cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dexamethasone-induced apoptotic mechanisms in myeloma cells investigated by analysis of mutant glucocorticoid receptors

The mechanism by which the glucocorticoid (GC) dexamethasone induces apoptosis in multiple myeloma (MM) cells is unknown, although previous work suggests that either transactivation through the glucocorticoid response element (GRE), transrepression of NF-κB, phosphorylation of RAFTK (Pyk2), or induction of Bim is important. We studied this question by ectopically expressing mutant glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) in the dexamethasone-resistant MM1R cell line, which has lost its GR. Lentiviral-mediated reexpression of wild-type GR restored GRE transactivation, NF-κB transrepression, RAFTK phosphorylation, Bim induction, and dexamethasone-induced apoptosis. We then reexpressed 4 GR mutants, each possessing various molecular effects, into MM1R cells. A perfect correlation was present between induction of GRE transactivation and induction of apoptosis. In contrast, NF-κB transrepression and RAFTK phosphorylation were not required for apoptosis. Although not required for dexamethasone-mediated apoptosis, NF-κB inhibition achieved by gene transfer suggested that NF-κB transrepression could contribute to apoptosis in dexamethasone-treated cells. Dexamethasone treatment of MM1R cells expressing a mutant incapable of inducing apoptosis successfully resulted in RAFTK (Pyk2) phosphorylation and Bim induction indicating the latter GR-mediated events were not sufficient to induce apoptosis. MM1R cells expressing mutant GRs will be helpful in defining the molecular mechanisms of dexamethasone-induced apoptosis of myeloma cells.
Factors Impacting Agricultural Landowners' Willingness to Enter into Conservation Easements: A Case Study

Agricultural lands offer an abundance of environmental goods and services, yet face residential development pressures. Conservation easements are frequently used to protect both productive land and environmental amenities. The landowner retains ownership, and may donate development rights or receive compensation for permanently limiting development on the property. Focus groups were conducted with agricultural landowners in Wyoming and Colorado to explore factors affecting their preferences for conservation easements. Results from the focus groups reveal that landowners have concerns about providing easements in perpetuity. They also considered public access to and loss of managerial control of their property as obstacles. Focus-group results indicated that landowners valued the provision of public goods, such as wildlife habitat and open space, to neighboring communities, and generally felt something important would be lost to their communities if their lands were developed. Addressing landowner concerns...
Does the quality of the computer graphics matter when judging distances in visually immersive environments

In the real world, people are quite accurate in judging distances to locations in the environment, at least for targets resting on the ground plane and distances out to about 20m. Distance judgments in visually immersive environments are much less accurate. Several studies have now shown that in visually immersive environments, the world appears significantly smaller than intended, This study investigates whether or not the compression in apparent distances is the result of the low-quality computer graphics utilized in previous investigations, Visually directed triangulated walking was used to assess distance judgments in the real world and in three virtual environments with graphical renderings of varying quality.
Theory of terminated monopole

The theory of a terminated folded monopole was previously studied by Josephson. The equivalent circuit used by that author was incorrect for a folded monopole when its arms are of different diameters. By using the decomposition scheme suggested by Uda and Mushiake we have solved the problem correctly. The circuit parameters involved in the theory are discussed in detail to supplement the work of Uda and Mushiake.
Engagement in a profession: the case of undergraduate teaching

professors. The two were talking about the fact that they did not like teaching undergraduates and preferred to teach graduate students, and to do research. They were exchanging pointers on how to get out of undergraduate teaching. One of them was saying that he taught them badly: he reused his lecture notes and didn't try to put anything into it. And so the dean didn't make him teach that course very often. I found myself getting very angry at hearing this, but I couldn't quite under stand why it mattered to me what these guys did in their teaching. And then I realized that I had [formed a conviction] that pedagogy was fundamentally im portant, especially at the undergraduate level. At that moment, something in me said, T don't want to be like them.' It was then that I decided I would think about teaching at a small college." This event, described as a graduate school epiphany by an engineer who went on to become an outstanding teacher at an outstanding college, il lustrates the lack of support for taking undergraduate teaching seriously and aspiring to excellence in it. Yet isn't it worrisome that few college teachers would find the vignette surprising? Unfortunately it is not only university teaching where the central purpose of the profession appears to be compro mised. Physicians find themselves in creasingly in the role of administrators rather than healers, and lawyers com plain about not being able to serve cli ents with the personal attention they ex pected to be able to give when starting their careers. In most professions, prac titioners rarely spend more than a quar Jeanne Nakamura is research director of the Quality of Life Research Center and director of the GoodWork Project's research group at Clare mont Graduate University. The coeditor of "Sup portive Frameworks for Youth Engagement" (2001), she is currently leading research projects on the pursuit of good work in the American col lege and in mentoring.
Hurricane storm surge simulations comparing three-dimensional with two-dimensional formulations based on an Ivan-like storm over the Tampa Bay, Florida region

[1] We provide a dynamics-based comparison on the results from three-dimensional and two-dimensional simulations of hurricane storm surge. We begin with the question, What may have occurred in the Tampa Bay, Florida vicinity had Hurricane Ivan made landfall there instead of at the border between Alabama and Florida? This question is explored using a three-dimensional, primitive equation, finite volume coastal ocean model. The results show that storm surges are potentially disastrous for the Tampa Bay area, especially for landfalls located to the north of the bay mouth. The worst case among the simulations considered is for landfall at Tarpon Springs, such that the maximum wind is positioned at the bay mouth. Along with such regional aspects of storm surge, we then consider the dynamical balances to assess the importance of using a three-dimensional model instead of the usual, vertically integrated, two-dimensional approach to hurricane storm surge simulation. With hurricane storm surge deriving from the vertically integrated pressure gradient force tending to balance the difference between the surface and bottom stresses, we show that three-dimensional structure is intrinsically important. Two-dimensional models may overestimate (or underestimate) bottom stress, necessitating physically unrealistic parameterizations of surface stress or other techniques for model calibration. Our examination of the dynamical balances inherent to storm surges over complex coastal topography suggests that three-dimensional models are preferable over two-dimensional models for simulating storm surges.
Sample preparation for chromatographic separations: an overview

Abstract Chromatographic methods dominate the field of organic analysis. However, many samples are too dilute, too complex or incompatible with the chromatographic system to render separation or detection possible without preliminary matrix simplification and/or preconcentration. A broad selection of the most common, recent and emerging isolation, clean-up and concentration techniques used to prepare samples for chromatographic separations are reviewed.
Changing underwriting practices on underpricing of U.S. global initial public offerings

Abstract We examine the underpricing of U.S. firms that went public globally ( Global IPOs ) between 1986 and 2003. Our results suggest that, when compared to their peers that went public at home, U.S. issuers did not enjoy an advantage in issue costs from their global offerings. Their offers experienced substantial increases in underpricing, which exceeded that of their peers since the late nineties. We observe that the increased underpricing was accompanied by an overwhelming proportion of Global IPOs being underwritten by prestigious underwriters and backed by venture capitalists. In addition, Global IPOs accounted for an increasing percentage of total issues of U.S. firms in the late nineties. Further findings suggest that Global IPOs may be motivated by expanding investor demand under favorable overseas market conditions and increasing visibility through global placement.
What is DNA array

DNA probe arrays - DNA arrays or DNA chips for short have recently emerged as one of the core genome technologies. They provide a cost-effective method for obtaining fast and accurate results in a wide range of genomic analyses, including gene expression monitoring, mutation detection, and single nucleotide polymorphism analysis (see [1] for a survey). The number of applications is growing at a high rate already covering a diversity of fields ranging from health care to environmental sciences and law enforcement.
Insulin Enhances Glucocorticoid Receptor-Mediated Induction of Gene Expression Independent of a Specific Insulin Response Element

Abstract We have established a system in which we observe a synergistic interaction between insulin and glucocorticoids, This includes chimeric genes constructed to contain synthetic glucocorticoid-responsive elements, 5′ of the HSV thymidine kinase promoter and the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene, The magnitude of induction of gene expression by glucocorticoid was dependent on the number of GREs, Insulin alone had virtually no effect on the expression of any of these genes but together with dexamethasone acted in a synergistic manner, This synergy diminished as the number of GREs in the promoter increased, The synergy is independent of promoter sequences other than the GREs and a functional TATAA box. Three different approaches demonstrate that the effect of insulin is not directly on the glucocorticoid signal transduction pathway. Insulin does not change the dose-response relationship for dexamethasone. The effect of insulin is independent of the intracellular concentration of glucocorticoid receptor, The effect is independent of any specific domain of the glucocorticoid receptor. The target of insulin action is likely to be part of the normal host cell transcriptional initiation complex or a putative adaptor molecule.
Application of a quasi-nonhydrostatic parameterization for numerically modeling neutral flow over an isolated hill

A parameterization of the nonhydrostatic pressure was modified and adapted to a nonlinear numerical model of the neutral atmospheric boundary layer. A hydrostatic model and the quasinonhydrostatic version were used to simulate neutral flow over a symmetrical hill of uniform roughness. Mean-flow quantities and some turbulence characteristics of the flow from both models are presented. These results were compared with observations, analytic theory, and other numerical models. The quasi-nonhydrostatic method produced qualitative features commonly observed in such flows that the hydrostatic model could not simulate. For instance, the observed velocity reduction at the hill base and the speedup at the summit both were simulated by the quasi-nonhydrostatic model. However, computation of vertical velocities from the incompressible continuity equation is inadequate above regions of recirculation and presents a limitation to the method.
Tactile vibration: Change of exponent with frequency'

When cross-modality matches were made between a 60-Hz vibration and such other continua as electric current through the finger, number, force of handgrip, and both binaural and monaural loudness, the exponent of the power function for vibration was found to be about 1.0 at 60 Hz. The dependence of the exponent on frequency has been studied in a series of intramodality matching experiments. The exponent appears to reach its largest value in the vicinity of 30 Hz and its lowest value in the vicinity of 250 Hz. The highest value is roughly twice the lowest value. Over the low-frequency range, there is a suggestive similarity between the power functions for vibration and those for auditory loudness. As a vibration sensor, the ear may behave much like the finger.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of novobiocin analogues as potential heat shock protein 90 inhibitors.

Abstract Recent studies have shown that novobiocin (NB), a member of the coumermycin (CA) family of antibiotics with demonstrated DNA gyrase inhibitory activity, inhibits Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) by binding weakly to a putative ATP-binding site within its C-terminus. To develop more potent HSP90 inhibitors that target this site and to define structure–activity relationships (SARs) for this class of compounds, we have synthesized twenty seven 3-amido-7-noviosylcoumarin analogues starting from NB and CA. These were evaluated for evidence of HSP90 inhibition using several biological assays including inhibition of cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest, induction of the heat shock response, inhibition of luciferase-refolding in vitro, and depletion of the HSP90 client protein c-erbB-2/HER-2/neu (HER2). This SAR study revealed that a substantial increase in biological activity can be achieved by introduction of an indole-2-carboxamide group in place of 4-hydroxy-isopentylbenzamido group at C-3 of NB in addition to removal/derivatization of the 4-hydroxyl group from the coumarin ring. Methylation of the 4-hydroxyl group in the coumarin moiety moderately increased biological activity as shown by compounds 11 and 13 . Our most potent new analogue 19 demonstrated biological activities consistent with known HSP90-binding agents, but with greater potency than NB.
Electrospinning and Stabilization of Fully Hydrolyzed Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Fibers

Fully (99+ %) hydrolyzed poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was electrospun from water using Triton X-100 surfactant to lower the surface tension. The diameter of the electrospun PVA fibers ranged from 100 to 700 nm. Treatment of the PVA fiber mats with methanol for 8 h stabilized the fibers against disintegration in contact with water. In addition, the mats showed increased mechanical strength due to increased crystallinity following post-spinning treatment with methanol. We suggest that methanol treatment serves to increase the degree of crystallinity, and hence the number of physical cross-links in the electrospun PVA fibers. This may occur by removal of residual water within the fibers by the alcohol, allowing PVA−water hydrogen bonding to be replaced by intermolecular polymer hydrogen bonding resulting in additional crystallization. Potential applications of electrospun PVA include filters, precursors to graphitic fibers, and biomedical materials.
Microstimulation of V1 delays visually guided saccades: a parametric evaluation of delay fields

Electrical microstimulation of macaque striate cortex (area V1) delays the execution of saccadic eye movements made to a visual target placed in the receptive field of the stimulated neurons. The region of visual space within which saccades are delayed is called a delay field. We examined the effects of changing the parameters of stimulation and target size on the size of a delay field. Rhesus monkeys were required to generate a saccadic eye movement to a punctate and white visual target presented within or outside the receptive field of the neurons under study. On 50% of trials, a train of stimulation consisting of 0.2-ms anode-first pulses was delivered to the neurons before the onset of the visual target. Stimulations were performed in the operculum at 0.9–2.0 mm below the cortical surface. It was found that increases in current (50–100 μA), pulse frequency (100–300 Hz), or train duration (75–300 ms) increased the size of a delay field and increases in target size (0.1°–0.2° of visual angle) decreased the size of a delay field. Delay fields varied in size between 0.1 and 0.6° of visual angle. These results are related to the properties of phosphenes induced by electrical stimulation of V1 in humans and compared to the interference effects observed following transcranial magnetic stimulation of human V1.
Development and application of a real-time quantitative PCR assay for determining CYP1A transcripts in three genera of salmonids.

Abstract The expression of CYP1A (cytochrome P450 1A) can be induced by a large array of aromatic and organic compounds in teleost fishes. We developed a real-time quantitative PCR assay useful for measuring β-naphthoflavone (BNF) induction of liver CYP1A mRNA in four salmonid species. First, to obtain necessary information for the design of a cRNA standard, full-length CYP1A cDNA sequences were determined for two Salvelinus species, lake trout (S. namaycush) and brook trout (S. fontinalis). Each cDNA was found to share the same characteristics with known CYP1A sequences of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): a start codon, conserved heme-binding region, putative poly-adenylation signal, stop codon, relatively long 3′-untranslated region (UTR; >1 kb), and a protein length of 523 amino acid residues. The brook trout and lake trout CYP1A cDNA’s were 2636 and 2672 base pairs (bp) in length and shared greater than 97% coding region sequence identity with Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout CYP1A’s. Next, using the generated sequence information, we developed a CYP1A-specific real-time quantitative PCR assay. Primers and a fluorescent-labeled probe were designed from a 68 bp region that was found to be conserved among salmonid CYP1A genes. The assay was designed to allow for simultaneous comparison of CYP1A expression among each experimental group. Finally, groups (n=4–8) of hatchery-raised Atlantic salmon, brook trout, lake trout, and rainbow trout were given an intraperitoneal injection of a corn oil control, 25 mg kg−1 BNF, or 50 mg kg−1 BNF and sacrificed after 48 h. Liver tissue was collected and CYP1A mRNA levels were estimated. In all species, BNF treated fish showed 1.8–3.0 orders of magnitude higher CYP1A than control fish. The CYP1A induction levels were not different in fish treated with both dosages. Mean base levels of CYP1A expression ranged from 7.24×106 (rainbow trout) to 1.05×107 (brook trout) transcripts μg−1 total RNA. Mean induced levels of CYP1A expression ranged from 1.07×108 (lake trout) to 1.05×109 (brook trout) trancripts μg−1 total RNA.
Macromolecular deformation in periodic extensional flows

The response of a dumbbell model for dilute polymer solutions is examined for periodic sequences of homogeneous flows chosen to approximate the unsteady kinematics appropriate for flow through porous media. The evolution of particle shape depends on the kinematic history of the flow and on microrheological properties of the dumbbell such as a variable friction factor and a nonlinear spring. The effect of vorticity on macromolecular stretching is found to differ qualitatively from results for steady flows, and “entrance” effects that persist over timescales much larger than the intrinsic macromolecular relaxation time are observed.
Effects of Guided Cooperative Questioning on Children's Knowledge Construction.

Abstract Thirty-four fifth graders in three conditions worked in pairs to learn science material presented in classroom lessons. To stimulate discussion, they asked each other questions and answered their partners' questions. Partners in two guided questioning conditions were trained to generate thought-provoking questions and then used either very structured questions such as “Why is … important?” and “What would happen if … ?” (highly elaborated question stems) or signal words such as why, what, and how (less elaborated question stems) to guide their question generation. Partners in an unguided questioning condition were simply directed to ask and answer each other's questions without guidance. Children who used highly elaborated question stems outperformed those using less elaborated stems and the unguided questioners on (a) explanations provided during discussion, (b) posttest comprehension, and (c) knowledge mapping. Findings indicate that in cooperative discussion contexts structured guidance in ask...
Thermal shock resistance of Mg-PSZ

The thermal shock resistance (TSR) of Mg-PSZ (a partially stabilized ZrO2) containing either tetragonal t- or monoclinic m-ZrO2 precipitates was studied. The samples containing t-ZrO2 had superior TSR, particularly in having a higher retained strength after thermal fracture had been initiated. The t-ZrO2 in the surface regions of shocked samples transformed to a new polymorph with orthorhombic (o) symmetry; the stress-induced t → o transformation may be responsible in part for the improved TSR in samples containing t-ZrO2 compared to those in which all the particles have m symmetry.
On the characteristics of linear optimal systems

Abstract The characteristics of linear systems with constant inputs which are optimal with respect to an infinite terminal time, quadratic performance index are studied. An especially simple standard form of the algebraic Riccati equation is used to determine relationships between the performance index parameters and the normalized characteristic polynomial of the optimal system. The parameters corresponding to several standard forms of this polynomial are ascertained. Design guidelines are then given which allow the correlation of performance index parameters with the shape of the step function response.
Ethical Dilemmas in Health Care Reform

This investigation examines the field of ethics as it relates to new trends in health care service delivery in the United States. Such new trends include managed care and managed competition. The ethical dilemmas which have been posed by these health care reform trends are problematic.
Critical examination of factors affecting interaction on CMC

This study examines how computer-mediated communication (CMC) systems, e-mail, bulletin board, real time discussion and listserv, enhance and inhibit on-line interaction from four theoretical constructs and four different types of interaction. A comprehensive search of the ERIC database was conducted and the relevant studies were referenced for the discussion. Analysis reveals that CMC systems enhance and inhibit on-line interaction. The user's perceptions and the attributes of CMC that enhance interactions must both be examined. The successful use of CMC in the classroom requires the selection of the correct CMC medium and group specific instructional design. CMC does not replace face-to-face communication. CMC provides a more flexible delivery and a greater selection of communication channels for online users. The users are able to optimize their communication, on-line image (face), and on-line impression easier than in face to face encounters that require the simultaneous use of all communication channels. Communication models and distance education theoretical constructs are reviewed.
Up, down, and all around the epigenomic regulation of metabolism

Nuclear receptors (NRs) transduce environmental and metabolic signals into alterations in gene expression by recruiting coregulators that alter chromatin structure. Rev-erbs alpha and beta (NR1D1 and NR1D2, respectively) are heme receptors that comprise negative limb of the circadian clock. The Rev-erbs function in the genome by recruiting complexes containing the nuclear receptor corepressor NCoR and histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3). The histone modifying enzymatic activity of HDAC3 depends upon interaction with NCoR or SMRT, and disruption of this corepressor function alters circadian rhythms and metabolic physiology. In liver, circadian expression of Rev-erbs leads to their oscillating interaction with the genome. At specific times of day the Rev-erbs recruit NCoR and HDAC3 to thousand of genomic sites, with an enrichment for genes regulating lipid metabolism, and with a rhythm that is anti-phase to histone acetylation at these sites. The cistromes of Rev-erbs alpha and beta are nearly identical, and the coordinated activities of the Rev-erbs protect the clock and normal metabolic function. Thus Rev-erbs, NR corepressors, and HDAC3 team up to orchestrate a circadian epigenomic rhythm that plays a major role in the regulation of intermediary metabolism and nutrient storage in the liver. This pathway links the circadian environment to the epigenome, resulting in a daily re-routing of metabolites into lipid versus glucose metabolic pathways that is required for the normal physiological control of metabolism.
Compressibility of nanocrystalline forsterite

We established an equation of state for nanocrystalline forsterite using multi-anvil press and diamond anvil cell. Comparative high-pressure and high-temperature experiments have been performed up to 9.6 GPa and 1,300°C. We found that nanocrystalline forsterite is more compressible than macro-powder forsterite. The bulk modulus of nanocrystalline forsterite is equal to 123.3 (±3.4) GPa whereas the bulk modulus of macro-powder forsterite is equal to 129.6 (±3.2) GPa. This difference is attributed to a weakening of the elastic properties of grain boundary and triple junction and their significant contribution in nanocrystalline sample compare to the bulk counterpart. The bulk modulus at zero pressure of forsterite grain boundary was determined to be 83.5 GPa.
Parathyroid adenoma: Accuracy of preoperative localization by high-resolution real-time sonography

To assess the accuracy of high-resolution sonography of the parathyroid glands, a consecutive series of sonograms in 58 patients was reviewed. The study population was limited to patients thought clinically to have primary hyperparathyroidism and likely to have one enlarged adenomatous gland. Patients with renal failure or other evidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism were excluded. Typical sonographic features of parathyroid adenoma were observed. An overall accuracy of 92% was obtained for the identification of surgically confirmed parathyroid gland enlargement due to adenoma.
Formalism for testing theories of gravity using lensing by compact objects: Static, spherically symmetric case

We are developing a general, unified, and rigorous analytical framework for using gravitational lensing by compact objects to test different theories of gravity beyond the weak-deflection limit. In this paper we present the formalism for computing corrections to lensing observables for static, spherically symmetric gravity theories in which the corrections to the weak-deflection limit can be expanded as a Taylor series in one parameter, namely, the gravitational radius of the lens object. We take care to derive coordinate-independent expressions and compute quantities that are directly observable. We compute series expansions for the observables that are accurate to second order in the ratio $\ensuremath{\epsilon}={\ensuremath{\vartheta}}_{\ifmmode\bullet\else\textbullet\fi{}}/{\ensuremath{\vartheta}}_{E}$ of the angle subtended by the lens's gravitational radius to the weak-deflection Einstein radius, which scales with mass as $\ensuremath{\epsilon}\ensuremath{\propto}{M}_{\ifmmode\bullet\else\textbullet\fi{}}^{1/2}$. The positions, magnifications, and time delays of the individual images have corrections at both first and second order in $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$, as does the differential time delay between the two images. Interestingly, we find that the first-order corrections to the total magnification and centroid position vanish in all gravity theories that agree with general relativity in the weak-deflection limit, but they can remain nonzero in modified theories that disagree with general relativity in the weak-deflection limit. For the Reissner-Nordstr\"om metric and a related metric from heterotic string theory, our formalism reveals an intriguing connection between lensing observables and the condition for having a naked singularity, which could provide an observational method for testing the existence of such objects. We apply our formalism to the galactic black hole and predict that the corrections to the image positions are at the level of $10\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{arc}\text{ }\mathrm{s}$ (microarcseconds), while the correction to the time delay is a few hundredths of a second. These corrections would be measurable today if a pulsar were found to be lensed by the galactic black hole, and they should be readily detectable with planned missions like MAXIM.
Convergent activity patterns: can they alter axon trajectories?

Frequent co-activation of inputs resulting in a selective increase in their efficacy has long been associated with various learning phenomena but it is increasingly being invoked as an explanation for the ontogenetic refinement of neuronal response properties. The actual structure of the young nervous system could be changed by the activity it carries if, for example, two sets of terminals with frequently correlated potentials were reinforced at the expense of other terminals which might fire with equal frequency but in a non-coordinated pattern1.9.10. A recent paper by Udin11 on the inter-tectal visual projections of Xenopus provides very interesting evidence supporting this hypothesis. Udin presents a quantitative anatomical analysis demonstrating quite dramatic changes in the trajectories of axons which carry information about the binocular visual field between the two lobes of the optic tectum. This pathway is one where earlier physiological studies have correlated experimentally induced alterations in the frequency of co-activating two inputs with pronounced changes in the pattern with which they appear to project to their common target area.
Analytical Simulation of the Composite Ice Wall

A system of linear, closed-form stress equations for a steel-concrete-steel sandwich configuration, i.e., the «Composite Ice Wall», was derived incorporating a formulation of classical beam theory. The stress terms include the longitudinal normal stress, the transverse shear stress and the transverse normal stress. These equations were programmed using Pascal and a parametric study was conducted. Some of the results are included herein. The analytical model produces principal stress contours and centerline deflections very similar to those in the classical beam for comparable pressure loadings
Infallibility Is So Damn Appealing A Reply to Ken Wilber

This article is a reply to Ken Wilber's (1989b), "God Is So Damn Boring' and an elaboration upon my original article, "The Deified Self: A 'Centaur' Response to Wilber and the Transpersonal Movement" (Schneider, 1987). The focus of this article is on Wilber's increasing use of pragmatism to justify his metaphysical claims, in particular, "ultimate" claims. This inclination is misguided on several grounds: (a) "'Ultimate" claims cannot be defined in terms that transcend the existential level; (b) "ultimate" functioning cannot be reconciled with concrete (fallible) functioning; (c) "ultimate" awareness cannot be validated scientifically (e.g., phenomenologically or hermeneutically), despite Wilber's efforts to show otherwise; (d) historical sages cannot be clearly differentiated from the psychologically dysfunctional; and (e) motivation still cannot be reconciled with consummate functioning.One always pays dearly and terribly when religions... insist on having their own sovereign way, when they themselves w...
SU-E-J-14: Evaluation of Mechanical Accuracy of Electronic Portal Imaging Devise on Its Use in Patient Specific IMRT QA.

Purpose:Electronic portal imaging devices(EPID) have been used for both in vivo dosimetry and in vitro dose verification in intensity modulated radiotherapy(IMRT). This study is to investigate the effect of EPID mechanical precision on the accuracy of measured dose distribution. Methods:EPID energy fluences (dicom images) of H&N IMRT fields were collected daily on two Varian LINACs (Clinac‐iX & Trilogy) over 4‐week period. The energy fluences were converted to doses using EPIDoseTM (Sun Nuclear Corp). Mechanical deviations of EPIDs could be divided into two components: one with inherent detector center misalignment from the beam central axis, another caused by the ‘sagging effect’ from gantry rotation. The first component was detected by ‘best matching’ of the measured and calculated dose at zero gantry angle (G=0). The second component was computed by ‘best matching’ the 10×10cm field defined by MLC at G=0, 90,180, and 270, separately. A ‘shift’ was generated by the combination of these two components and then applied to correct the measured dose at the corresponding gantry angle for the IMRT field. Results: Inherent misalignment of the detector's center and the ‘sagging’ deviation were found to be 1–2 mm and 1–5 mm, respectively for both LINACs. Each component was found very stable (change < 1mm) over the 4‐week observational period. Using a Gamma index of 2%/2mm (DD/DTA), the ‘shift’ increased the average passing rate from 59% to more than 92%. On the other hand, blindly applying ‘auto‐shift’ from commercially available software to obtain the best match would compound true QA issues with units' misalignments. Conclusions: A false ‘mismatch’ between measured and calculated dose distribution caused by mechanical inaccuracies of EPID could be avoided by measuring the two components identified in this study. One should examine the mechanical precision of equipment prior to clinical use of EPIDdosimetry.
Portal vein embolization: rationale, technique and future prospects

Background: Advances in surgery have reduced the mortality rate after major liver resection, but complications resulting from inadequate postresection hepatic size and function remain. Portal vein embolization (PVE) was proposed to induce hypertrophy of the anticipated liver remnant in order to reduce such complications. The techniques, measurement methods and indications for this treatment remain controversial. Methods: A Medline search was performed to identify papers reporting the use of PVE before hepatic resection. Techniques, complications and results are reviewed. Results: Complications of PVE typically occur in less than 5 per cent of patients. No specific substance (cyanoacrylate, thrombin, coils or absolute alcohol) emerged as superior. The increase in remnant liver volume averages 12 per cent of the total liver. The morbidity rate of resection after treatment is less than 15 per cent and the mortality rate is 6–7 per cent with cirrhosis and 0–6·5 per cent without cirrhosis. Embolization is currently used for patients with a normal liver when the anticipated liver remnant volume is 25 per cent or less of the total liver volume, and for patients with compromised liver function when the liver remnant volume is 40 per cent or less. Conclusion: This treatment does not increase the risks associated with major liver resection. It may be indicated in selected patients before major resection. Future prospective studies are needed to define more clearly the indications for this evolving technique. © 2001 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
Manuel de Amat y Junyent y la Navona de Lima: un ejemplo de diseño urbano barroco del siglo XVIII en el virreinato de Perú

En este articulo se hace un elogio a la labor arquitectonica y urbanistica del virrey Manuel de Amat y Junyent. Con base en documentos de archivos y en un pormenorizado analisis formal de las obras, Humberto Rodriguez Camilloni reconstruye la belleza y funcionalidad que debio tener la Lima virreinal del ultimo periodo. Asimismo, expone las principales razones que pueden esgrimirse para atribuir a este virrey ilustrado algunas obras cuya paternidad parecia estar en duda. Inspirado en los modelos barrocos italianos, a partir de 1761 en que obtuvo su nombramiento, el arquitecto-virrey Amat pretendio convertir “la Ciudad de los Reyes” en una ciudad eterna, como era Roma en el ideal de los intelectuales, pero con una fisonomia propia, adaptada a las caracteristicas topologicas y a las necesidades del reino, con un impulso modernizador que no se volveria a igualar jamas.
Reaction to Global Change Budget

A recent hearing of the Subcommittee on Veterans Administration/Department of Housing and Urban Development and Independent Agencies of the Senate Committee on Appropriations provided an early glimpse of congressional reaction to the administration's global change research budget.
A Unified Conceptual Framework for Geographical Optimization Using Evolutionary Algorithms

During the last two decades, evolutionary algorithms (EAs) have been applied to a wide range of optimization and decision-making problems. Work on EAs for geographical analysis, however, has been conducted in a problem-specific manner, which prevents an EA designed for one type of problem from being used on others. In this article, a formal, conceptual framework is developed to unify the design and implementation of EAs for many geographical optimization problems. The key element in this framework is a graph representation that defines the spatial structure of a broad range of geographical problems. Based on this representation, four types of geographical optimization problems are discussed and a set of algorithms is developed for problems in each type. These algorithms can be used to support the design and implementation of EAs for geographical optimization. Knowledge specific to geographical optimization problems can also be incorporated into the framework. An example of solving political redistricting ...
Total cross-section corresponding to the differential cross-section of lindhard, nielsen and scharff

Abstract An exact expression is presented for the total cross-section associated with the Winterbon, Sigmund and Sanders version of the Lindhard, Nielsen and Scharff differential cross-section for heavy ion-atom scattering. A series expansion form of the same quantity is also given.
Laboratory tests for protein C deficiency

Hereditary protein C deficiency is a hypercoagulable state associated with an increased risk for venous thrombosis. The recommended initial test for protein C is an activity (functional) assay, which may be clotting time based or chromogenic. The advantages and disadvantages of the various testing options are presented. The causes of acquired protein C deficiency are much more common than hereditary deficiency. Therefore, this article describes the appropriate steps to take when protein C activity is low, to confirm or exclude a hereditary deficiency. The causes of falsely normal results are also described, including lupus anticoagulants and direct thrombin inhibitors. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ghetto expansion and single-family housing prices: Chicago, 1968–1972

Abstract Analysis of selling prices of single-family homes in the City of Chicago during the period 1968–1972 confirms that, controlling for structure and other characteristics, price levels and rates of price increase were lower in black than in white neighborhoods, and that blacks were willing to pay more to move into white neighborhoods but whites showed an aversion to living in changing neighborhoods or those contiguous to black areas. Differences in price changes at the white-Latino interface indicate that the most general influence on levels and changes is neighborhood filtering among submarkets segmented by income, race, and other characteristics, but that arbitrage mechanisms must be invoked in the case of the white-black interface.
Breakage of an Embolized Intravascular Catheter Fragment: A Complication of Nonsurgical Transvenous Retrieval

The use of permanently implantable central venous catheters may be complicated by catheter fracture and embolism. Nonsurgical retrieval of embolized catheter fragments is well established, and complications are rarely noted. We report a case in which the retrieval technique led to further fracture of a silicone rubber (Silastic) catheter and embolization to the lung. Silastic catheters may be prone to this complication, and appropriate caution during recovery of such catheter fragments is recommended. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition16:175—177, 1992)
Quantification of radio-tracer uptake in axillary lymph nodes using breast specific gamma imaging (BSGI): benign radio-tracer extravasation versus uptake secondary to breast cancer.

Abstract: To develop a means of quantifying axillary radio-tracer uptake in patients undergoing breast specific gamma imaging. This may help differentiate uptake secondary to extravasation of the radio-tracer at the injection from increased uptake as a result of breast cancer metastatic to lymph nodes. A retrospective analysis of patients who had undergone breast specific gamma imaging was performed. Scans from 26 patients showing increased axillary uptake of radio-tracer were identified from 939 patients reviewed. Eighteen of these patients had increased axillary uptake ipsilateral to the side of tracer injection in the absence of breast cancer on that side. Of these 18 cases, eight patients had pathologic proven axillary metastatic disease with increased axillary uptake contralateral to the side of tracer injection. The maximum signal intensity for each region of increased radio-tracer uptake was measured using the net maximum uptake per region of interest and the two groups of patients were compared. Statistical significance was determined using a two-tailed p-value and 95% confidence intervals were considered statistically significant. The calculated means of the “net maximum uptake per region of interest” in the subjects with increased radio-tracer uptake secondary to radio-tracer extravasation and metastatic breast cancer were 177.89 and 117.25, respectively. Comparison of the means yielded a two-tailed p-value of 0.0498, which is statistically significant. There is a statistically significant greater intensity of axillary radio-tracer uptake when the uptake occurs secondary to extravasation when compared with metastases to axillary lymph nodes.
Möbius sequence: Further in vivo support for the subclavian artery supply disruption sequence

Mobius sequence consists of a congenital bilateral facial nerve palsy and external ophthalmoplegia often associated with malformations of the limbs and orofacial structures. The pathogenesis of the sequence is a subject of debate. However, a new hypothesis proposes that Mobius sequence results from an interruption of embryonic blood supply (subclavian artery supply disruption sequence). Here we present an infant with bilateral facial nerve palsy (VII), external ophthalmoplegia (IV, VI), paresis of cranial nerves V, IX, X, XI, and XII, absence of the pectoralis major muscle (Poland anomaly), terminal transverse limb defects, and absence of the right diaphragm. Also, he was found to have discrete foci of brainstem calcifications in the region of the dorsal respiratory group on both CT scan and the histologic sections with microscopic evidence of diffuse brainstem "injury." The anomalies and histopathology noted in this infant imply that vascular insufficiency prior to the sixth week of gestation involving the proximal sixth intersegmental artery may result in the manifestations presented in this report and lend further support for the existence of a subclavian artery supply disruption sequence.
Analysis of the mRNA coding for the chick vitamin D-induced calbindin and its regulation by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.

Abstract We have used specific cloned cDNA probes generated from the mRNA coding for the vitamin D-induced 28,000-Da chick intestinal calcium binding protein (calbindin) to study the hormonal regulation of the expression of this mRNA by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 [1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 ]. The calbindin-mRNA has been analyzed in chicken intestinal poly(A) + mRNA samples as well as other chicken tissues by “Northern” blot analysis. There exists a predominant mRNA species of approximately 2000 nucleotides and two minor cross-hybridizing species that are nearly equivalent in proportion; their sizes are approximately 2600 and 3100 nucleotides. All three mRNA species are nonexistent in the chick intestine in the absence of vitamin D 3 intake. However, all three mRNA species begin to accumulate at the same time in the chick intestine following the administration of the hormonally active metabolite of vitamin D 3 , 1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 . This response in the intestine is very similar to other steroid hormone-regulated gene products. All three mRNA species exist in the cell cytoplasm and are present on soluble polysome complexes, suggesting that all three are engaged in protein synthesis. Examination of other chick tissues (both vitamin D-deficient and -replete) reveals a close association between mRNA expression and previously observed calbindin expression. Each tissue is unique in the steady-state level of expression of the calbindin-mRNAs.
Similarity-Based Compression of GPS Trajectory Data

The recent increase in the use of GPS-enabled devices has introduced a new demand for efficiently storing trajectory data. In this paper, we present a new technique that has a higher compression ratio for trajectory data than existing solutions. This technique splits trajectories into sub-trajectories according to the similarities among them. For each collection of similar sub-trajectories, our technique stores only one sub-trajectory's spatial data. Each sub-trajectory is then expressed as a mapping between itself and a previous sub-trajectory. In general, these mappings can be highly compressed due to a strong correlation between the time values of trajectories. This paper presents evaluation results that show the superiority of our technique over previous solutions.