MMNCs to melt for a lower final nanoparticle concentration MMNC was shown to be possible. Al–9Mg + 1.5 vol.% TiC0.7N0.3 nanocomposites were shown to have significantly reduced grain sizes and enhanced mechanical properties compared to the reference Al–9Mg samples. When pieces of the original Al–9Mg + 1.5 vol.% TiC0.7N0.3 were added to additional Al–9Mg melt for final nanoparticle concentrations of 0.2% and 0.5% by volume, much of the grain refinement and mechanical property enhancement was again observed. For comparison, samples were also made with a commercial Al–5Ti–1B grain refiner. The conventional Al–5Ti–1B grain refiner did achieve similar grain refinement; however this did not result in the same enhancement in strength and ductility. This “master nanocomposite” approach has great potential for bringing MMNC usage to the industrial stage.