cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of immediate cryopreservation on the establishment of patient derived xenografts from head and neck cancer patients

Patient-derived xenografts established from human cancers are important tools for investigating novel anti-cancer therapies. Establishing PDXs requires a significant investment and many PDXs may be used infrequently due to their similarity to existing models, their growth rate, or the lack of relevant mutations. We performed this study to determine whether we could efficiently establish PDXs after cryopreservation to allow molecular profiling to be completed prior to implanting the human cancer. Fresh tumor was split with half used to establish a PDX immediately and half cryopreserved for later implantation. Resulting tumors were assessed histologically and tumors established from fresh or cryopreserved tissues compared as to the growth rate, extent of tumor necrosis, mitotic activity, keratinization, and grade. All PDXs were subjected to short tandem repeat testing to confirm identity and assess similarity between methods. Tumor growth was seen in 70% of implanted cases. No growth in either condition was seen in 30% of tumors. One developed a SCC from the immediate implant but a lymphoproliferative mass without SCC from the cryopreserved specimen. No difference in growth rate was seen. No difference between histologic parameters was seen between the two approaches. Fresh human cancer tissue can be immediately cryopreserved and later thawed and implanted to establish PDXs. This resource saving approach allows for tumor profiling prior to implantation into animals thus maximizing the probability that the tumor will be utilized for future research.
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and mercury in relation to sleep duration and sleep quality: findings from the CARDIA study.

To examine the associations of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCω3PUFA) intake with sleep quality and duration in a cohort of American young adults, and to explore whether the associations of interest are modified by selenium (Se) and/or mercury (Hg) status. The study sample consisted of 3964 men and women from the longitudinal Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, aged 25.0 ± 3.6 at baseline. Intake of LCω3PUFA was assessed using an interviewer-administered dietary history questionnaire at baseline (1985–1986), Y7 (1992–1993), and Y20 (2005–2006). Toenail Se and Hg concentrations were quantified at Y2 (1987–1988). The outcomes were self-reported sleep quality and sleep duration measured by one question for each at Y15 (2000–2001) and Y20. Generalized estimating equation was used to examine the association between cumulative average intake of LCω3PUFA and sleep measures. Restricted cubic spline was performed to explore the potential non-linear associations of interest. Se and Hg were dichotomized by their median values to examine the potential effect modification of Se and/or Hg. We did not observe any significant associations (linear or non-linear) of LCω3PUFA intake with either sleep quality or duration. Also, no significant association was observed in any subgroup classified by toenail Se and/or Hg concentrations. Similarly, sensitivity analysis indicated that the null associations between LCω3PUFA intake and sleep quality or duration persisted across subgroups classified by race, gender, obesity, or having small children. Findings from this longitudinal analysis did not support the hypothesis that LCω3PUFA intake is associated with sleep quality or sleep duration.
Extracellular PKM2 facilitates organ-tissue fibrosis progression.

Persistent activation of fibroblasts and resistance of myofibroblasts to turnover play important roles in organ-tissue fibrosis development and progression. The mechanism that mediates apoptosis resistance of myofibroblasts is not understood. Here, we report that myofibroblasts express and secrete PKM2. Extracellular PKM2 (EcPKM2) facilitates progression of fibrosis by protecting myofibroblasts from apoptosis. EcPKM2 upregulates arginase-1 expression in myofibroblasts and therefore facilitates proline biosynthesis and subsequent collagen production. EcPKM2 interacts with integrin αvβ3 on myofibroblasts to activate FAK-PI3K signaling axis. Activation of FAK-PI3K by EcPKM2 activates downstream NF-κB survival pathway to prevent myofibroblasts from apoptosis. On the other hand, activation of FAK- PI3K by EcPKM2 suppresses PTEN to subsequently upregulate arginase-1 in myofibroblasts. Our studies uncover an important mechanism for organ fibrosis progression. More importantly, an antibody disrupting the interaction between PKM2 and integrin αvβ3 is effective in reversing fibrosis, suggesting a possible therapeutic strategy and target for treatment of organ fibrosis.
Innovations: a futuristic megalab in Wyoming.

Abstract Basic research designed to answer environmental health questions is usually conducted in laboratories at the bench. Bench research allows financial investors, scientists, and society to maximize control over experiments, develop experimental procedures, and test hypotheses in a safe and cost-effective manner. However, results of experiments conducted at the bench may not be representative of what happens when the same experiments are repeated on a commercial scale or in the larger and more complex natural environment.
Forecasting Monthly Cotton Price: Structural and Time Series Approaches

Abstract This paper examines the predictive performance of structural and vector autorregressive models for forecasting monthly cotton prices. Two distinct time periods were selected for testing: a period of major policy shock, and a period of more normal market conditions. The study also investigates a composite approach, using vector autoregressions to determine the future values of exogenous variables of the structural model. Multi-dimensional testing procedures were adopted to evaluate the accuracy of forecasts. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of the structural model in handling major policy changes, while the time series approach shows greater accuracy in forecasting normal price movement. Although the composite approach failed to show improvement in forecasting accuracy, a joint specification of the structural model and the time series properties of exogenous variables may merit further investigations.
A case of auditory auras: application of general principles to define and localize the epileptogenic zone

An illustrative case of auditory aura and complex partial seizures is presented to highlight challenges in the accurate localization of the epileptogenic zone. Application and interpretation of various diagnostic tools is discussed in this case using the North American approach to the localization of the epileptogenic zone. Whenever possible, the differences and similarities between the North American and the French/Italian approach for the localization of the epileptogenic zone are discussed.
Implementation Considerations for Automotive Vision Systems on a Fixed-Point DSP

In this chapter we evaluate numerical requirements for implementation of camera-based lateral position detection algorithms, such as lane keep assistant (LKA) and lane departure warning (LDW) on a fixed-point DSP. We first present methods that address the challenges and requirements of fixed-point design process. The flow proposed is targeted at converting C/C++ code with floating-point operations into C code with integer operations that can then be fed through the native C compiler for a fixed-point DSP. Advanced code optimization and an implementation by DSP-specific, fixed-point C code generation are introduced. We then demonstrate the conversion flow on tracking example (extended Kalman filter) using synthetically generated data, and we analyze trade-offs for algorithm implementation in fixed-point arithmetic. By using the techniques described in this chapter speed can be increased by a factor of up to 10 compared to floating-point emulation on fixed-point hardware.
Crustal earthquake triggering by modern great earthquakes on subduction zone thrusts

Among the many questions raised by the recent abundance of great (M > 8.0) subduction thrust earthquakes is their potential to trigger damaging earthquakes on crustal faults within the overriding plate and beneath many of the world's densely populated urban centers. We take advantage of the coincident abundance of great earthquakes globally and instrumental observations since 1960 to assess this triggering potential by analyzing centroids and focal mechanisms from the centroid moment tensor catalog for events starting in 1976 and published reports about the M9.5 1960 Chile and M9.2 1964 Alaska earthquake sequences. We find clear increases in the rates of crustal earthquakes in the overriding plate within days following all subduction thrust earthquakes of M > 8.6, within about ±10° of the triggering event centroid latitude and longitude. This result is consistent with dynamic triggering of more distant increases of shallow seismicity rates at distances beyond ±10°, suggesting that dynamic triggering may be important within the near field too. Crustal earthquake rate increases may also follow smaller M > 7.5 subduction thrust events, but because activity typically occurs offshore in the immediately vicinity of the triggering rupture plane, it cannot be unambiguously attributed to sources within the overriding plate. These observations are easily explained in the context of existing earthquake scaling laws.
Relation of Perceived Breathiness to Laryngeal Kinematics and Acoustic Measures Based on Computational Modeling

Purpose In this study, the authors sought to determine (a) how specific vocal fold structural and vibratory features relate to breathy voice quality and (b) the relation of perceived breathiness to...
DELTA: indexing and querying multi-labeled graphs

With the emergence of social networks and computational biology, more data are in the forms of multi-labeled graphs, where a vertex has multiple labels. Since most algorithms focus only on single labeled graphs, these algorithms perform inefficiently when applied to multi-labeled graphs. In this paper, we investigate the problem of subgraph indexing and matching in the multi-labeled graphs. The label set on a vertex is transformed into a high dimensional box. The R-tree is employed to store and index these boxes. The vertex matching problem can be transformed into spatial range queries on the high dimensional space. In addition, we study two types of queries: location and existence queries. In this paper, detailed algorithms are provided to process these two types of queries. Real and synthetic data sets are employed to demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of our subgraph indexing and query processing methods.
Morphology of nylon 6/ABS blends compatibilized by a styrene/maleic anhydride copolymer

Abstract Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to examine the morphologies of nylon 6/ABS blends compatibilized with a styrene/maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer containing 25% maleic anhydride (SMA 25). Several staining techniques were employed for identifying the various phases. The morphologies of a nylon 6/ABS blend compatibilized with an imidized acrylic polymer and the commercially available Triax™ material were also examined by these TEM techniques. While increasing concentration of the SMA 25 copolymer clearly leads to more efficient dispersion of the ABS phase, there is an optimum level of SMA 25 to achieve maximum toughness. Various factors that might contribute to the subsequent loss in toughness with higher SMA 25 levels are discussed. It is concluded that the limitations of the SMA 25 copolymer as a compatibilizer stem mainly from its high level of reactive functionality.
Comparison of 2-D planar and 3-D perspective display formats in multidimensional data visualization

This paper examines the relationship between the display representation of a database and the type of task performed with the data in a multidimensional data visualization task. Subjects answered a range of questions about an economic database while viewing either a 2-D or 3-D display of a subset of the database. Subjects'' performance on the questions is interpreted within the context of the Proximity Compatibility Principle, a theory-based principle of the perceptual/cognitive interface. Implications for the design of data visualization display interfaces are discussed.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Limits on orbit-crossing planetesimals in the resonant multiple planet system, KOI-730

A fraction of multiple planet candidate systems discovered from transits by the Kepler mission contain pairs of planet candidates that are in orbital resonance or are spaced slightly too far apart to be in resonance. We focus here on the four-planet system, KOI-730, that has planet periods satisfying the ratios 8:6:4:3. By numerically integrating four planets assumed to initially be in a resonant configuration in proximity to an initially exterior cold planetesimal disc, we find that of the order of a Mars mass of planet-orbit-crossing planetesimals is sufficient to pull this system out of resonance. Approximately one Earth mass of planet-orbit-crossing planetesimals increases the interplanetary spacings sufficiently to resemble the multiple planet candidate Kepler systems that lie just outside of resonance. This suggests that the closely spaced multiple planet Kepler systems, host only low-mass debris discs or their debris discs have been extremely stable. We find that the planetary inclinations increase as a function of the mass in planetesimals that have crossed the orbits of the planets. If systems are left at zero inclination and in resonant chains after depletion of the gas disc, then we would expect a correlation between distance to resonance and mutual planetary inclinations. This may make it possible to differentiate between dynamical mechanisms that account for the fraction of multiple planet systems just outside of resonance.
Stage-specific expression of the intermediate filament protein cytokeratin 13 in luminal epithelial cells of secretory phase human endometrium and peri-implantation stage rabbit endometrium.

In preparation for blastocyst implantation, uterine luminal epithelial cells express new cell adhesion molecules on their apical plasma membrane. Since one mechanism epithelial cells employ to regulate membrane polarity is the establishment of specific membrane-cytoskeletal interactions, this study was undertaken to determine if new cytokeratin (CK) intermediate filament assemblies are expressed in endometrial epithelial cells during developmental stages related to blastocyst implantation. Type-specific CK antibodies were used for immunocytochemical and immunoblot analyses of 1) intermediate filament networks of the endometrial epithelium during embryo implantation in rabbits and 2) proliferative and secretory phases of the human menstrual cycle. CK18, a type I CK found in most simple epithelia, was expressed in all luminal and glandular epithelial cells of both the human and rabbit endometrium at all developmental stages analyzed; it was also strongly expressed in trophectoderm of the implanting rabbit blastocyst. In contrast, CK13, another type I cytokeratin, exhibited a regulated expression pattern in luminal, but not glandular, epithelial cells of secretory phase human and peri-implantation stage rabbit endometrium. Furthermore, in the rabbit implantation chambers, CK13 was predominately localized at the cell apex of luminal epithelial cells, where it assembled into a dense filamentous network. These data suggest that the stage-specific expression of CK13 and a reorganization of the apical intermediate filament cytoskeleton of uterine luminal epithelial cells may play important functions in preparation for the implantation process.
Ethanol production from AFEX pretreated corn fiber by recombinant bacteria

Fermentation of an enzymatic hydrolyzate of ammonia fiber explosion (AFEX) pretreated corn fiber (containing a mixture of different sugars including glucose, xylose, arabinose, and galactose) by genetically-engineered Escherichia coli strain SL40 and KO11 and Klebsiella oxytoca strain P2 was investigated under pH-controlled conditions. Both E. coli strains (SL40 and KO11) efficiently utilized most of the sugars contained in the hydrolyzate and produced a maximum of 26.6 and 27.1 g/l ethanol, respectively, equivalent to 90 and 92% of the theoretical yield. Very little difference was observed in cell growth and ethanol production between fermentations of the enzymatic hydrolyzate and mixtures of pure sugars, simulating the hydrolyzate. These results confirm the fermentability of the AFEX-treated corn fiber hydrolyzate by ethanologenic E. coli. K.oxytoca strain P2, on the other hand, showed comparatively poor growth and ethanol production (maximum 20 g/l) from both enzymatic hydrolyzate and simulated sugar mixtures under the same fermentation conditions.
949 LATE DEVELOPMENT OF FOCAL GLOMERULOSCLEROSIS IN TWO PATIENTS FOLLOWING NEPHRECTOMY FOR WILMS TUMOR

Proteinuria at the time of diagnosis of Wilms tumor (WT) is occasionally seen in patients who may also have other manifestations of the nephrotic syndrome. In such instances of what has been termed the Drash Syndrome there are morphologic changes of focal glomerulosclerosis (FGS). We have recently evaluated 2 children who were not proteinuric at the time of unilateral nephrectomy for Wilms tumor and who first developed signs of biopsy documented FGS 17 and 11.5 yrs later. One patient, a boy undergoing nephrectomy at 3.5 months of age currently has a 24 hour urinary protein excretion of 7.4 gm, hypoproteinemia, and hypercholesterolemia; his serum creatinine is 1.3 mg/dl. The other patient, a girl undergoing nephrectomy at 1.5 yrs, underwent renal transplantation at 21 yrs. Neither had evidence of recurrent tumor or a radiation or immune complex mediated injury. Thus, although FGS may be present at the time of diagnosis of WT in some patients, we have found that it may occur after a decade or more. FGS can be produced experimentally by removal of 3/4 total renal mass. Glomerular abnormalities (microglomeruli) are frequent in the non-tumorous kidney of some WT patients and, combined with the contralateral nephrectomy, contribute to the reduction in renal mass. Increased perfusion of the remnant nephrons may explain the subsequent development of FGS in these patients. Patients with WT should be monitored well into adulthood. Modification of dietary protein intake may affect the evolution of this glomerulopathy.
Negative regulation of human mononuclear phagocyte function

At mucosal surfaces, phagocytes such as macrophages coexist with microbial communities; highly controlled regulation of these interactions is essential for immune homeostasis. Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) are critical in recognizing and responding to microbial products, and they are subject to negative regulation through various mechanisms, including downregulation of PRR-activating components or induction of inhibitors. Insights into these regulatory mechanisms have been gained through human genetic disease–association studies, in vivo mouse studies utilizing disease models or targeted gene perturbations, and in vitro and ex vivo human cellular studies examining phagocytic cell functions. Although mouse models provide an important approach to study macrophage regulation, human and mouse macrophages exhibit differences, which must be considered when extrapolating mouse findings to human physiology. This review discusses inhibitory regulation of PRR-induced macrophage functions and the consequences of dysregulation of these functions and highlights mechanisms that have a role in intestinal macrophages and in human macrophage studies.
A polymeric solution for enriching the phosphoproteome.

Solution polymers such as dendrimers promise to provide valuable new tools for proteomics researchers using mass spectrometry (MS) to probe protein modifications.
The volcanoes of Java and Bali

In this paper a report is given of volcanological studies made in the islands of Java and Bali during the summer of 1928. This extensive volcanic area is an especially favorable region for such studies because the general geological and petrographic features of the islands have been determined and because excellent field work is being carried out by the volcanological survey (Vulkaandienst) located at Bandoeng, Java. The writer wishes to express his great appreciation for the hearty cooperation on the part of Dr. Ch. Stehn, the director of the Vulkaandienst, and all of his associates.
Cognitive-behavioral parenting groups for abusive families

This paper presents a detailed description of a multi-modal cognitive-behavioral group curriculum for abusive parents. The curriculum, piloted with 23 parents, addresses both maladaptive parental attitudes and behavioral skills deficits in the following four content areas: 1. child development, 2. teaching, 3. behavior problem management, and 4. anger control. Specific process strategies for promoting consistent parental attendance at group meetings and minimizing resistance to group content are also described. The integration of this cost-effective group approach into an ongoing treatment program is discussed.
Nonverbal relational control in family communication

A nonverbal component for an observational coding system of verbal relational control, the Family Relational Communication Control Coding System (FRCCCS; Friedlander & Heatherington, 1989) was developed and validated for research with families or other groups. In so doing, it was demonstrated that nonverbal relational control behaviors can be reliably identified and that these behaviors enhance communicative meaning in predictable ways. First, a pool of nonverbal behaviors with relational control meaning (e.g., head nod, raised eyebrow) was identified from consultation with family therapy researchers and from the literature. Second, the behaviors that were retained from the results of a content validity test were perceived by three independent samples as commonly understood, discrete attempts to either gain control (“one-up”) or relinquish control (“one down”) of a social relationship. Still other behaviors were eliminated based on results of a cluster analysis, the interpretation of which was the basis for composing operational definitions for four classes of nonverbal behaviors. Finally, assessments of the interjudge reliability and criterion validity of the nonverbal coding scheme supported its psychometric adequacy. Comparison of effect sizes showed that these discrete nonverbal behaviors accounted for over twice the variance in observers' perceptions as the verbal behaviors.
Growth dynamics of interfacially polymerized polyamide layers by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry

Abstract The synthesis of polyamide films used as active layers in reverse osmosis membranes was studied by in-situ diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Aromatic polyamide layers were formed by interfacial polymerization on porous polysulfone supports using varying concentrations of m-phenylenediamine (MPD) in water of 0.1–100 g/L with a fixed concentration of trimesoyl chloride (TMC) in hexane of 1 g/L and varying TMC concentrations of 0.1–10 g/L with a fixed MPD concentration of 20 g/L. Polyamide growth dynamics were monitored in real-time by diffuse optical reflectance at λ=329 nm. A relationship was developed between diffuse reflectance and polyamide thickness. The diffuse reflectance data show that ∼50% of the polyamide thickness is produced in 2 g/L. All studied concentrations of TMC at a fixed 20 g/L MPD concentration produced a polyamide thickness of ≈120 nm. Polyamide thickness increased from ≈10 to 110 nm with increasing concentration of MPD at 1 g/L TMC. The roughness measured by AFM increased with increasing MPD concentration but decreased with increasing TMC concentration. At MPD concentrations
Secondary structure-based profiles: use of structure-conserving scoring tables in searching protein sequence databases for structural similarities.

The profile method, for detecting distantly related proteins by sequence comparison, has been extended to incorporate secondary structure information from know X-ray structures. The sequence of a known structure is aligned to sequences of other members of a given folding class. From the known structure, the secondary structure (α-helix, β-strand or “other”) is assigned to each position of the aligned sequences. As in the standard profile method,1 a position-dependent scoring table, termed a profile, is calculated from the aligned sequences. However, rather than using the standard Dayhoff mutation table in calculating the profile, we use distinct amino acid mutation tables for residues in α-helices, β-strands or other secondary structures to calculate the profile. In addition, we also distinguish between internal and external residues. With this new secondary structure-based profile method, we created a profile for eight-stranded, antiparallel β barrels of the insecticyanin folding class. It is based on the sequences of retinol-binding protein, insecticyanin and β-lactoglobulin. Scanning the sequence database with this profile, it was possible to detect the sequence of avidin. The structure of streptavidin is known, and it appears to be distantly related to the antiparallel β barrels. Also detected is the sequence of complement component C8, which we therefore predict to be a member of this folding class.
Spatial-symbolic Query Engine in Anatomy

Objectives: Currently, the primary means for answering anatomical questions such as ‘what vital organs would potentially be impacted by a bullet wound to the abdomen?’ is to look them up in textbooks or to browse online sources. In this work we describe a semantic web service and spatial query processor that permits a user to graphically pose such questions as joined queries over separately defined spatial and symbolic knowledge sources. Methods: Spatial relations (e.g. anterior) were defined by two anatomy experts, and based on a 3-D volume of labeled images of the thorax, all the labeled anatomical structures were queried to retrieve the target structures for every query structure and every spatial relation. A web user interface and a web service were designed to relate existing symbolic information from the Foundational Model of Anatomy ontology (FMA) with spatial information provided by the spatial query processor, and to permit users to select anatomical structures and define queries. Results: We evaluated the accuracy of results returned by the queries, and since there is no independent gold standard, we used two anatomy experts’ opinions as the gold standard for comparison. We asked the same experts to define the gold standard and to define the spatial relations. The F-measure for the overall evaluation is 0.90 for rater 1 and 0.56 for rater 2. The percentage of observed agreement is 99% and Cohen’s kappa coefficient reaches 0.51. The main source of disagreement relates to issues with the labels used in the dataset, and not with the tool itself. Conclusions: In its current state the system can be used as an end-user application but it is likely to be of most use as a framework for building end-user applications such as displaying the results as a 3-D anatomical scene. The system promises potential practical utility for obtaining and navigating spatial and symbolic data.
Blood pressure and hair cadmium, lead, copper, and zinc concentrations in Mississippi adolescents.

Increased cadmium and lead tissue concentrations have been associated with deaths resulting from heart disease. Liver cadmium concentrations and aortic lead levels have been reported to be higher in deaths resulting from heart related disease compared to non-heart related disease. Essential trace elements such as copper and zinc have also been postulated as playing a role in coronary heart disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of hair lead, cadmium, copper, and zinc in Mississippi adolescents and to determine if these hair elements were associated with blood pressure.
Polyoxometalate Derivatives with Multiple Organic Groups. 3. Synthesis and Structure of Bis(phenyltin) Bis(decatungstosilicate), [(PhSnOH2)2(γ-SiW10O36)2]10-

A new phenyltin tungstosilicate derivative, [(PhSnOH2)2(γ-SiW10O36)2]10- (1), has been prepared by reaction of phenyltin trichloride with K8[γ-SiW10O36]·xH2O. The new heteropolyanion was characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, multinuclear NMR, and X-ray crystallography. The crystals of Cs9H[(PhSnOH2)2(γ-SiW10O36)2]·16H2O (Cs salt of 1) are triclinic, space group P1, with lattice constants a = 12.401(3) A, b = 13.832(3) A, c = 16.313(3) A, α = 96.17(2)°, β = 109.73(2)°, γ = 97.13(2)°, V = 2579.9(10) A, and Z = 1. Anion 1 has a structure of virtual C2h symmetry with two phenyltin groups sandwiched between two γ-SiW10 groups. Such a structure is different from all previously reported polytungstates derived from [γ-SiW10O36]8- lacunary anions.
Role of adenosine triphosphate in the relaxation of skeletal muscle myofibrils.

Abstract Recent studies of relaxation have shown that, in a calcium-depleted system, the ATPase of actomyosin is inhibited and syneresis is delayed. The hydrolysis of ATP during such a delay must somehow cause the onset of syneresis, and it probably does so by lowering the ATP concentration, although the liberated ADP and inorganic phosphate have also been reported to play a role. We have re-examined the roles of ATP and ADP by directly measuring the ATP concentration remaining at the moment when myofibrils flocculate. Our results indicate that the delay in flocculation represents primarily the time required for the concentration of ATP to fall below a critical “threshold” level which is required for relaxation, although added ADP appears to increase this threshold level. We have also found that, when “relaxation” is promoted by an increase in the concentration of EGTA, relaxing-factor granules, KCl, or MgCl 2 , the threshold ATP level is correspondingly reduced. We offer an interpretation of these results based on the postulate that the actin-myosin interaction is inhibited by the binding of ATP to a “relaxing” site on the myosin, distinct from the ATPase site.
Optimal intellectual property rights protection during an international health emergency

Abstract We analyze policy options during an international health emergency to provide consumers in least developed countries access to patented life-extending pharmaceuticals. Reliance on property rights exhaustion is shown to be insufficiently flexible and costly to implement. By contrast, the optimal degree of price discrimination can always be achieved with a properly specified tariff. We identify a trade-off between patent length and the relevant optimal tariff rate. If the patent length is too short (too long) there must be an offsetting higher (lower) than socially optimal tariff rate. When patent length can be manipulated as an explicit policy tool we identify a clear policy assignment. The tariff rate should be set to achieve social welfare objectives while the patent length can be used to control the resource cost of innovation.
Electrophoresis of DNA Adsorbed to a Cationic Supported Bilayer

We report fluorescence microscopy studies of the electrophoresis of individual DNA molecules electrostatically adsorbed to a cationic supported lipid bilayer. Obstacles to uniform electrophoretic flow cause the 2-D chains to adopt hooked conformations similar to those previously observed in 3-D electrophoresis experiments. Analysis of the stretch−contraction dynamics allows for an estimate of the obstacle density in the bilayer. Increasing the electric field causes the DNA molecules to become more highly stretched and increases the electrophoretic mobility substantially. A comparison of the Rouse relaxation time of the polymers and the average time between chain-obstacle collisions reveals that a single-obstacle model is insufficient to describe the observed dynamics but the obstacles are not dense enough to use a reptative model. Analysis of the unhooking dynamics reveals an 80% increase in hydrodynamic drag as compared to free chains. Finally, we observe anomalous diffusion of the DNA chains, with a lar...
In vivo 3-D imaging of gastrointestinal tracts by use of an endoscopic swept source optical coherence tomography with a microelectromechanical endoscopic rotational probe

In vivo three dimensional endoscopic imaging of rabbit and human gastrointestinal tracts was demonstrated based on an endoscopic swept source optical coherence tomography (SSOCT) system. The endoscopic SSOCT system is composed of a high speed SSOCT, a fast scanning rotational microelectromechanical system (MEMS) probe and real time data acquisition and imaging processing. The 2.2 mm rotational MEMS probe was miniature enough to be able to fit into the 2.8 mm biopsy channel of a standard endoscope. The gastrointestinal tracts of patients were imaged together with normal endoscopic examination. The epithelial, mucosal, lamina propria, and submucosal layers can be clearly seen on the OCT images.
Decision Aids for Local Decision Making: Discussion

The authors have done an excellent job of documenting what can be done and is being done to assist local decision makers. Their presentation refers to more than twenty alternative analyses they provide for both the private and the public sectors. The list of available decision aids is impressive and the developers of the programs should be complimented. However, the state of knowledge is never static. There is always a search for a better mouse trap or a better model. The authors' list of research needs demonstrates the need for constant improvement. The development of more precise demand and usage coefficients, the computation of elasticities, the determination of economies of size and other economic
CA4-05: Electronic Health Record Phenotyping to Define Rate of Extreme Weight Gain Associated with the Use of 2nd/3rd Generation Antipsychotic Medications

Background/AimsWeight gain is an undesirable side effect of treatment with 2nd/3rd generation antipsychotic drugs which may have genetic determinants. A number of candidate genes have been analyzed but no genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have yet been reported. The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of extreme weight gain (EWG) among adult users of 2nd/3rd generation antipsychotic medications for future GWAS.MethodsA standardized dataset was extracted on antipsychotic medications users at Group Health and Geisinger Health System from 2004–2010 that included demographics, enrollment, vitals, and pharmacy data. Electronic health record search algorithms were used to identify adult subjects with body weight increases of 15%+ within one year of the initiation of new 2nd/3rd generation antipsychotic drugs. To adjudicate the association of EWG with drug treatment, SAS was used to plot and visually inspect a single graph for each episode that encompassed all weight measurements, antipsychotic orders/fills, pregnancy- and cancer-related visits, and steroid and insulin orders/fills over time. The rate of EWG was then compared among the common types of antipsychotic medications.ResultsThere were 7128 episodes of antipsychotic use that qualified for analysis (5251 patients). The most common medication types were quetiapine (n=2543), risperidone (n=1817), aripiprazole (n=1315), olanzapine (n=971), and ziprasidone (n=413). The least common medications were clozapine (n=37), olanzapine/fluoxetine (n=23), and paliperidone (n=9). EWG was identified for 275 of the 7128 episodes (3.86 per 100 episodes). EWG was significantly different among common medication types (p-value<0.0001). EWG was highest for olanzapine (5.46 per 100 episodes, 95% CI=[4.77, 6.24]), followed by quetiapine (3.93 per 100 episodes, 95% CI=[3.25, 4.75]), risperidone (3.58 per 100 episodes, 95% CI=[3.14, 4.07]), and aripiprazole (3.50 per 100 episodes, 95% CI=[2.65, 4.62]). For ziprasidone, EWG was 2–3 fold lower (1.69 per 100 episodes, 95% CI=[1.46, 1.96]). EWG was not significantly different between Geisinger and Group Health (4.43 per 100 episodes versus 3.65 per 100 episodes, p=0.157).DiscussionRates of EWG differed significantly by type of 2nd/3rd generation antipsychotic medication, which was consistent in two geographically diverse populations. Future GWAS may help determine if genetic determinants of EWG are drug specific.
Inverse conic programming with applications

Linear programming duality yields efficient algorithms for solving inverse linear programs. We show that special classes of conic programs admit a similar duality and, as a consequence, establish that the corresponding inverse programs are efficiently solvable. We discuss applications of inverse conic programming in portfolio optimization and utility function identification.
Effect of coconut oil on plasma apo A-I levels in WHHL and NZW rabbits

Age-matched Watanabe (WHHL) and New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits were fed a coconut oil-enriched diet (14%, w/w) for 2 weeks. Lipid and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I levels in plasma and lipoprotein fractions were monitored. Within 3 days after the start of the coconut oil diet, plasma apo A-I and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-apo A-I levels increased 3-fold in the WHHL rabbits. A smaller but significant increase (63%) in apo A-I and HDL-apo A-I levels was also observed in the NZW rabbits. HDL cholesterol levels also increased from 16 ± 3 mg/dl during a regular diet to 46 ± 16 mg/dl (288%) during the coconut oil diet in the WHHL rabbits and from 37 ± 7 mg/dl to 69 ± 19 mg/dl (186%), respectively, in the NZW rabbits. Apo A-I and HDL cholesterol levels fell sharply to the original levels soon after switching back to a regular diet (within 3 days for WHHL rabbits and within 5 days for NZW rabbits). The fractional catabolic rate calculated from 125I-HDL kinetic studies indicated that the turnover rate for HDL was significantly slower in WHHL rabbits fed the coconut oil diet than the control diet (0.018 ± 0.004 h−1 vs. 0.027 ± 0.007 h−1, P < 0.01). No changes were found in the NZW rabbits fed either diet. Trilaurin, the main component of the coconut oil (46.9%) supplemented diet (6.5%, w/w), was also used in this study. The effect of trilaurin on plasma apo A-I and HDL-cholesterol levels is discussed.
Participant‐created case studies in professional training

Case studies have long been a staple ingredient of professional training, but among the challenges of using them are the difficulty of ensuring that their situations and elements accurately reflect the complexity of current case reality, achieving applicability across networking agencies, and the time they can take to create or obtain. The Center for Child and Family Studies is increasingly having participants create their own case studies for use in ongoing professional training. Practically, this method has several advantages. Theoretically, it is in keeping with constructivist values and the principles of adult learning. Though it does not work in every training situation in which cases may be used, it can greatly enrich training and training outcomes where it is feasible.
Contributions to relational biology

The principle of biotopological mapping (Rashevsky, 1954,Bull. Math. Biophysics,16, 317–48) is given a generalized formulation, as the principle of relational epimorphism in biology. The connection between this principle and Robert Rosen’s representation of organisms by means of categories (1958,Bull. Math. Biophysics,20, 317–41) is studied. Rosen’s theory of (M,R)-systems, (1958,Bull. Math. Biophysics,20, 245–60) is generalized by dropping the assumption that only terminalM i components are sending inputs into theR i components. It is shown that, if the primordial organism is an (M,R)-system, then the higher organisms, obtained by a construction well discussed previously (1958,Bull. Math. Biophysics,20, 71–93), are also (M,R)-systems. Several theorems about such derived (M,R)-systems are demonstrated. It is shown that Rosen’s concept of an organism as a set of mappings throws light on phenomena of synesthesia and also leads to the conclusion that Gestalt phenomena must occur not only in the fields of visual and auditory perception but in perceptions of any modality.
Ceramics for future power generation technology: fiber reinforced oxide composites

Major advances have been made during the past 2 years in the development of fiber-reinforced oxide composites for long-life combustion components. These include demonstration of long-term stability of mullite-based porous-matrix composites at 1200°C, development of fiber coating and slurry infiltration methods to produce composites with weakly bonded La-monazite interphases, and development of new alumina-based fibers.
The Fisher information matrix for a three-parameter exponentiated Weibull distribution under type II censoring

Abstract This paper considers the three-parameter exponentiated Weibull family under type II censoring. It first graphically illustrates the shape property of the hazard function. Then, it proposes a simple algorithm for computing the maximum likelihood estimator and derives the Fisher information matrix. The latter is represented through a single integral in terms of the hazard function; hence it solves the problem of computational difficulty in constructing inferences for the maximum likelihood estimator. Real data analysis is conducted to illustrate the effect of the censoring rate on the maximum likelihood estimation.
Sensory evaluation and quality indicators of nutritionally-enhanced egg product with ω-3 rich oils

Abstract Nutritionally-enhanced low-cholesterol egg sticks were fortified with ω-3 rich oils (algae, menhaden, flaxseed, canola oil and a blend of these with krill oil); quality indicators were measured and sensory evaluations were conducted. Store-bought eggs were separated and egg whites were mixed with oil, spray dried egg whites, annatto (color) and salt. Experimental egg batters and mixed liquid whole egg (control) were cooked in the shape of a cheese stick, vacuum-packed, and stored at 4 °C. Quality indicators (color ( L *, a *, b *), texture, pH and lipid oxidation) of egg sticks were measured over a 14-d storage period. There were differences in color, texture and pH between samples ( P P > 0.05). No trend in lipid oxidation was seen over storage time ( P > 0.05). Egg sticks were evaluated by a consumer panel of 56 participants for color, odor, flavor, texture between fingers, mouth feel and overall acceptability with a 9-point scale (1 = dislike extremely; 9 = like extremely). Panelists also ranked samples for preference. Differences were reported in attributes between samples ( P P > 0.05). The results indicate that the experimental eggs were accepted by consumers on the same level as mixed whole eggs and suggest market potential for this type of product.
Improving source detection and separation in a spatiotemporal Bayesian inference dipole analysis

Most existing spatiotemporal multi-dipole approaches for MEG/EEG source localization assume that the dipoles are active for the full time range being analysed. If the actual time range of activity of sources is significantly shorter than the time range being analysed, the detectability, localization and time-course determination of such sources may be adversely affected, especially for weak sources. In order to improve detectability and reconstruction of such sources, it is natural to add active time range information (starting time point and ending time point of source activation) for each candidate source as unknown parameters in the analysis. However, this adds additional nonlinear free parameters that could burden the analysis and could be unfeasible for some methods. Recently, we described a spatiotemporal Bayesian inference multi-dipole analysis for the MEG/EEG inverse problem. This approach treated the number of dipoles as a free parameter, produced realistic uncertainty estimates using a Markov chain Monte Carlo numerical sampling of the posterior distribution and included a method to reduce the unwanted effects of local minima. In this paper, our spatiotemporal Bayesian inference multi-dipole analysis is extended to incorporate active time range parameters of starting and stopping time points. The properties of this analysis in comparison to the previous one without active time range parameters are demonstrated through extensive studies using both simulated and empirical MEG data.
Thermodynamic properties of potassium + thallium liquid alloys

Thermodynamic information on potassium + thallium liquid alloys over the complete composition range has been obtained from 623 to 723 K using electrochemical cells of the type: K(1)|K-glass|K, Tl(1). Partial molar enthalpies and entropies and integral molar enthalpies and entropies of mixing have been calculated from the results. Some interesting maxima and minima are observed which indicate the existence of a region of strong chemical interaction between potassium and thallium.
Ecdysteroid-inducible polypeptides in a Drosophila cell line

Abstract In the Drosophila melanogaster cell line Kc-H, ecdysteroid hormone treatment causes increased relative synthesis of three ecdysteroid-inducible polypeptides (EIPs), named according to their molecular weights (in kilodaltons) EIP 40, EIP 29 and EIP 28. Increased synthesis of the EIPs is detectable within 45 min (EIP 28) or 75 min (EIPs 40 and 29), is maximal at 4–8 hr and continues for almost 2 days. During this period no other major changes in protein synthesis are discernible using one-dimensional gels. At maximum, EIP 28 synthesis is elevated at least 10 fold above its basal level, and EIPs 40 and 29 somewhat less. EIP induction is ecdysteroid-specific and is detectable in the presence of 10 −8 M 20-hydroxyecdysone. It does not occur in hormone-resistant cells. Apparently identical polypeptides are inducible in another ecdysteroid-responsive cell line, Schneider's line 3. Because EIP synthesis is an early and substantial response to ecdysteroids, this is a promising system for the study of steroid hormone action.
INCREASED HEME DEGRADATION IN NEONATES WITH DOWN'S SYNDROME. 1283

Neonates with Down's Syndrome (DS) frequently develop hyperbilirubinemia(peak serum total bilirubin (Bili) ≥15mg/dL). The aim of the study was to determine whether jaundice in DS neonates is due to increased bilirubin production, resulting from rapid heme degradation, reflected by carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) values. Blood for COHb and Bili was sampled from DS neonates and controls on the 3rd day of life. COHb was measured by gas chromatography and expressed as% total hemoglobin (tHb). Inspired air CO concentrations were determined by electrochemistry, and measured COHb corrected for inspired CO (COHbc). Peak Bili (possibly modified by phototherapy) was recorded. Mean ± SD were calculated and compared using Student's t test. Significance is defined as p<0.05.Table
Growth and structure of electron-beam evaporated ZnS films

Abstract Recent developments in the preparation of compound films have attained some degrees of success. In this attempt, experiments of ZnS deposition were performed in a vacuum system by the electron beam evaporation. The deposited films were analyzed as being stoichiometric by using an energy dispersive X-ray system. Columnar structures have also been observed in these ZnS films. The film growth depends upon the accommodation coefficient, substrate temperature, and deposition rate of the vapor species arriving at the surface. It is suggested that the equilibrated temperature may be considered as a normalizing parameter in characterizing these films.
A note on models for mixture-amount experiments when the total amount takes a zero value

This note presents models for mixture-amount experiments when the total amount takes a Lero value. These models modify those of Piepel and Cornell (1985), which are only appropriate when the total amount takes on greater-than-zero values.