cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Externalization of phosphatidylserine may not be an early signal of apoptosis in neuronal cells, but only the phosphatidylserine-displaying apoptotic cells are phagocytosed by microglia.

Earlier reports on nonneural cells have shown that the normally inner plasma membrane lipid, phosphatidylserine (PS), flip-flops out during the early stages of apoptosis, whereas DNA laddering and plasma membrane permeabilization occur during the late stages. In this study, the applicability of these parameters to CNS-derived neuronal cells was tested using hippocampal HN2-5, cells that undergo apoptosis under anoxia. Because such insults on unsynchronized cells, e.g., undifferentiated HN2-5 cells, result in both early and late apoptotic cells, we mechanically separated these cells into three fractions containing (a) cells that had completely detached during anoxia, (b) cells that remained weakly attached to the tissue culture dish and, once detached by trituration in serum-containing medium, did not reattach, and (c) cells that reattached in 2-3 h. Fractions a and b contained cells that showed pronounced DNA laddering, whereas cells in fraction c did not show any DNA laddering. Double staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate-annexin V (which binds to PS) and propidium iodide (which stains the DNA in cells with a permeable cell membrane) revealed that all cells in fraction a had a permeable cell membrane (propidium iodide-positive) and PS molecules in the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane (fluorescein isothiocyanate-annexin V-positive). By contrast, fractions b and c contained cells with no externalized PS molecules. Cells in fractions a-c also showed, respectively, 50-, 21-, and 5.5-fold higher caspase-3 (CPP32) activity than that in healthy control cells. All these results show that fraction a contained late apoptotic cells, which also had the highest CPP32 activity; cells in fraction b were at an intermediate stage, when DNA laddering had already occurred; and fraction c contained very early apoptotic cells, in which no DNA laddering had yet occurred. Therefore, in the neuronal HN2-5 cells, externalization of PS occurs only during the final stages of apoptosis when the cells have completely lost their adhesion properties. Further experiments showed that ameboid microglial cells isolated from neonatal mouse brain phagocytosed only the cells in fraction a. These results show that in CNS-derived HN2-5 cells, (a) PS externalization is a late apoptotic event and is concomitant with a complete loss of surface adhesion of the apoptotic cells and (b) PS externalization is crucial for microglial recognition and phagocytosis of the apoptotic HN2-5 cells. Thus, PS externalization could be causally linked to the final detachment of apoptotic neuronal cells, which in turn prepares them for rapid phagocytosis by microglia.
Bayesian adaptive phase II screening design for combination trials

BackgroundTrials of combination therapies for the treatment of cancer are playing an increasingly important role in the battle against this disease. To more efficiently handle the large number of c...
A technique to study doped ablation in polymethyl methacrylate using molecular dynamics simulation

A doped polymer substrate is studied using molecular dynamics simulations. Photons are preferentially absorbed as thermal energy by a spherical portion of a polymethyl methacrylate sample. Once sufficient energy is absorbed to fragment the polymer-labeled cluster and cleave the residual polymer bonds, ejection of material occurs indicating ablation. The mechanism of ejection is analogous to our previous work where a dopant cluster was represented using a cluster of carbon atoms [P.F. Conforti, M. Prasad, B.J. Garrison, Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 10 (2008) 6002]. This labeling procedure can serve as an approximate method to qualitatively explore the effects of different parameters without becoming consumed in the details of the simulation setup procedure.
Gliding motility: Can regulated protein movements in the plasma membrane drive whole cell locomotion?

Cell motility takes many forms and serves many purposes; one of the most obvious forms of cell motility is whole cell locomotion, i.e., translocation of a cell relative to fixed points in its environment [Lackie, 19861. Among eukaryotic cells, cell locomotion can be conveniently divided into two broad classes:
RELATION BETWEEN THE INTERACTING BOSON-FERMION APPROXIMATION MODEL AND DYNAMICAL BOSON-FERMION SYMMETRIES

The relation between the phenomenological Hamiltonian as used in dynamical boson-fermion symmetries and the semimicroscopic Hamiltonian of the interacting boson-fermion approximation, both used in the description of odd-mass nuclei, is studied in detail. Predictions are obtained for the parameters of the boson fermion symmetry Hamiltonian. From the microscopic picture behind the interacting boson-fermion approximation model, predictions are also obtained for the regions in the table of isotopes where the boson-fermion symmetries can be expected to occur. In addition we derive the structure of an additional exchange force, which results from the interaction between like particles.
World's first 15%-efficient multicrystalline silicon modules

This paper describes the result of a team effort at Sandia to demonstrate the near-term performance potential for multicrystalline silicon modules using commercial mc-Si material and improved cell fabrication processes. Large-area high-performance mc-Si cells were fabricated, prototype modules were built, and world-record module efficiency was confirmed by outdoor testing at over 15% for standard test conditions.
PAPER CHROMATOGRAPHY OF PREGNANEDIOL AND RELATED COMPOUNDS

PREGNANE-3 (α), 20(α)-diol has been isolated from urine on numerous occasions. Since the time it was first reported by Marrian (1), the compound has become known as pregnanediol. During pregnancy (2) or following the administration of progesterone (3) the urinary excretion of pregnanediol rises sharply and progesterone is therefore considered to be a precursor of this substance. Administration of 11-desoxycorticosterone has been found to increase-pregnanediol excretion in animals (4), normal human subjects (5), and patients with Addison's disease (6), suggesting that pregnanediol is a metabolite of this corticoid. Although pregnane-3 (α), 20(α)-diol seems to be the chief C21-steroid alcohol found in pregnanc-3(α) urine, it is by no means the only one, and the rise in pregnanediol excretion is known to be accompanied by increased excretion of allopregnane-3(α), 20(α)-diol and allopregnane-3(β), 20(α)-diol (7). In addition, several other chemically and possibly metabolically related C21-steroids have been i...
Successive Approximations for Finite Horizon, Semi-Markov Decision Processes with Application to Asset Liquidation

This paper presents a simple successive approximation approach to the characterization of optimal policies for finite horizon, semi-Markov decision processes. Optimal policies are nonstationary, for in this setting they depend on both time and state. We illustrate this approach by analyzing the optimal liquidation of an asset; we also show that several aspects of the standard, discrete-time, infinite horizon optimal policy carry over to the continuous-time, finite horizon policy.
The Impact of The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPfAR) beyond HIV and Why It Remains Essential

Recent debate has addressed whether global health financing should prioritize interventions that maximize lives saved; focus on the young; and are most economically efficient (most cost-effective). In particular, some have argued that an expansion of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPfAR) is not the best use of international health funding, and that extending funding to treat diarrheal and respiratory disease could save more lives at substantially lower costs. We examine the methods of cost-effectiveness analysis and why their application, without context, may not be appropriate for priority setting in this fashion. We further address the substantial impact PEPfAR has achieved in general and more specifically toward improving maternal and child health and why continued PEPfAR investment remains essential.
A fluorometric assay and properties of leucocyte alkaline phosphatase.

Abstract A fluorometric assay for leucocyte alkaline phosphatase is described which measures the enzyme activity at initial reaction rates. A comparison of the fluorometric and histochemical assays was carried out in 52 subjects, and a high degree of correlation between the two assays was found. Using the fluorometric assay, studies were carried out on leucocyte alkaline phosphatase for Km, p h optimum and the effect of substrate concentration on pH optimum. It was found that the Km and p h optimum of leucocyte alkaline phosphatase was very similar to the alkaline phosphatase from human liver, kidney, bone and intestine. Like alkaline phosphatase from liver, bone and intestine, that from leucocytes also shows a change in p h optimum with a change in substrate concentration.
Large-scale quantization from local correlations in space plasmas

This study examines the large-scale quantization that can characterize the phase space of certain physical systems. Plasmas are such systems where large-scale quantization, ħ*, is caused by Debye shielding that structures correlations between particles. The value of ħ* is constant—some 12 orders of magnitude larger than the Planck constant—across a wide range of space plasmas, from the solar wind in the inner heliosphere to the distant plasma in the inner heliosheath and the local interstellar medium. This paper develops the foundation and advances the understanding of the concept of plasma quantization; in particular, we (i) show the analogy of plasma to Planck quantization, (ii) show the key points of plasma quantization, (iii) construct some basic quantum mechanical concepts for the large-scale plasma quantization, (iv) investigate the correlation between plasma parameters that implies plasma quantization, when it is approximated by a relation between the magnetosonic energy and the plasma frequency, (v) analyze typical space plasmas throughout the heliosphere and show the constancy of plasma quantization over many orders of magnitude in plasma parameters, (vi) analyze Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) solar wind measurements to develop another measurement of the value of ħ*, and (vii) apply plasma quantization to derive unknown plasma parameters when some key observable is missing.
On the average electron–ion momentum transport cross-section in ideal and non-ideal plasmas

Abstract The energy-averaged electron–ion (e–i) momentum transport cross-section has been derived analytically and computed numerically. The result shows inaccuracy of the computations and fitting formula given by other authors.
Altering murine leukemia virus integration through disruption of the integrase and BET protein family interaction

We report alterations to the murine leukemia virus (MLV) integrase (IN) protein that successfully result in decreasing its integration frequency at transcription start sites and CpG islands, thereby reducing the potential for insertional activation. The host bromo and extraterminal (BET) proteins Brd2, 3 and 4 interact with the MLV IN protein primarily through the BET protein ET domain. Using solution NMR, protein interaction studies, and next generation sequencing, we show that the C-terminal tail peptide region of MLV IN is important for the interaction with BET proteins and that disruption of this interaction through truncation mutations affects the global targeting profile of MLV vectors. The use of the unstructured tails of gammaretroviral INs to direct association with complexes at active promoters parallels that used by histones and RNA polymerase II. Viruses bearing MLV IN C-terminal truncations can provide new avenues to improve the safety profile of gammaretroviral vectors for human gene therapy.
Underuse of Trimodality Treatment Affects Survival for Patients With Inflammatory Breast Cancer: An Analysis of Treatment and Survival Trends From the National Cancer Database

Purpose To analyze factors that predict the use of trimodality treatment (chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy [RT]) and evaluate the impact that trimodality treatment use has on survival for patients with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). Methods Using the National Cancer Data Base, patients who underwent surgical treatment of nonmetastatic IBC from 1998 to 2010 were identified. We collected demographic, tumor, and treatment data and analyzed treatment and survival trends over time. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine factors predicting treatment and survival. Results We identified 10,197 patients who fulfilled study criteria. The use of trimodality therapy fluctuated annually (58.4% to 73.4%). Patients who were older, diagnosed earlier in the study period, lived in regions of the country outside of the Midwest, had lower incomes or public insurance, and had a higher comorbid score were significantly less likely to receive trimodality therapy (all P < .05)....
Function of β-amyloid in cholesterol transport: a lead to neurotoxicity

Amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta), Abeta precursor protein (APP), apolipoprotein E (apoE), and elevated cholesterol levels have been linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. High cholesterol levels increase APP and apoE expression in human NT2 neuron progenitor cells. A cholesterol-rich environment also induces processing of APP, leading to the formation of Abeta and Abeta peptide fragments. Using a novel method, we determined that 1) cholesterol binds to Abeta at alpha-secretase cleavage site; 2) Abeta17-40 rather than Abeta1-40 prevents cholesterol from binding to apoE; 3) Abeta1-40 inhibits cholesterol from binding to low-density lipoprotein (LDL), leading to decrease cholesterol influx and intracellular cholesterol levels; 4) the binding of cholesterol to apoE or LDL was abolished completely in presence of Abeta1-42. Increased extracellular free cholesterol levels are toxic to neurons; this toxicity is prevented by specific lipoproteins, such as high-density lipoproteins, which maintain their ability to bind cholesterol in the presence of Abeta. We propose that one of the physiological functions of Abeta and APP is to control cholesterol transport. AD is associated with increased Abeta production. High cholesterol levels also lead to overproduction of Abeta. Abeta blocks cholesterol trafficking and changes cholesterol homeostasis leading to neurodegeneration and the onset and/or progression of AD pathology.
A preliminary report on teaching fiber optics using interactive television

During the fall semester of 1998, North Dakota State University (NDSU) and the University of North Dakota (UND) offered a fiber optics course for the first time using the North Dakota University System's Interactive Video Network (ND IVN). The instructor emphasized a market-oriented relevance to the state of the art in fiber optics while teaching enough theory to support the initiation of the student to design.
Automated performance of task-level symbolic computations in engineering design

Describes a prototype agent for automating the performance of symbolic computations in engineering design. The input to the system comprises a mathematical model of a design artifact and the queries or transformations desired on this model by the engineer. The system automatically does the mathematics required to achieve the input goals by intelligently using a computer algebra system. The system performance is demonstrated by an example from sensitivity analysis. >
Development, Implementation, and Analysis of a National Survey of Faculty Goals for Undergraduate Chemistry Laboratory

This work reports the development of a survey for laboratory goals in undergraduate chemistry, the analysis of reliable and valid data collected from a national survey of college chemistry faculty, and a synthesis of the findings. The study used a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. Faculty goals for laboratory emerged across seven factors, four of which�research experience, group work, error analysis, and laboratory writing�showed significant differences by course type. Significant differences between goals were also discovered when analyzed by external funding for the laboratory versus no funding. Synthesis across the previously published qualitative study and the quantitative study reported herein yields areas of emphasis in the curriculum for specific goals. This work adds weight to the growing body of global literature that implores faculty to define and assess their goals for laboratory.
Real-time driver affect analysis and tele-viewing system

This paper deals with the development of novel sensory systems and interfaces to enhance the safety of a driver who may be using a cell phone. It describes a system for real time affect analysis and Tele-viewing in order to bring the context of the driver to remote users. The system is divided into two modules. The affect recognition module recognizes six emotional states of the driver. The face-modeling module generates a 3D model of the driver's face using two images and synthesizes the emotions on it. Depending on bandwidth, either a raw video, 3D warped model, or an iconic representation is sent to the remote user.
An efficient object-based algorithm for spatial searching, insertion and deletion

The authors propose an object-based index structure for manipulating spatial objects with non-zero size. They introduce the main ideas of the proposed index structure. A detailed description of the algorithms is given for searching, insertion, and deletion in a database system with a high frequency of retrievals and a low frequency of insertions and deletions. The algorithms are then described for retrievals, insertions, and deletions for a database system with a nearly equal frequency of retrievals, insertions and deletions. >
Tropical Pacific Sea Level Variations (1948-98)

Abstract Monthly sea level in the Pacific Ocean (30°S–30°N) is analyzed for the 1948–98 period. It is shown that most sea level variations in this region have large scales, and so the available network of tide gauge stations is sufficient for analysis over this period. Analysis is done using statistically optimal interpolation and the full covariance structure defined by a more recent well-sampled period. The analysis reflects major variations in the station data, including warm and cool episodes in the tropical Pacific and an increase in variance in the second half of the analysis period. At the tide gauge stations, the analysis correlation with observations generally exceeds 0.9. Cross-validation tests show that errors in the tropical Pacific sea level analysis are typically less than 4.5 cm throughout the analysis period and less than 4 cm in the best-sampled most recent period. This result compares well with the TOPEX/Poseidon (Ocean Topography Experiment) satellite error estimate of 2 cm. Rotated EOF...
Three fundamental contributions of molecular genetics to avian ecology and evolution

Studies in molecular genetics are having revisionary impact in at least three broad areas of avian ecology and evolution: mating systems, geographic population structure and gene flow, and phylogenetic relationships among species and higher taxa. With regard to mating systems, genetic analyses of maternity and paternity have revealed unexpectedly high frequencies of extra-pair fertilization and intraspecific brood parasitism in numerous avian species (including those thought to be socially monogamous), and these discoveries are prompting a fundamental reshaping of mating system theory for birds. With regard to genetic structure, molecular markers have uncovered a great variety of depths and patterns in the phylogeographic histories of conspecific populations, and these findings provide novel perspectives on historical gene flow regimes and species concepts. With regard to evolutionary relationships among higher avian taxa, molecular findings have suggested several phylogenetic realignments, thus prompting renewed interest in the cross-comparative aspects of molecular and morphological evolution as well as of alternative procedures for molecular analysis.
The Concept and Market Extraction of Effective Age for Residential Properties

This paper presents a theoretical and algebraic technique for the estimation of effective age on a residential property. This estimate for the subject property is a number that is calculated relati...
Internal Wave–Wave Interactions. Part I: The Role of Internal Wave Vertical Divergence

Abstract Small-scale internal waves are numerically ray-traced through random 3D Garrett and Munk internal wave backgrounds. Past ray-tracing investigations of the transfer of internal wave energy toward small scales have considered only interactions with background vertical shear Vz = (Uz, Vz). Here, scale analysis and numerical simulations indicate a nonnegligible role for vertical divergence Wz. Background low-frequency vertical shear Vz transfers high-frequency test waves toward small scales while background vertical divergence Wz transfers low-frequency test waves toward small scales. These ray-tracing results resemble those of weak resonant-triad interaction theory, although the interactions considered here are not limited to be weak or resonant.
May a Proposed Expansion of Master Limited Partnerships' (MLPs) Tax Benefits for 'Renewable' Energy Lead to America's Energy Independence?

As of June 2013, Master Limited Partnerships ("MLPs") have reached a market capital of $400 billion, with over 100 MLPs traded on major exchanges. Generally established as LLCs with advantageous partnership flow through tax treatment, MLPs present attractive return vehicles to attract long term capital to the energy extraction, energy transportation ("midstream"), and most recent, energy distribution ("downstream"), markets. However, MLPs may result in unfavorable tax treatment for investors as well.This Highlight will present the tax issues for MLP investors pre- and post- the 1985 Code, imposed MLP investment restrictions, and gradual relaxation thereof. The Highlight will conclude with an analysis of the April 2013 legislative bi-partisan proposal, the Master Limited Partnership Parity Act, to extend MLP tax treatment to renewable ("green") energy, and why this proposal is contentious.
Managing Unruly Bodies: Public Policy and Disability Sexuality

Public policy that regulates and shapes the sexual and social lives of people with disabilities is focused on limiting freedom and agency. While analyzing the ideological underpinnings of such policy, the author also elucidates policy recommendations and ways that the field of disability studies can ameliorate the sexual status of people with disabilities.
Auto-deleting brain machine interface: Error detection using spiking neural activity in the motor cortex

Brain machine interfaces (BMIs) aim to assist people with paralysis by increasing their independence and ability to communicate, e.g., by using a cursor-based virtual keyboard. Current BMI clinical trials are hampered by modest performance that causes selection of wrong characters (errors) and thus reduces achieved typing rate. If it were possible to detect these errors without explicit knowledge of the task goal, this could be used to automatically “undo” wrong selections or even prevent upcoming wrong selections. We decoded imminent or recent errors during closed-loop BMI control from intracortical spiking neural activity. In our experiment, a non-human primate controlled a neurally-driven BMI cursor to acquire targets on a grid, which simulates a virtual keyboard. In offline analyses of this closed-loop BMI control data, we identified motor cortical neural signals indicative of task error occurrence. We were able to detect task outcomes (97% accuracy) and even predict upcoming task outcomes (86% accuracy) using neural activity alone. This novel strategy may help increase the performance and clinical viability of BMIs.
Standardizing the Definition of Biochemical Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy—What Prostate Specific Antigen Cut Point Best Predicts a Durable Increase and Subsequent Systemic Progression?

Purpose: Multiple definitions of biochemical recurrence for prostate cancer exist after radical prostatectomy, and variation continues in prostate cancer outcome reporting and secondary treatment initiation. We reviewed long-term prostatectomy outcomes to assess the most appropriate prostate specific antigen cut point that predicts future disease progression.Materials and Methods: We identified 13,512 patients with cT1-2N0M0 prostate cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy between 1987 and 2010. Single prostate specific antigen cut points of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 ng/ml or greater, as well as confirmatory prostate specific antigen value definitions of 0.2 ng/ml or greater followed by prostate specific antigen greater than 0.2 ng/ml and 0.4 ng/ml or greater followed by prostate specific antigen greater than 0.4 ng/ml were tested. Continued prostate specific antigen increase after a designated cut point definition was estimated using cumulative incidence. The strength of association between biochemical re...
SP0212 TGFBeta: An Ambivalent Role in Bone and Cartilage

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent joint cartilage degeneration disorder. Articular cartilage and subchondral bone act as a functional unit. TGFb in maintenance of articular cartilage metabolic homeostasis and structural integrity has been well established. However, understanding of subchondral bone in OA is still limited. In our recent study, we investigated subchondral bone-articular cartilage as a functional unit in the joints during progression of OA. We found uncoupled osteoclastic bone resorption in the subchondral bone 7 days post anterior cruciate ligament transaction (ACLT) of an OA mouse model. The levels of active TGFβ1 were significantly increased in the subchondral bone, which induced increase of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osterix + osteoprogenitors significantly in the subchondral bone marrow one month post ACLT, leading to uncoupled bone formation, angiogenesis and articular cartilage degeneration. As a result, the subchondral plate thickness and calcified cartilage zone increased as progression of OA. We also found that high levels of active TGFβ in the subchondral bone of human OA knee joints. To validate the role of high level of active TGFb in the subchondral bone, we generated and analyzed osteoblast tissue–specific TGFβ transgenic mice. All of the transgenic mice develop knee joint OA with increased osteoblast progenitors and angiogenesis in the subchondral bone. We then examined whether inhibition of TGFb activity in the subchondral bone could reduce development of OA. Injection of TβRI inhibitor (1mg/kg for 1 month) improved subchondral bone structure, decreased angiogenesis and partially attenuated articular cartilage degeneration. Furthermore, local administration of TGFβ antibody in the subchondral bone of ACLT rats prevented articular cartilage degeneration, indicating that the pathological changes in subchondral bone contribute to the progression of articular cartilage degeneration. Moreover, we knocked out TGFβ type II receptor (TβRII) specifically in nestin + MSCs by inducible nestin-CreER to further validate the role of nestin + cells in the onset of OA. The microarchitecture was significantly improved in TβRII knockout mice relative to WT mice since MSCs no longer respond to TGFβ. Importantly, proteoglycan loss, advances of calcified cartilage zone, MMP13 and type X collagen expression in chondrocytes were prevented in ACLT TβRII knockout mice. This study demonstrates that high levels of active TGFβ in the subchondral bone contribute to the pathological changes seen at the onset of OA. Alteration of subchondral bone structure likely changes the stress distribution on the articular cartilage and leads to its degeneration. Thus, inhibition of TGFb activity in the subchondral bone may provide a new avenue of treatment for OA. Disclosure of Interest None declared
"Let's Talk": Promoting Dialogue and Answerability in Critical Humanities Education with Permeable Curriculum and an Adda-Based Pedagogy

Dutta Ritam, “Let’s Talk”: Promoting Dialogue and Answerability in Critical Humanities Education with Permeable Curriculum and an Adda-Based Pedagogy [“Porozmawiajmy”: zalety dialogu i odpowiedzi w programach edukacji humanistycznej opartej na zasadach pedagogiki adda]. Kultura – Spoleczenstwo – Edukacja nr 1(7), 2015, Poznan 2015, pp. 35–59, Adam Mickiewicz University Press. ISBN 978-83-232-2944-5. ISSN 2300-0422 Building on Moje et al and Dyson’s work within a Bakhtinian framework of dialogism and ethics of answerability, the paper argues the need for a critical humanities educator to create dialogic learning spaces within classrooms that would be engaging for students and where students would be encouraged to draw from their various ‘funds of knowledge’ in order to connect their ‘school-world’ with their other social worlds. The paper points out the interconnected nature of our knowing-in-the-world and suggests that all teachers, but especially teachers of critical humanities or social sciences adopt an adda-based pedagogy through a permeable curriculum for promoting wholesome, student-cantered learning in colleges and universities that would harness students’ various ‘funds of knowledge’ both in and outside classrooms. The paper argues that even though the use of adda in the classroom, like other similarly negotiated curricula, does generate some challenges for educators, yet the benefits of using an adda-based pedagogy in the classroom far out-weigh its disadvantages in the creation of a democratic, equitable and engaging learning environment in classrooms.
Transplantation in Children with End Stage Renal Disease of Urologic Origin

AbstractUrologic disease is an important cause of end stage renal failure in children. Our experience with more than 700 renal transplants includes 30 children with renal failure of urologic origin who have received 34 renal homografts. The nature and natural history of the primary disease, corrective operations before transplantation, transplantation technique, complications and over-all success rate of these cases are reviewed.Vesicoureteral reflux and posterior urethral valves were the most common causes of end stage renal disease. The average time between diagnosis of a urologic problem and transplantation was 8.1 years. The incidence of renal dysplasia was high. It appears that many patients had limited potential for long-term urologic rehabilitation when they were evaluated initially.A wide variety of genitourinary tract operative procedures were done on 28 patients before transplantation (average 3.3 operations per patient). Cutaneous ureterostomy was the most frequent procedure, often following un...
Non-Destructive Internal Lattice Strain Measurement Using High Energy Synchrotron Radiation

High energy synchrotron X-rays can penetrate large samples and real engineering components. Taking advantage of this capability, diffraction techniques using monochromatic X-rays have been widely used to measure the residual strains in engineering components. However, isolating a particular volume inside a large component and measuring the residual strain is a challenge when employing typical monochromatic X-ray techniques. In this work we describe a spiral slit system capable of isolating an interior volume in a polycrystalline sample and non-destructively measuring the lattice strains in the volume. An interference fit sample constructed from a Ni-based superalloy is used to demonstrate the capabilities of the system. We compare the strain results to those measured using a conical slit system, a more mature and established device. The results from several polycrystalline samples with non-cubic crystal symmetry are also presented.
Outcome of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma in the United States: Review of SEER Data.

Introduction: Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Outcome data of DLBCL among a large population in the United States outside the context of clinical trials has not been reported. We examined survival trends of DLBCL patients among a large population based registry in the last four decades. Method: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) histology codes 9680, 9684, 9697 were used to identify all cases of DLBCL between 1973 and 2004. Kaplan-Meier estimates were used for median overall survival (OS). Variables analyzed included age, race, sex, stage, and year of diagnosis. SPSS statistical software was used for analysis. Results: Between 1973 and 2004, 59728 cases of DLBCL were recorded in the SEER data. The mean age of diagnosis was 63 years. 32505 (54.4%) were male and 27223 (45.6%) were female. The majority of patients, 51795 (86.7%), were white, 3733 (6.3%) were black, and 4200 (7%) were other races. Staging information was available in 57% of the cases, 18091 (30%) were early stage (I, II), 15862 (27%) were advanced stage (III, IV) and in 25775 (43%) the stage was unknown/missing. The overall median survival was 25 months. The 5 year OS was 36%. The relative 5 year OS was 47%. The median OS for females was 28 months compared to 21 months for males (log rank test, P value Conclusion: This is the first report on outcome of DLBCL in the SEER data. The outcome of DLBCL in the United States has improved significantly in the era of monoclonal antibodies. Black patients had inferior outcome. No sex differences in outcome are noted in the recent years. The SEER data analysis has several limitations namely lack of accurate staging information, IPI scoring and treatment details.
Detecting lower in addition to the highest Gleason score prostate cancer on core biopsy and the odds of upgrading at radical prostatectomy.

e16026 Background: We evaluated the odds of upgrading at radical prostatectomy when a biopsy core with a lower Gleason score (GS) compared to the core with the highest GS was present (ComboGS) versus not at diagnosis and in a concurrent submission, test ComboGS in a validation data set on the endpoint of prostate cancer-specific mortality. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 134 men with clinically localized PC diagnosed between 4/08 and 9/11 using a 12-core prostate needle biopsy. GS at biopsy and RP were assigned by an expert genitourinary pathologist. Logistic regression multivariable analysis (Table) was performed to assess the impact that ComboGShad on the odds of upgrading at RP adjusting for known predictors of upgrading. Results: Of 134 patients, 46 (34%) were upgraded. Both increasing percent positive biopsies (ppb) (p < 0.001) and PSA level (p=0.001) were associated with an increased odds of upgrading, whereas ComboGSwas associated with a decreased odds of upgrading (0.18 [95% CI: 0.04-0.76);...
Autoradiography of individual DNA molecules

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the autoradiography of individual DNA molecules. Autoradiography is frequently used in studies of chromosome structure and replication in which the properties of very high molecular weight DNA are being investigated. The method presented appears to be applicable to any virus or cell that can be treated with detergent to release the DNA. For autoradiography the DNA must be labeled to a high specific activity in order to obtain results in a reasonable time, for example, 10 weeks or less. In practice the lower limit of specific activity useful for 1abeling E. coli thymine-requiring mutants is about 5 Ci/mmole of thymine- 3 H or thymidine- 3 H. This specific activity produces approximately 0.1 grain per μm of DNA per month with NTB3 emulsion. The chapter describes the method of spreading that is done on microscope slides coated with a thin layer of gelatin applied as a subbing solution. DNA released from cells with n -lauroyl sarcosine adheres much better to subbed slides than to clean glass.
PROGRESS IN UNDERSTANDING SHOCK DEFORMATION IN CONDENSED MATERIALS AT THE ATOMIC/MOLECULAR LEVEL: RECENT EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENTS

Experimental approaches to understanding shock compression of condensed materials at the microscopic level are reviewed. Representative successes and difficulties in relating continuum measurements to atomic/molecular changes are outlined. Results from recent work on ruby crystals and liquid carbon disulfide are summarized to demonstrate the usefulness of time-resolved, spectroscopic measurements for understanding shock induced deformation and chemical reactions at the microscopic level. Directions for future work are indicated.
Regulation of vocal precision by local noradrenergic modulation of a motor nucleus

Recent theories of norepinephrine (NE) function suggest that NE modulates the transition between stereotyped, goal-directed behavior and more variable exploratory behaviors that facilitate learning and adaptation. We provide evidence for context dependent switching by NE that is analogous to this explore/exploit strategy in the vocal system of the zebra finch ( Taeniopygia guttata ). Stimulation of the locus coeruleus, the major source of norepinephrine in the brain, decreases song trial-to-trial variability transforming the variable, exploratory “undirected” song into song that resembles the more stereotyped, exploitative “directed” song males sing to females. This behavioral switch is mediated by NE acting directly on a cortical motor nucleus that integrates inputs from a premotor cortical nucleus and a basal ganglia circuit necessary for vocal motor learning. These findings suggest that norepinephrine can act directly on the motor system to influence the transition between exploratory and exploitative behavioral strategies.
The Effect of Patient and Surgical Characteristics on Renal Function After Partial Nephrectomy.

Abstract Background The purpose of the study was to identify patient and disease characteristics that have an adverse effect on renal function after partial nephrectomy. Patients and Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 387 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy for renal tumors between 2006 and 2014. A line plot with a locally weighted scatterplot smoothing was generated to visually assess renal function over time. Univariable and multivariable longitudinal regression analyses incorporated a random intercept and slope to evaluate the association between patient and disease characteristics with renal function after surgery. Results Median age was 60 years and most patients were male (255 patients [65.9%]) and white (343 patients [88.6%]). In univariable analysis, advanced age at surgery, larger tumor size, male sex, longer ischemia time, history of smoking, and hypertension were significantly associated with lower preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). In multivariable analysis, independent predictors of reduced renal function after surgery included advanced age, lower preoperative eGFR, and longer ischemia time. Length of time from surgery was strongly associated with improvement in renal function among all patients. Conclusion Independent predictors of postoperative decline in renal function include advanced age, lower preoperative eGFR, and longer ischemia time. A substantial number of subjects had recovery in renal function over time after surgery, which continued past the 12-month mark. These findings suggest that patients who undergo partial nephrectomy can experience long-term improvement in renal function. This improvement is most pronounced among younger patients with higher preoperative eGFR.
Association of Surgical Volume With Perioperative Outcomes for Esophagomyotomy for Esophageal Achalasia.

This population-based analysis examines the association between surgical volume and postoperative results in patients with esophageal achalasia who underwent esophagomyotomy.
Tilings and Patterns. By Branko Grünbaum and G. C. Shephard

(1988). Tilings and Patterns. By Branko Grunbaum and G. C. Shephard. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 95, No. 1, pp. 63-64.
The story of the first electronic computer in Hungary

After several preparatory activities in the early 50s, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences decided that it is necessary to have an electronic computer in Hungary. The Research Group for Cybernetics was established in mid-1956 and charged with the task of obtaining one. As commercial solutions proved to be impossible at that time it was decided to build the clone of a recently developed Soviet computer. The M-3 was a medium sized member of one of the first families of Soviet computers. Complete documentation and a package of key components were received in the framework of scientific cooperation. (Similar clones were built in Tallinn, Beijing, Erevan and M-3 was later manufactured in Minsk) Building of the M-3 started late 1957 (with the author's participation). Some life-signs were emerging in 1959, while more-or-less stabile operation was reached in 1960. Several improvements were made over the original design. Magnetic drum memory was exported to Timisoara for MECIPT. Despite its low performance, M-3 was successfully used to solve many real-life problems both for scientific-engineering calculations and in mathematical economics. Applications in other fields, like linguistics started too. The most important contribution of M-3 was its role in educating computer experts: many of the future leading personalities - both on the development and on the application side - got acquainted with computing around the M-3. M-3 served academic computing until 1965, extended with three more years at Szeged University. In the first part of the 60s commercial computers started to arrive to Hungary both from the USSR and the West.
Valuing Risk: Endorsed Risk Activities and Motives Across Adulthood

This study used content analysis of survey responses to help understand attitudes regarding taking risks across the adult lifespan. A sample of 842 U.S. adults ages 18–92 were asked to report their personal philosophy of taking risks, and what risks they felt people their age should take more often. Thematic categories were identified to classify the range of risk activities and explicit motives for taking risks. Responses were coded, and frequencies of those risk activities and motives were compared between young adults (ages 18–29), middle adults (30–59), and older adults (60+). Logistic regression was used to identify linear and curvilinear trends. Interpreting results within a lifespan developmental task framework, we concluded that risk taking may be valued as a way to create opportunities during young adulthood, a means to capitalize on those opportunities in middle adulthood, and as a strategy for managing resources and well-being in late adulthood.
Block Copolymers of Styrene and Isoprene: Experimental Design and Product Analysis

The use of anionic polymerization to produce block co-polymers was described some years ago (l). In principle the copolymers can be made in a stepwise fashion, by adding each monomer in turn to the polymerization system. To produce block co-polymers as free as possible of partial polymerization products and with each block quite monodisperse requires careful planning and rigorous purification techniques. Kinetic studies made on anionic polymerization and co-polymerization are a useful guide in experimental design.
Case Studies of Emerging Drugs: Salvia, Bath Salts, and Bromo-DragonFly

In order to offer more insight into the novel and emerging drug phenomenon, a series of case studies are presented in the following pages that intricately explore the recreational use, media coverage, and regulation of three emerging psychoactive substances with diverse effects and unique histories. First, a short-acting dissociative plant in the mint family, Salvia divinorum, is described as an example of an extant drug that somewhat suddenly became linked to recreational use after the natural product was chemically enhanced, mass produced, and packaged for retail sale by a handful of organizations. This drug is also an excellent example of state-led drug regulation as opposed to federal oversight. Second, the chapter examines the appearance of psychoactive synthetic stimulants marketed as “bath salts.” This category of substances received significant media attention and was quickly scheduled at the federal level in most countries. Finally, we present the recreational use of a recently synthesized research chemical that has yet to become a widespread drug of abuse. Bromo-DragonFly is a powerful and long-acting hallucinogen when taken recreationally.
Paradoxic effect of multiple mild coagulation factor deficiencies on the prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time.

Single coagulation factor deficiencies predictably prolong the prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) at levels below 35% of normal activity. Acquired coagulopathies generally are characterized by multiple coagulation factor deficiencies. The effect was studied of such combined deficiencies on the PT/APTT using plasma from patients congenital!) deficient in specific factors and pooled normal plasma. The PT begins to lengthen when individual factor levels fall below 25%. The APTT becomes prolonged when the levels of Factor V fall below 45%; the levels of Factors II and XI fall below 40%; and the levels of Factors I, V, VII, VIII, IX, and XII fall below 25% of normal. When plasma samples containing 50% activity of a single factor and 100% of all other factors were prepared by mixing the congenitally deficient plasma samples with the normal pool, the resulting mixtures had normal PT and APTT values. However, when two of these 50% factor-deficient plasmas were combined so that the mixture contained 75% activity of two coagulation factors and 100% of all other factors, the resulting PT and APTT were prolonged over the clotting times of either 50% factor-deficient plasma. Similar findings were obtained in patients with mild factor reductions caused by warfarin treatment. These data indicate that prolongations of the PT and APTT in disorders of coagulation affecting multiple factors represent less of a reduction in factor levels than is generally appreciated. This may explain the poor clinical correlation between abnormalities in these test results and clinical bleeding in acquired disorders of hemostasis.
The role of deicing salts on the non-linear moisture diffusion coefficient of cementitious materials during drying

The drying of cementitious materials is of interest in volume change (i.e., shrinkage) research. However, the movement of water due to drying and wetting also plays a significant role in many durability related problems (e.g., corrosion, alkali silica reactivity, freezing and thawing). Many factors can influence the drying and wetting process in concrete including: pore structure, environmental conditions, and liquid properties. This paper describes the influence of the liquid properties on the drying process. Specifically, this work examines the non-linear moisture diffusion coefficient that is used in a differential equation that describes drying. This paper describes how the non-linear moisture diffusion coefficient is influenced by the presence of deicing salts solutions. The relationship between the equilibrium relative humidity and the solution properties is also discussed in this paper. A higher degree of saturation was observed for the samples containing deicing salt solutions, as compared to the plain samples at any given humidity. The presence of deicing salt causes a shift of the non-linear moisture diffusion coefficient as a function of relative humidity. The non-linear moisture diffusion coefficient curves have near zero rates of drying at low relative humidity with a rapid increase in drying rate as the relative humidity is increased (especially near the equilibrium relative humidity) followed by diffusion coefficient of 0 between RHeq and 100% RH.