cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Remarking on a blackened eye: Persifor Frazer's blow-by-blow account of a fistfight with his dear friend Edward Drinker Cope

Edward Drinker Cope, a brilliant and prolific American naturalist, was notoriously combative. His infamous feud with Yale paleontologist Othniel Charles Marsh, which played out publicly on the front pages of the New York Herald, was one of the worst scandals of nineteenth-century American science. Cope did not fight exclusively with his pen, however. In 1888, for example, he traded blows with his close friend Persifor Frazer over a matter of honor at the entrance of Philadelphia's hallowed Philosophical Hall, just as a meeting of the American Philosophical Society was getting under way. A six-page letter, handwritten by Persifor Frazer and housed in the Frazer Family Papers at the University of Pennsylvania, details the circumstances of their quarrel. An annotated transcription of Frazer's letter appears here.
Assessing the Risk of Fires Systemically

The risks of fire, from either natural or man-made causes, can never be completely eliminated. The objective of control of risk from fires is to reduce the probability and consequences of events leading to fires to a level where the residual risks are commensurate with the benefits of society's undertakings. Involuntary and inequitably distributed risks must be considered as well as voluntary ones. On a systemic level, the causes of fires may be identified and the risk of their occurrence estimated. This need not be done in detail, but major contributors to accidental and purposeful fires can be identified, especially in buildings. A second step is addressing control through prevention and mitigation during and after occurrence. The cost-effectiveness of the risk reduction of these approaches provides a first-level ordering of where to apply resources. The ability to implement such control actions realistically through standards. inspections, building codes, and so on, provides a means for reordering priorities. The impact of acceptable levels of risk, established by societal requirements through the voluntary standard-setting process, is also addressed. Both acceptance and achievement standards are discussed.
Chapter 24. Drugs Affecting Enzyme Systems

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the different aspects of drugs affecting enzyme systems. Drugs that affect enzyme systems continue to play an increasingly important part of contemporary pharmacodynamics. The greatest effort is being directed toward studies of the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, which represents the rate limiting step in catecholamine synthesis. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of tyrosine to DOPA and is localized in the particulate fraction of the cell sedimenting at 16,000 g. The conversion of dopamine to norepinephrine depends on dopamine β-hydroxylase, a copper dependent enzyme, which is inhibited both in vitro and in vivo by disulfiram. The mechanism of inhibition by disulfiram is related to its reduction to form diethyldithiocarbamate, a copper chelating agent. The compound phenylethyldithiocarbamate also acts in this manner. The administration of disulfiram causes a marked lowering of tissue norepinephrine and a corresponding increase in dopamine levels. The drug has also been employed to demonstrate whether certain pharmacological phenomena are dependent upon the β-hydroxylation process to form norepinephrine. A number of acidic anti-inflammatory agents, such as salicylate, phenylbutazone, and indomethacin have been considered as histidine decarboxylase inhibitors. Their ability to inhibit histamine formation appears to be related to a competition with pyridoxal phosphate for the coenzyme binding site.
Purification and characterization of the catalytic subunit of adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate-dependent protein kinase from bovine liver.

Abstract 1. The catalytic subunit of bovine liver cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (EC2.7.1.37) was purified essentially by the method of Reimann & Corbin [(1976) Fed. Proc. Fed. Am. Soc. Exp. Biol. 35, 1384]. 2. Sodium dodecyl sulphate/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis, sedimentation-velocity centrifugation and sedimentation-equilibrium centrifugation showed that the catalytic subunit was monodisperse. Polyacrylamide-gel isoelectric-focusing electrophoresis revealed the presence of at least three isoenzyme forms of catalytic subunit activity with slightly different pI values (6.72, 7.04 and 7.35). 3. Physical properties of the catalytic subunit were determined by several different methods. It had mol.wt. 39000-42000, Stokes radium 2.73-3.08 nm, so20.w 3.14S, f/fo 1.19-1.23 and, assuming a prolate ellipsoid, axial ration 4-5. 4. Amino acid analysis was performed on the catalytic subunit. It had one cysteine residue/molecule which was essential for activity. Inhibition by thiol-specific reagents was partially prevented by the presence of ATP-Mg2+. 5. The circular-dichroic spectrum showed the catalytic subunit contained 29% alpha-helical form, 18% beta-form and 53% aperiodic form. Near-u.v. circular dichroism showed the presence of aromatic residues whose equivalent molar ellipticity was greatly altered by the addition of ATP-Mg2+. 6. Kinetic experiments showed that the catalytic subunit had an apparent Km for ATP of 7 muM. 5'-Adenylyl imidodiphosphate inhibitied competitively with ATP with a Ki of 60 muM. The kinetic plot for histone (Sigma, type II-A) was biphasic showing 'high'-and 'low'-Km segments. Under assay conditions the specific activity of the catalytic subunit was 3 X 10(6) units/mg of protein. Of various metal ions tested, the catalytic subunit was most active with Mg2+.7. When assayed with histone (Sigma, type II-A) as substrate, the activity of the catalytic subunit was increased by non-ionic detergents or urea. No such activation was observed with casein as substrate.
Affective Correlates of Stimulant Use and Adherence to Anti-retroviral Therapy Among HIV-positive Methamphetamine Users

The use of stimulants has important implications for HIV prevention and care. However, few investigations have examined psychological correlates of substance use and adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) among HIV-positive stimulant users. This cross-sectional investigation examined affective correlates of stimulant use and ART adherence among HIV-positive methamphetamine users. In total, 122 HIV-positive men who have sex with men or transgendered individuals on ART who reported using methamphetamine in the past 30 days were recruited from the community. HIV-specific traumatic stress was consistently and independently associated with more frequent cocaine/crack use (but not with methamphetamine use). Positive affect was independently associated with a decreased likelihood of reporting any injection drug use and an increased likelihood of reporting perfect ART adherence. HIV-specific traumatic stress may be an important determinant of increased cocaine/crack use in this population. Positive affect may increase the likelihood that individuals will refrain from injection drug use and achieve high levels of ART adherence.
Chemical Potential Equalization Principle: Direct Approach from Density Functional Theory

In the framework of the density functional theory (DFT) we develop an approximation in which the energy of a molecule is expressed as a functional of perturbations of the atomic electron densities. The result depends on atomic densities, atomic chemical potentials, and hardness kernels that can be found from the solutions of the appropriate atomic DFT problem. A generalized formulation of the chemical potential (electronegativity) equalization principle is suggested. We show how the energy functional can be transformed into a function of the net charges on atoms and discuss the relationship between our approach and the earlier introduced chemical potential (electronegativity) equalization schemes. We present examples where by approximating density perturbations with the squares of Slater orbitals, we obtain values for the net charges that are in reasonable agreement with experiment. This approach can be used for predictions of the transferred charges in the molecules of any size, and its accuracy can be c...
Protein phosphorylation in Golgi, endosomal, and endoplasmic reticulum membrane fractions of lacrimal gland

Ca2+/calmodulin- and cAMP-dependent protein kinase activities were characterized in two subcellular membrane samples. Membranes from rat lacrimal gland were isolated by differential and density gradient centrifugation into six density windows. The present study focused on membranes from density windows III and V which contain mixtures of apical, Golgi, endosomal, and endoplasmic reticulum membranes in different proportions. Phosphorylation of membrane proteins was measured by incubating the samples in [g-32P]ATP and separating the proteins by discontinuous SDS-PAGE followed by autoradiography. The amount of phosphate incorporated into specific peptide bands was quantified by densitometry. Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase phosphorylated a 52,000 MW peptide in membranes from both density windows with a maximal increase from 0.3 to 66 microM free Ca2+. Trifluoperazine and promethazine, two inhibitors of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases, inhibited this phosphorylation. cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylated a 22,000 MW peptide and a 91,000 MW peptide which were present in membranes from density window III only. We conclude that a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase activity is present in membranes from both density window III and V whereas a cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity is present only in membranes from density window III.
The Uranian Geometric Albedo: An Analysis of Atmospheric Scatterers in the Near-Infrared

Narrowband images of Uranus in the near-infrared from Apache Point Observatory were employed to derive the globally averaged properties of scatterers in the atmosphere in the post-Voyager epoch. In order to best probe different levels of the stratosphere and upper troposphere we measured and modeled the planetary geometric albedo using seven filters ranging from 1.28 to 2.36 μm. Since 1986 there has been a 20-fold increase in the stratospheric haze-column density, while the tropospheric cloud characteristics have remained largely the same. Our results suggest an upper limit on the optical thickness of the lower H 2 S cloud of 15 at 1.58 μm.
Factors Influencing Japanese Women To Choose Two-Year Colleges in Japan

Two-year colleges in Japan have traditionally absorbed the major portion of female college entrants due to long-held gender stereotypes. Recently, Japanese women began to explore selfhood outside the traditional realm of marriage and motherhood. However, two-year colleges in Japan today continue to enroll mostly female students and few male students. Moreover, the general public continues to regard two-year colleges as a place for young women to prepare themselves for marriage and motherhood. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether traditional gender stereotypes continue to influence the decision of Japanese females pursuing a two-year college education. A sample of 214 Japanese female students enrolled in a two-year college participated in the study. The survey questionnaire was developed to examine factors perceived as influential by Japanese women on their decision to choose a two-year college. The questionnaire items were adopted based on a review of literature pertinent to gender roles an...
Lower-bounds on the connectivities of a graph

This article presents a study of the connectivities of a graph as a function of other graph parameters such as the number of vertices, the maximum degree, and the diameter. As a result, lower-bounds on the connectivities of a graph as a function of these parameters are computed. These bounds could serve as sufficient conditions for a graph to be h-edge-connected or k-connected. Consequently, the connectivity characteristics of many of the densest known graphs are determined.
Do health behaviors explain the effect of neuroticism on mortality? Longitudinal findings from the VA Normative Aging Study

Studies have shown that higher levels of neuroticism are associated with greater risk of mortality. Yet what accounts for this association? One major theoretical position holds that persons higher in neuroticism engage in poorer health behaviors, such as smoking and excessive drinking, thus leading to earlier death. We tested this hypothesis using 30-year mortality in 1,788 men from the VA Normative Aging Study. Using proportional hazards (Cox) models we found that one health behavior, smoking, attenuated the effect of neuroticism on mortality by 40%. However, 60% remained unexplained, suggesting that the effects of other pathways (e.g., biological) also influence the relationship between neuroticism and mortality.
Validation of the structured interview for disorders of extreme stress

There is a dearth of valid instruments to evaluate the primary sequelae of sexual abuse. The present study examined the construct validity of the subscales of the Structured Interview for Disorders of Extreme Stress (SIDES), a measure of the associated features of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using a clinical sample of 74 survivors of childhood sexual abuse with PTSD, this study demonstrated that the subscales of the SIDES (alterations in regulation of affect and impulses, alterations in attention or consciousness, alterations in self-perception, and somatization) correlated highly with instruments hypothesized to measure similar constructs. Divergent validity was established for each of four subscales of the SIDES. Findings from this study and other research on the psychometrics of the SIDES indicate that it is a valid measure of the associated features of PTSD in survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Assembly and Transport of Nanocrystal CdSe Quantum Dot Nanocomposites Using Microtubules and Kinesin Motor Proteins

Nature has evolved dynamic, non-equilibrium mechanisms for assembling hierarchical complexes of nanomaterials. A critical element to many of these assembly mechanisms involves the active and directed transport of materials by biomolecular motor proteins such as kinesin. In the present work, nanocrystal quantum dots (nQDs) were assembled and organized using microtubule (MT) filaments as nanoscale scaffolds. nQD density and localization were systematically evaluated by varying the concentration and distribution of functional groups within the MT structure. Confining nQD attachment to a central region within the MT enabled unaffected interaction with kinesin necessary to support active transport of nQD−MT composites. This active transport system will be further refined to control the optical properties of a surface by regulating the collective organization of nQD−MT composites.
Statistical and persistence analysis of high summer ambient temperatures in Athens for cooling purposes

Abstract The increase of living standards in buildings and the recent high summer temperature values have dramatically increased the installation of cooling systems in buildings. Analysis of the summer ambient temperatures is thus necessary in order to provide appropriate information to designers and to investigate possible increasing trends of ambient temperature having an important impact on energy consumption. A statistical analysis of the summer ambient temperature data is presented in order to provide information for evaluation of passive, hybrid and conventional cooling systems and techniques. Multiyear data of Athens, Greece, have been used. No statistically significant increasing or decreasing trend of the hot and very hot summer hours was found. The persistence of high summer temperatures was also calculated and found to be statistically significant. Probabilities of hourly temperatures being higher than a temperature base are calculated for each month.
Annual Award in Dermatology

(Psoriasis) The Department of Dermatology, Baylor University College of Medicine, announces the Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Taub International Memorial Award for Psoriasis Research. This award was established by Carol and Henry J. N. Taub in honor of their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Taub. The establishment of this ten year program carried with it the hope that this award will be the instrumentality by which a cure may be developed to alleviate one of the problems of mankind.
The use of bathythermograms to determine ocean currents

Bathythermograph observations taken during Operation Crossroads were studied to determine the accuracy and limitations of a method deriving ocean currents from these data. The vertical density distribution, necessary to determine relative currents, was obtained from bathythermograms by relating temperature to salinity.
Mitigation of remedial action schemes by decentralized robust governor control

This paper presents transient stability improvement by a new distributed hierarchical control architecture (DHC). The integration of remedial action schemes (RAS) to the distributed hierarchical control architecture is studied. RAS in power systems are designed to maintain stability and avoid undesired system conditions by rapidly switching equipment and/or changing operating points according to predetermined rules. The acceleration trend relay currently in use in the US western interconnection is an example of RAS that trips generators to maintain transient stability. The link between RAS and DHC is through fast acting robust turbine/governor control that can also improve transient stability. In this paper, the influence of the decentralized robust turbine/governor control on the design of RAS is studied. Benefits of combining these two schemes are increasing power transfer capability and mitigation of RAS generator tripping actions; the later benefit is shown through simulations.
Decision making beyond arrow's “impossibility theorem,” with the analysis of effects of collusion and mutual attraction

In 1951, K.J. Arrow proved that, under certain assumptions, it is impossible to have group decision-making rules that satisfy reasonable conditions like symmetry. This Impossibility Theorem is often cited as a proof that reasonable group decision-making is impossible. We start our article by remarking that Arrow's result covers only those situations when the only information we have about individual preferences is their binary preferences between the alternatives. If we follow the main ideas of modern decision making and game theory and also collect information about the preferences between lotteries (i.e., collect the utility values of different alternatives), then reasonable decision-making rules are possible, e.g., Nash's rule in which we select an alternative for which the product of utilities is the largest possible. We also deal with two related issues: how we can detect individual preferences if all we have is preferences of a subgroup and how we take into account the mutual attraction between participants. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic light scattering as a probe of superhelical DNA–intercalating agent interaction

Polarized dynamic light-scattering measurements on superhelical pBR322-plasmid DNA solutions in 0.2M NaCl, 2 mM NaPi, pH 7.0, 2 mM EDTA result in a translational diffusion coefficient D = (3.77 ± 0.10) × 10−8 cm2/s for the native molecule. Modeling the DNA, in the simplest approximation, as a 10 × 440-nm effective hydrodynamic rigid rod yields a good fit to the apparent diffusion coefficient angular-dependence data up to 70°; the model fails at higher angles, probably due to the effects of flexibility or branching of the rod. Diffusion coefficient titration experiments with a platinum complex intercalating agent (PtTS) result in a titratable superhelix density of σ = −0.079 ± 0.008 under our experimental conditions, corresponding to about 34 superhelical turns in the native DNA. The DNA contour length predicted by our two independent results, the rod dimensions and the number of superhelical turns, is in excellent agreement with the contour length calculated from the number of base pairs, supporting the hydrodynamic approximation of an effective rodlike structure for this small DNA molecule in solution.
Cloud-Aided Design for Distributed Embedded Systems

This paper presents how to use cloud computing for designing distributed embedded systems. The cloud is used as a simulation platform. The simulation environment targets the design and testing of distributed embedded systems executing applications that can access cloud services. A networked VP can run on a cloud through the infrastructure as a service (IaaS) model.
Acceleration Algorithms in Monte Carlo Simulations in Statistical Physics

Monte Carlo simulations of thermodynamic phase transitions are usually hampered by long relaxation times due to the phenomenon of “critical slowing down.” Using a mapping due to Fortuin and Kasteleyn, a cluster approach to Monte Carlo simulations has been developed, which greatly reduces relaxation times, improving efficiency by up to two or three orders of magnitude. New developments and extensions of this approach are also discussed.
Knowledge Spillovers and Inequality

We develop a dynamic model with knowledge spillovers in production. The model contains two opposing forces. Imitation of otherfirms helps followers catch up with leaders, but the prospect of doing so makes followers want to free ride. The second force dominates and creates permanent inequality. We show that the greater are the average spillovers and the easier they are to obtain, the greater is the free-riding and inequality. More directed copying raises inequality by raising the free-riding advantages of hanging back. Using Compustat and patent-citation data we find that copying is highly undirected. (JEL D33, Ill, 031)
A geographically distributed framework for embedded system design and validation

The difficulty of emb edded system co-design is increasing rapidly due to the incr easing complexity of individual parts, the variety of parts available and pr essure to use multiple processors to me et performanc e criteria. V alidation tools should contain sever al features in order to keep up with this trend, including the ability to dynamically change detail levels, built in protection for intellectual property, and supp ort for gradual migr ation of functionalityfrom a simulation environment to the real hardware. In this paper, we present our appr oach to the problem which includes a geographically distributed co-simulation framework. This fr amework is a system of nodes such that each can include either portions of the simulator or real hardware. In supp ort of this, the framework includes a me chanism for maintaining consistent versions of virtual time.
Determination of trace level mercury in biological and environmental samples by neutron activation analysis

Sorptivity studies with Chelex 100 column indicated chloride to be the best medium for the sorption of mercury. A radiochemical separation procedure has been developed for the determination of mercury by neutron activation analysis utilizing sorption of mercury on Chelex 100. The method was checked with Orchard Leaves and Tuna Fish standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Reputational Entrepreneurs and the Memory of Incompetence: Melting Supporters, Partisan Warriors, and Images of President Harding

"Reputational entrepreneurs" attempt to control the memory of historical figures through motivation, narrative facility, and institutional placement. Whereas the study of those remembered as great or evil draws on Durkheimian Theory's consensus and cohesion, this does not explain the memory of the "incompetent." Reputational politics is an arena in which forces compete to control memory. Reputations are grounded in a social construction of character, subsequently generalized to policy and the character of the society. In the case of Warren G. Harding, the U.S. president rated lowest by historians and the public, political opponents set the agenda, while potential supporters did not defend him, given their political interests, structural positions, and a lack of credible narrative.
Soy Protein Influences Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Risk in Male Lean SHHF Rats

Previous investigations have demonstrated a marked effect of soy protein on multiple physiological parameters associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS). This preliminary study investigated the physiological effects of soy-based diets on cardiovascular risk in a unique rodent model that reflects early stages of MS. Briefly, lean male SHHF (+/cp) rats were randomly assigned to the following treatment groups: casein (control, C); low-isoflavone (LIS) soy protein isolate; high-isoflavone (HIS) soy protein isolate; or C+ 0.01 % rosiglitazone (CR). Rats were fed for thirty-six weeks. Liver weight, heart weight, total plasma cholesterol, fasting blood glucose were lower in soy-fed animals compared to control (p < 0.01). Body weight, kidney weight, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting plasma insulin, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) score were also lower in LIS-fed rodents (p < 0.05) compared to casein treatment. All diet groups exhibited lower urine protein (p < 0.01) and small arteriole content (p < 0.05) compared to controls. LIS feed had a slightly more profound influence on body weight, liver metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. However, both soy diets exhibited marked improvements over a casein-based diet.
7120 The disappearance of india ink.

Introduction Commercially available India Ink has been used by endoscopists to mark or tattoo lesions for subsequent surgery or endoscopy since 1975. In an attempt to reduce the possibility of inflammation and microabcess formation within the gut wall, the ink is diluted and sterilized by autoclave or passing it through millipore filters. We report on a new purified and sterilized preparation of carbon black, the active agent in India Ink, in a suspension with reduced levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Materials and Methods Following IRB approval, up to 10 cc of carbon black (Spot, GI Supply) was injected into the colon wall in 55 patients who had lesions which raised concern for subsequent surgery. Three or 4 circumferential injections were given. Patients were referred for either surgical or endoscopic followup on a case by case basis after histological analysis of the lesion. Results In the event of surgical resection, histopathology from the injection site was evaluated. The sites of injection were right colon, 22; transverse colon, 5; left colon, 20; 8 had lesions marked within 20cm of the anal verge. Thirty seven patients had subsequent endoscopic followup to ensure complete removal of large or difficult to localize polyps (such as those on the proximal side of a colonic fold only visible with retroflexion). Eighteen patients had marking for surgical followup for either polyps not amenable to endoscopic removal or obvious cancer. Ten of the fifty five carbon black injections had surgery at our institution and thus were available for histologic inspection. All slides were reviewed by a single pathologist. Ink was distributed transmurally in 7 patients and submucosally in 3 patients. Acute inflammation (moderate) was documented in 1, chronic inflammation in 5 specimens (2 mild, 3 moderate), and fibrosis (3 mild, 1moderate, 1 severe) was noted in 4. There was no necrosis in any specimen. Complications There were no perforations or endoscopic complications in this series. No patient reported abdominal pain, discomfort, or fever after endoscopy. Conclusion A new endoscopic marker has been developed. It is sterile and pre-diluted and is devoid of clinical side effects. It should replace commercial India Ink which contains shellac, phenol, ammonia, and other unknown and proprietary chemicals.
The WW Domain and its Proline-Rich Ligand in Alzheimer's Disease and Muscular Dystrophy

(1997). The WW Domain and its Proline-Rich Ligand in Alzheimer's Disease and Muscular Dystrophy. Emerging Therapeutic Targets: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 81-84.
Mechanisms governing the formation and destruction of NOx and other nitrogenous species in low NOx coal combustion systems

Abstract The salient fundamental factors that influence the design of low NO x burners and of NO x abatement schemes are reviewed. They have been examined through laboratory combustor studies, which simulate some of the salient features of practical systems, while still preserving flexibility and the ability to extract mechanisms. These studies have shown that coal ignition properties and flame attachment to the burner have great influence on coal nitrogen convention to NO x in axial turbulent diffusion flames. They have also shown that distributed air addition is more effective at reducing NO x formation than simple air staging, and these results conform to field data from full scale applications Short time scale phenomena in the ignition zone involve heterogeneous and micro-scale diffusion phenomena, and the total volatile nitrogen released is only partially converted to NO x even in the presence of excess quantities of oxygen. Micro-mixing also complicates predictions of short time scale phenomena duri...
Strategy, human resource management and performance: Sharpening line of sight

Abstract This paper builds on previous theory and research on strategy and human resource management to identify important linkages between the firm's strategy, its human resources, and performance outcomes. First, we review the relevant literature focusing in particular on the role of human resources in creating competitive advantage. We then present a multi-level model illustrating how human resource management practices can effectively align organizational, group and individual factors with the organization's strategy. We redefine line of sight as the alignment of organizational capabilities and culture, group competencies and norms, and individual KSAs, motivation and opportunity with one another and with the organization's strategy. Further, we propose that such alignment contributes to the creation of human capital and social capital, both of which are necessary to achieve and sustain superior performance. We conclude the paper with some implications for future research and practice.
High confidence software for cyber-physical systems

Many new and planned cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are realized as distributed real-time and embedded (DRE) systems. Examples of DRE CPSs we are interested in include data computing centers and automated warehouse management systems.
Understanding and evaluating systematic reviews and meta-analyses

A systematic review is a summary of existing evidence that answers a specific clinical question, contains a thorough, unbiased search of the relevant literature, explicit criteria for assessing studies and structured presentation of the results. A systematic review that incorporates quantitative pooling of similar studies to produce an overall summary of treatment effects is a meta-analysis. A systematic review should have clear, focused clinical objectives containing four elements expressed through the acronym PICO (Patient, group of patients, or problem, an Intervention, a Comparison intervention and specific Outcomes). Explicit and thorough search of the literature is a pre-requisite of any good systematic review. Reviews should have pre-defined explicit criteria for what studies would be included and the analysis should include only those studies that fit the inclusion criteria. The quality (risk of bias) of the primary studies should be critically appraised. Particularly the role of publication and language bias should be acknowledged and addressed by the review, whenever possible. Structured reporting of the results with quantitative pooling of the data must be attempted, whenever appropriate. The review should include interpretation of the data, including implications for clinical practice and further research. Overall, the current quality of reporting of systematic reviews remains highly variable.
Optimization-based motion prediction of mechanical systems: sensitivity analysis

In this study, we derive sensitivity equations for the problem of optimization-based motion prediction of a mechanical system using the inverse recursive Lagrangian formulation. The simulation and sensitivity formulations are based on Denavit–Hartenberg transformation matrices. External forces and moments are taken into account in the formulation. The sensitivity information is needed in the optimization-based simulation process. The proposed formulation is demonstrated by calculating sensitivities for the optimal time trajectory planning problem of a two-link manipulator. In addition, sensitivities obtained using the proposed algorithm are compared to those obtained using the closed-form equations of motion. The two sensitivities match quite closely. The lifting motion of the two-link manipulator with external loads is also optimized by using the algorithm developed in this paper. More complex applications of the proposed formulation to digital human motion prediction are presented elsewhere.
Abstract 5437: The histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor SNDX-275 enhances the antitumor effect of interleukin 2 (IL-2) by suppressing regulatory T cell gene expression and function

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC In our previous studies we have reported that the combination of IL-2 and the HDAC inhibitor SNDX-275 had an in vivo synergistic antitumor effect in an immuno-competent murine model of renal cell carcinoma (RENCA). The antitumor effect was associated with a decreased number of T regulatory cells (Tregs). In this study we observed that SNDX-275 treatment affects Tregs function by modulating the transcriptional factor Foxp3, a key regulator of Treg function. We assessed the levels of CD4+Foxp3+ cells (Tregs) by fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis (FACS) and evaluated mRNA level of Foxp3 by QRT-PCR. Both in vitro and in vivo treatment of SNDX-275 reduced Foxp3 protein level and mRNA level in Tregs. Moreover, in the RENCA tumor mouse model, by testing peripheral blood lymphocytes, we found that the antitumor activity of SNDX-275 was associated with reduced Foxp3 protein level in Treg cells. In addition, Tregs were purified from splenocytes of SNDX-275 treated or vehicle-treated mice. Regulatory T cell functional assay showed that Tregs from SNDX-275 (5mg/kg) treated mice had a significantly reduced inhibitory activity on proliferating T effector cells as compared to Tregs from vehicle-treated mice. While 20mg/kg dose of SNDX-275 had a dramatic inhibitory effect on T effector cells, lower dose SNDX-275 (5mg/kg) had either none or moderate negative effect on T effectors. Taken together, these results indicate that SNDX-275 inhibits Foxp3 gene and protein expression, which leads to inhibition of Tregs function, in a dose dependent fashion. Tregs-suppressing features of the HDAC inhibitor SNDX-275 provides the rationale to include this agent in combinational strategies involving immuno-modulatory therapies such as IL-2 to further improve antitumor immune response. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5437.
Effects of c-myc expression on cell cycle progression.

Abstract We used targeted homologous recombination to disrupt one c-myc gene copy in a diploid fibroblast cell line and found that a twofold reduction in Myc expression resulted in lower exponential growth rates and a lengthening of the G0-to-S-phase transition (M. Shichiri, K. D. Hanson and J. M. Sedivy, Cell Growth Differ. 4:93-104, 1993). Myc is a transcription factor, and the number of target genes whose regulation could result in differential growth rates may be very large. We have approached this problem by examining effects of reduced c-myc expression in three broad areas: (i) secretion of growth factors, (ii) expression of growth factor receptors, and (iii) intracellular signal transduction between Myc and components of the intrinsic cell cycle clock. We have found no evidence that differential medium conditioning can account for the growth phenotypes. Likewise, the expression of receptors for platelet-derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor I was the same in diploid and heterozygous cells (platelet-derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor are the sole growth factors required by these cells for growth in serum-free medium). In contrast, expression of cyclin E, cyclin A, and Rb phosphorylation were delayed when quiescent c-myc heterozygous cells were stimulated to enter the cell cycle. Expression of cyclin D1, cyclin D3, and Cdk2 was not affected. The timing of cyclin E induction was the earliest observable effect of reduced Myc expression. Our data indicate that Myc contributes to regulation of proliferation by a cell-autonomous mechanism that involves the modulation of cyclin E expression and, consequently, progression through the restriction point of the cell cycle.
Explanation and Value Neutrality

Following the progressive elimination of teleology from the province of the scientist in the seventeenth century, the domains of science and values seemed finally isolated and immune each from the other. Value free scientific objectivity emerged as the ideal, with the very notion of scientifically supported values exploded as a 'naturalistic fallacy'. Finally, the convergence in value theory of intuitionists, emotivists and oxonians, conjoined with the success and influence of a positivist philosophy of science, consummated the separation of science and values. The issue seemed securely resolved. Particularly enthroned was the value neutrality thesis of science (VN) which prohibits the scientist from making value judgments. Professor Ernest Nagel, in his illuminating treatise on the logic of explanation,1 follows the lead of Carnap, Jeffrey and Hempel in opting for this thesis. Most attempts to disunify the empirical sciences, on the grounds that the natural sciences are value free while history or the social sciences are not, he disposes of nicely with an impressive barrage of counter evidence. In particular he correctly rejects the idealist claim that to explain an action one must appraise that action. Hence he rests the unity of the sciences on the exclusion of values.
Neural Network Based Adaptive Control of Piezoelectric Actuator with Unknown Hysteresis

A multi-resolution wavelet analysis coupled with a neural network based approach is applied in the problem of fault diagnostics of industrial robots. The multi-resolution analysis implements discrete wavelet transforms with filters and decomposes the signal in various levels. The approximate and detailed coefficients of the decomposed signals are then used for training a feedforward neural network whose output determines the state (faulty or normal) of the robot. The neural network classifier was then implemented and monitored in a Matlab-Simulink environment using a state-flow model. Validation of the method was performed offline using experimental data obtained from an industrial robot manipulator used in the semi-conductor industry.
Conditioned reinforcement in rats established with self-administered nicotine and enhanced by noncontingent nicotine.

Rationale Nicotine is widely assumed to convey reinforcing properties upon tobacco-related stimuli through associative learning. We have proposed that the reinforcement derived from these conditional stimuli can be inflated by a nonassociative “reinforcement-enhancing” effect of nicotine.
Venus Upper Atmosphere Neutral Gas Composition: First Observations of the Diurnal Variations

Measurements of the composition, temperature, and diurnal variations of the major neutral constituents in the thermosphere of Venus are being made with a quadrupole mass spectrometer on the Pioneer Venus orbiter. Concentrations of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, molecular nitrogen, atomic oxygen, and helium are presented, in addition to an empirical model of the data. The concentrations of the heavy gases, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and molecular nitrogen, rapidly decrease from the evening terminator toward the nightside; the concentration of atomic oxygen remains nearly constant and the helium concentration increases, an indication of a nightside bulge. The kinetic temperature inferred from scale heights drops rapidly from 230 K at the terminator to 130 K at a solar zenith angle of 120 degrees , and to 112 K at the antisolar point.
Accurate and Consistent Microwave Observations of Venus and Their Implications

Abstract We present observations of Venus at six frequencies: 1.385, 1.465, 4.86, 8.44, 14.94, and 22.46 GHz. These were obtained with the Very Large Array and calibrated in a consistent fashion. The brightness temperature of Venus at the six frequencies is derived and compared to a model which includes the emission from the atmosphere, surface, and subsurface of Venus. A single set of model inputs can fit the higher frequency data, where the emission comes mostly from the atmosphere. At the lower frequencies, where emission comes mostly from the surface and subsurface, the model has difficulty reproducing the measurements, and the lowest two frequencies are not reproduced well at all. Improvements in this model over past models include new formalisms for the microwave opacity of SO 2 and H 2 SO 4 and incorporation of measured topography and surface characteristics from Magellan. The inputs to the model which best fit the higher frequency data include a relatively warm temperature profile (more consistent with the Mariner V occultation temperature profile than that from the Pioneer–Venus sounders), a disk-averaged abundance of gaseous H 2 SO 4 of 1–2.5 ppm at and just below the lower cloud layer, and an average SO 2 abundance of ⋦50 ppm for all altitudes below the cloud layers. This H 2 SO 4 abundance is consistent with the values inferred from Magellan occultations, taking into account the differences between equatorial and polar locations. The SO 2 abundance in the lower atmosphere is in agreement with earlier results of P. G. Steffes, M. J. Klein, and J. M. Jenkins (1990, Icarus 84, 83–92), but much lower than the 180 ppm inferred from the Pioneer sounder probe or the 130 ppm inferred from infrared observations. Models with as much as 130 ppm of SO 2 fit the measurements only if the atmosphere is nearly completely devoid of H 2 SO 4 and the temperature profile which is much warmer than that measured by the Pioneer–Venus probes is used.
Modeling in the museum: On the role of remnant models in the work of Joseph Grinnell

Accounts of the relation between theories and models in biology concentrate on mathematical models. In this paper I consider the dual role of models as representations of natural systems and as a material basis for theorizing. In order to explicate the dual role, I develop the concept of a remnant model, a material entity made from parts of the natural system(s) under study. I present a case study of an important but neglected naturalist, Joseph Grinnell, to illustrate the extent to which mundane practices in a museum setting constitute theorizing. I speculate that historical and sociological analyses of institutions can play a specific role in the philosophical analysis of model-building strategies.
Synthesis of Chiral (α,α-Difluoroalkyl)phosphonate Analogues of (Lyso)phosphatidic Acid via Hydrolytic Kinetic Resolution

The hydrolytic kinetic resolution of 1,1-difluoro-3,4-epoxy-butylphosphonate using a chiral salen−Co complex was employed as a key step to obtain enantiomeric diols in 99% ee as key intermediates. The enantiomerically homogeneous (α,α-difluoroalkyl)phosphonates were obtained after selective esterification and deprotection of the corresponding phosphonates. These compounds are novel phosphatase-resistant analogues of lysophosphatidic acid and phosphatidic acid.
Structural similarity in context-free languages*

Divide the context-free languages into equivalence classes in the following way: L1 and L2 are in the same class if there are a-transducers M and M ¯ such that M(L1) = L2 and M ¯ L2=L1. Define L1 and L2 to be structurally similar if they are in the same class. Among the results given below are: (1) if L1 and L2 are structurally similar and L1 has a structurally similar set of (right) sentential forms then so does L2; (2) if L1 and L2 are structurally similar and L1 is deterministic, then L2 has a structurally similar set of right sentential forms; (3) if L1 and L2 are structurally similar and L1 is a parenthesis language then L2 has a structurally similar set of sentential forms; (4) there is a nonempty equivalence class of structurally similar languages that contains no (right) sentential forms of any grammar; (5) if an equivalence class contains any set of (right) sentential forms at all then every language in the class has a set of (right) sentential forms in that class.
Judgmental forecasts in a competitive environment: Rational vs. adaptive expectations

Abstract In a competitive environment, judgmental forecasts or expectations affect not only a firm's own decisions but also those of its competitors. They also influence ultimate market outcomes which, in turn, are then used to form new forecasts. In this paper, we use data from a simulated competitive marketing environment to examine the expectations formation process for key micro variables of interest to marketing managers. These include market size, number of competing products, and average industry price. In particular, we test two alternative hypotheses - rational and adaptive expectations - that are used to study how effective and efficient managers are in using information to form forecasts. We find no support for adaptive expectations, but partial support for rational expectations in that decision makers' forecasts tend to be efficient but biased. We discuss the implications of our results for both the relationship between industry competitiveness and forecast efficiency and for improving forecasts within a competitive setting.