cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thalidomide therapy for renal cell carcinoma.

Abstract Purpose: To review the use of thalidomide as a therapeutic option for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Materials and methods: Studies of thalidomide alone or in combination with immunotherapy or chemotherapy were identified. The clinical benefit of thalidomide was assessed on the basis of objective response (complete and partial) and stable disease rates. Results: Single-agent thalidomide was evaluated in nine phase II studies, producing partial responses in a median of 7% of patients (range: 0–17%) and stable disease in a median of 31% of patients. On average, 40–45% of patients derived benefit from thalidomide. Common toxicities included constipation, lethargy, and with prolonged therapy, neuropathy. Four studies reported deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism at rates ranging from 3 to 23%. On the basis of these findings, phase I/II studies of thalidomide in combination with interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon (IFN), or chemotherapy have been conducted. Although some of these early combination regimens were limited by toxicity, promising findings have been seen with thalidomide/IL-2 and thalidomide/IFN/capecitabine. A phase III trial of IFN versus IFN/thalidomide is nearing completion. Conclusion: Thalidomide is active in metastatic RCC, but additional experience with thalidomide-based combinations is needed to better define how this agent should be used in the management of this malignancy.
Oscillations in nonlinear feedback systems.

It is shown how some basic ideas from system theory and differential geometry can be used to establish new results concerning the existance of oscillations for autonomous feedback systems. The conditions obtained are expressed in terms of the frequency response characteristic of the open-loop system and certain general properties of the nonlinearity.
Non-Traumatic Dental Condition-Related Emergency Department Visits and Associated Costs for Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

We analyzed 2010 US National Emergency Department Sample data and ran regression models to test the hypotheses that individuals with ASD are more likely to have non-traumatic dental condition (NTDC)-related emergency department (ED) visits and to incur greater costs for these visits than those without ASD. There were nearly 2.3 million NTDC-related ED visits in 2010. Less than 1.0% (children) and 2.1% (adults) of all ED visits were for NTDC. There was no significant difference in NTDC-related ED visits or costs for children by ASD status. Adults with ASD had significantly lower odds of NTDC-related ED visits (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.29, 0.52; p < 0.001) but incurred significantly greater mean costs for NTDC-related ED visits (p < 0.006) than did adults without ASD.
Employing two different quartz crystal microbalance models to study changes in viscoelastic behavior upon transformation of lipid vesicles to a bilayer on a gold surface

By analyzing the viscoelastic properties of two distinct layers, a layer of “soft” vesicles and a “rigid” bilayer, we have created a model system to permit the study of film behavior in the region of nonlinear mass and frequency change (non-Sauerbrey). The structural transformation of lipid vesicles to a bilayer is shown to be accompanied by significant changes in their physical properties. After the adsorption and saturation of intact vesicles on gold surfaces, the adsorbed vesicle layer exhibits a soft, water−rich, viscoelastic state. The AH peptide, a vesicle-destabilizing agent, is then added to trigger the formation of a much thinner (∼5 nm), compact, and rigid bilayer. In this study, we used the quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation technique. Large non-Sauerbrey frequency and energy dissipation changes characterize the viscoelastic nature of adsorbed intact vesicle films thicker than ∼10 nm. Once the transformation is complete, the frequency changes along with zero energy dissipation for suf...
Enterotoxin C2 Production by S. aureus in Entree Salads

Staphylococcus aureus strain 361 was inoculated into salads containing chicken, macaroni, potato, or artificially flavored soy product. Egg was added to some. The pH averaged 6.2 in the control made with water dressing rather than vinegar, 4.7 with home-style cooked salad dressing, and 4.9 with commercial salad dressing. Following incubation at 37°C for 8 or 24 hr, pH, total counts, and enterotoxin C2 were determined. Enterotoxin was detected at 8 hr in all macaroni and potato dressing types. At 8 hr, enterotoxin was not detected in most soy product or chicken salads. By 24 hr the lowest levels were in the soy product salads but all products contained toxin. When the inoculum level was reduced below the 105 CFU per g used in the main study, enterotoxin production was delayed but occurred at 8 hr if the inoculum level was 103.
Thermal analysis of dielectric insulation, ethylene/propylene rubbers, and cross-linked polyethylenes decomposed in a nitrogen atmosphere†

The techniques of thermogravimetric and derivative thermogravimetric analyses have been applied to the determination of temperatures and heats of decompositions of four ethylene/propylene rubbers and seven cross-linked polyethylenes in nitrogen. These materials are commonly used in the wire and ruble industry as dielectric insulation. The polymers were found to decompose in at least three overlapping stages. Each stage has an activation energy characteristic of the process. Differential thermal analysis was significantly less useful in this study due to the conflict of the endothermal heat of vaporization and the exothermal heat of decomposition.
A method for examining the impact of interoperability on mission performance in a system-of-systems

This research details the development of a design process and decision-making environment to support the acquisition of an air-based, interoperable, autonomous system-of-systems to support suppression of enemy air defenses missions. 12The design is done using a three part process, which includes the concurrent development of the DoDAF products, modeling and simulation environment, and decision support environment. In particular, the research focuses on understanding how the interactions, interoperability, and autonomy level of the unmanned aircraft affect the overall mission performance.
Severe Storm Latent Heat Release: Comparison of Radar Estimate Versus a Numerical Experiment

Abstract The time variation of mass-integrated liquid water and latent heat release for a severe thunderstorm in marked vertical wind shear is investigated for an actual Oklahoma storm and for a two-dimensional numerical modeling experiment. For the actual storm, an approximate continuity equation for liquid water variation is used together with profiles of radar reflectivity. Empirical relationships are utilized to determine the rainfall rate (flux) and liquid water content from the radar reflectivity profiles. Estimates of total storm water mass are obtained from the reflectivity profiles for the volume swept by the radar beam in the vertical. The downdraft evaporation rate is parameterized on the basis of a previous study which estimated this quantity as a residual in the continuity equation for liquid water mass. To estimate latent heat release and total liquid water mass from the numerical model, the two-dimensional cloud is extended to a three-dimensional region whose horizontal cross sections are e...
Dendritic development in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus of ferrets in the postnatal absence of retinal input : a Golgi study

In order to determine the ongoing role of retinal fibers in the development of dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) neurons during postnatal development, the development of dLGN neurons in the postnatal absence of retinal input was studied in pigmented ferrets using the Golgi-Hortega technique. The development of four dLGN cell classes, defined on the basis of somatic and dendritic morphology, was described previously in normal ferrets (Sutton and Brunso-Bechtold, 1991, J. Comp. Neurol.309: 71–85). The present results indicate that the morphological development of dLGN neurons is strikingly similar in normal and experimental ferrets. The exuberant dendritic appendages that appear after eye opening in normal ferrets are overproduced and eliminated in the postnatal absence of retinal input; however, the final reduction of these transient appendages is delayed. Because exuberant appendages develop in the absence of retinal input, their production cannot depend upon visual experience. Differences in cell body size between normal and experimental ferrets are apparent only after neurons can be classified at the end of the first postnatal month. Cell body size is markedly reduced for class 1 neurons; class 2 cells also are reduced in size but to a far lesser extent. As there is a general trend for class 1 neurons to have the functional properties of Y-cells, it is likely that the dLGN neurons most affected by the absence of retinal input also are Y-cells. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Schizophrenia: Modeling a complex psychiatric disorder

Despite its complexity, schizophrenia can be deconstructed into individual phenotypic components that can be analyzed in animal models. Here we discuss recent advances in genetic animal models, which in conjunction with in vitro and in silico models of disease components promise to provide novel insights into disease pathogenesis and facilitate generation of novel treatments. Although we specifically focus on models of schizophrenia, our discussion is relevant to psychiatric disorders in general.
Differences in retail strategies on the emerging organic market.

Purpose – The organic product market can be considered as an emerging market. Since the 1990s it has experienced rapid growth, and supermarket chains have become the sales channel with the largest market share and are the main driver for further growth. However, different supermarket retail groups have very different strategies concerning the marketing of organic products. The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into the different strategies of retailers who are active in the organic product market and to explain the drivers which may underlie them.Design/methodology/approach – The strategies of the three most important Belgian retailers that market organic products, and in particular organic beef, are analyzed. Data were collected through interviews with the retailers' staff and through observations in retail outlets. Also, GfK‐household panel data which recorded all purchases of 3,000 Belgian households and a postal survey with 529 respondents were used as data sources.Findings – The different stra...
Abstract 521: 4, 4′-Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Triclosan (TCS) decrease tumor-cell-binding capacity and cell-surface protein expression of human natural killer cells

4, 4′-Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and Triclosan (TCS) are organochlorine compounds that contaminate the environment, are found in human blood, and have been shown to decrease the tumor-cell killing (lytic) function of human natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells defend against tumor cells and virally infected cells. This study examined concentrations of DDT and PCP that decrease lytic function for alteration of NK binding to tumor targets. Levels of either compound that caused loss of binding function were then examined for effects on expression of cell-surface proteins needed for binding. CD16 is an Fc receptor and CD56 is a cognate of neural cell adhesion molecules, both of which are present on NK cells and involved in recognition and lysis of NK target. NK cells exposed to 2.5 µM DDT for 24 h (which caused a greater than 55% loss of lytic function) showed a decrease in NK binding function of about 23%, and a decrease in CD16 of 20%. NK cells exposed to 5 µM TCS for 24 h showed a decrease in ability to bind tumor cells of 44% and a decrease in expression of CD56 of about 34%. This same treatment caused a decrease in lytic function of greater than 87%These results indicated that only a portion of the loss of NK lytic function seen with exposures to these compounds could be accounted for by loss of binding function and also accompanied by loss of cell-surface protein expression. Supported by NIH grant 1U54CA163066-01 and S06 GM008092-35 Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 521. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-521
Three-dimensional finite element analysis of finite deformation micromorphic linear isotropic elasticity

Abstract A finite deformation micromorphic materially linear isotropic elastic model is formulated and implemented for three dimensional finite element analysis. The model is based on the kinematics, balance equations and thermodynamic equations proposed by Eringen and Suhubi (1964) . The constitutive equations are calculated in the reference configuration, and the resulting stresses are mapped to the current configuration. The balance of linear momentum and the balance of first moment of momentum are linearized to construct the consistent tangent for three dimensional finite element implementation for solution by the Newton–Raphson method. Three dimensional numerical examples are analyzed to demonstrate preliminarily the implementation.
DCT-based embedded coding for packet video

Abstract We present an image compression algorithm that is useful for transmitting video over packet networks. The algorithm modifies those in references [4–6, 8, 10] by incorporating motion-compensated prediction. The low and high priority images can be computed in parallel, and the algorithm provides improved motion-compensated prediction of low-frequency discrete cosine transform (DCT) coefficients.
Quantification of flow hydrodynamics in pulse thermogravimetric analysis systems

A test has been designed and used to compare flow hydrodynamics in different thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) systems used as pulse microreactors. The test involves passing a pulse of injectant over the sample pan containing an adsorbent. Water and zeolite are used in the present case. The technique is easily performed and is insensitive to variations in temperature. A model is developed by which the fraction of gas pulse bypassing the sample pan within the TGA can be obtained. In gas/solid reactions, either catalytic or noncatalytic, the test should prove useful for comparing TGA extent-of-conversion data to similar measurements taken from other reactor configurations, carrier flow rates, and flow geometries.
A Slippery Slope: Mechanistic Analysis of the intramolecular Scholl Reaction of Hexaphenylbenzene

DFT calculations support an arenium cation-based mechanism for the Scholl reaction converting hexaphenylbenzene to hexa-peri-benzocoronene. The curve connecting fully benzenoid intermediates on the potential energy diagram is convex. This “slippery slope” provides an explanation for the ease of this cascade Scholl reaction. The calculated reaction coordinate predicts that intermediates will not accumulate; this prediction is verified by experiment.
Novel Bio-Imaging Techniques by Harnessing Optical Highlighter Fluorescent Proteins

Optical highlighters are a remarkable family of fluorescent proteins (FPs) that could change their excitation and emission spectra upon certain wavelength illumination. Optical highlighters have been extensively used in super-resolution imaging, protein dynamics, gene expression and cellular trafficking. Herein we are harnessing these unique proteins in three different imaging applications: genetically-encoded microviscosity sensor, ultra-deep tissue imaging, and light-driven fluorescent timers. First, we report that the photoswitching kinetics of the chromophore inside Dronpa, a FP with the reversible on-off switching capability, is actually slowed down by increasing medium viscosity outside Dronpa. This effect is attributed to protein-flexibility mediated coupling where the chromophore's cis-trans isomerization is accompanied by conformational motion of protein beta-barrel. Based on this effect, we developed a genetically encoded protein-specific micro-viscosity sensor. Secondly, we have demonstrated a spectroscopy concept to extend the fundamental imaging-depth limit of multiphoton microscopy by generating super-nonlinearity of photo-switchable probes. Due to the long-lived nature of these switchable states, the nonlinearity effect could accumulate as the population is being cycled through these states. Conceptually different from conventional multiphoton processes mediated by transient virtual states, our strategy constitutes a new class of super-nonlinear fluorescence microscopy mediated by real population transfer. Last, we demonstrate a novel class of light-driven fluorescent timer (FT), based on the photo-convertible fluorescent proteins. It's a new method to image the protein “age” in live cells with a simple snap-shot measurement. This tunable light-driven FT will be a valuable tool that does not only provide the spatial location information of an individual protein, but also its temporal dynamics.
Two-phase genetic algorithm for topology optimization of free-form steel space-frame roof structures with complex curvatures

Abstract A two-phase genetic algorithm is presented for simultaneous sizing and topology optimization of free-form steel space frame roof structures consisting of discrete commercially available rectangular hollow structural sections. The algorithm is applied to two real-life space roof structures intended for Ottawa Light Rail Transit (OLRT). It is shown that the algorithm is effective for topology optimization of real-life roof structures with complex curvatures in multiple planes.
Collaborative scientific conceptual change: a framework for analyzing science learning

One problem in science education is that students neither construct in-depth conceptual understanding nor are they able to apply scientific thinking processes. A myriad of studies on conceptual change have investigated the nature and process of conceptual change, pedagogical strategies to foster conceptual change and improve higher-level thinking. We propose a new framework - the collaborative scientific conceptual change model - to stresses the importance of high quality collaborative discourse and scientific epistemic practices in the process of conceptual change. To investigate how group interactions influence individual students' learning gains, multilevel analysis was used to analyze the hierarchically nested data and qualitative analyses were presented to compare high and low-achievement groups' discourse and their application of epistemic practices. The results found that predicting and coordinating theory and evidence were key practices that predicted students' individual posttest performance and the group interactions were related to the group understanding.
Concurrent Programming Concepts

This paper describes the evolution of language features for multiprogramming from event queues and semaphores to critical regions and monitors. It suggests that the choice of language concepts should be guided by two simple principles: First, it should be possible to understand a concurrent program in time-independent terms by an effort proportional to its size; secondly, it should be possible to state assumptions about invariant relationships among program components and have these assumptions checked automatically. The central problems of multiprogramming are illustrated by annotated algorithms written in a well-structured programming language.
Tritocerebral tract input to the insect mushroom bodies

Insect mushroom bodies, best known for their role in olfactory processing, also receive sensory input from other modalities. In crickets and grasshoppers, a tritocerebral tract containing afferents from palp mechanosensory and gustatory centers innervates the accessory calyx. The accessory calyx is uniquely composed of Class III Kenyon cells, and was shown by immunohistochemistry to be present sporadically across several insect orders. Neuronal tracers applied to the source of tritocerebral tract axons in several species of insects demonstrated that tritocerebral tract innervation of the mushroom bodies targeted the accessory calyx when present, the primary calyces when an accessory calyx was not present, or both. These results suggest that tritocerebral tract input to the mushroom bodies is likely ubiquitous, reflecting the importance of gustation for insect behavior. The scattered phylogenetic distribution of Class III Kenyon cells is also proposed to represent an example of generative homology, in which the developmental program for forming a structure is retained in all members of a lineage, but the program is not "run" in all branches.
Invited reaction: The influence of individual characteristics and the work environment on varying levels of training outcomes

In his reaction to the article (indexed at TD/TNC 65.176) on the influence of individual characteristics and the work environment on varying levels of training outcomes, the author proposes three key elements for evaluating studies with structural equation modeling (SEM) as the primary statistical technique. These elements are strong theory, well-specified measures, and sound modeling strategy. The author identifies how the article incorporates these elements and comments on how to use SEM as an approach to building human resource development (HRD) theory.
Prostatitis: Diagnosis and Treatment

Chronic prostatitis is a common affliction of men. It is characteristically associated with irritative voiding symptoms and perineal or low back discomfort, although a variety of other symptoms are also sometimes encountered. Two major varieties of chronic prostatitis are prevalent today: bacterial prostatitis, caused primarily by Gram-negative organisms, mainly of the coliform group, and non-bacterial prostatitis of unknown aetiology, which, unfortunately, is the most common type. Although the symptoms of these 2 types of chronic prostatitis are often similar, the clinical significance and recommended management of the two are quite different; therefore, proper diagnosis is important. The most accurate way for the clinician to confirm the diagnosis of bacterial prostatitis is the performance of essentially simultaneous quantitative bacterial cultures of the urethra, bladder urine and expressed prostatic secretions.
Secondary Structure and Orientation of Phospholamban Reconstituted in Supported Bilayers from Polarized Attenuated Total Reflection FTIR Spectroscopy

We have studied the secondary structure of native phospholamban (PLB), a 52-residue integral membrane protein that regulates calcium uptake into the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum, as well as its 27-residue carboxy-terminal transmembrane segment (PLB26-52). The relative contents of a-helix, P-strand, and random coil, as well as the spatial orientations of the a-helices of these molecules, reconstituted in dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and 1-palmitoyl-Zoleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC) bilayer membranes, were determined using polarized attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The major component of the amide I' bands of PLB and PLB26-52 was centered at 1654-1657 cm-' and was assigned to a-helix. The fraction of a-helix in native PLB was 64-67% (33-35 residues), and the transmembrane peptide PLB26-52 contained 73-82% a-helix (20-22 residues); small fractions of P- and random structures were also identified. The orientational order parameter (S) of the a-helical component of PLB26-52 in DMPC was S = 0.86 f 0.09, indicating that the transmembrane helix was oriented approximately perpendicular to the membrane plane. Assuming the transmembrane domain of PLB resembles the peptide PLB26-52, the additional a-helical residues in PLB were assigned to the cytoplasmic helix and determined to have an order parameter S = -0.15 f 0.30. This may imply that the cytoplasmic helix was tilted from the membrane normal by an angle of 61 & 13" or, alternatively, may indicate a wide angular distribution. PLB reconstituted in the supported DMPC bilayers was phosphorylated by the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A, as confirmed by the appearance of a new absorbance band at -1200 cm-'. Phosphorylation reduced the a-helical content of PLB to 54% (-28 residues), though the orientation of the cytoplasmic helix was not significantly changed. These results, in conjunction with Chou-Fasman secondary structure prediction, are consistent with a model of PLB composed of a transmembrane helix (residues 33-52), a cytoplasmic helix (most likely residues 8-20), and a small intervening P-sheet between residues 22 and 32 as well as a random coil at the amino terminus of the protein.
love songs and the Great Leap: the role of a youth culture in the revolutionary phase of China's economic development

he Chinese Communists believe that all art is politically motivated and propagandistic in nature and that the use of symbols is crucial to winning the people's compliance with revolutionary goals. In this paper, I analyze a small corpus from one genre of Communist propaganda, namely love songs. The songs reveal some basic values—a kind of “root paradigm” in the form of a “protracted courtship”—that combine traditional, popular, and socialist motifs aimed at promoting the family revolution and economic development. One way the Communists attempt both to legitimize and to restrict the role of erotic feelings in the new social structure is to give greater rein to their expression in the love songs of the national minorities. However, in spite of Communist attempts to elevate the popular taste and their expressions in love songs, the purely popular song traditions continue to find voice among the masses especially during periods of revolutionary relaxation.W
Management of the presumed susceptible varicella (chickenpox)-exposed gravida: A cost-effectiveness / cost-benefit analysis

Objective To compare the cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit of different strategies for managing the presumed susceptible varicella (chickenpox)-exposed gravida. Methods Three strategies were evaluated: 1) a do-nothing or observation strategy; 2) a testing strategy, in which immune status was assessed and varicella-zoster immune globulin was administered to those who tested nonimmune; and 3) a universal-administration strategy, in which varicella-zoster immune globulin was given to all exposed, presumed susceptible gravidas. Because precise data are unavailable about varicella mortality and hospitalization rates in pregnancy, a range of potential rates was evaluated, from one to greater than 20 times healthy nonpregnant adult rates. The potential efficacy of varicella-zoster immune globulin varied from 1 to 99%. A strategy was defined as cost-effective if it cost less than $50,000 per life-year gained. Results If the mortality rate from varicella infection in pregnancy was increased fivefold over the nonpregnant healthy adult rate (ie, from 31/100,000 to 155/100,000 cases), efficacy would have to be at least 49% for the immunetesting strategy to be cost-effective. If pregnancy only doubled the varicella mortality rate, then even with perfect efficacy, the immune-testing strategy would not be cost-effective. Under most assumptions, the universaladministration strategy was cost-ineffective when compared with the immune-testing strategy. Similar results were obtained in the parallel cost-benefit analysis, which considered hospitalization costs and rates. The analysis was sensitive to the varicella transmission rate and the discount rate. Conclusion From a cost-effectiveness/cost-benefit standpoint, management based on immune testing is preferable to universal varicella-zoster immune globulin administration when caring for the varicella-exposed gravida with a negative or indeterminate infection history.
An ultrastructural study of mammalian cardiac ganglia.

Abstract Atrial parasympathetic ganglia of rats, guinea pigs, kittens and monkeys were studied. In all species, the ganglia consisted of small clusters of nerve cells and nerve processes, together with supporting elements and blood vessels. Each ganglion was ensheathed in a connective tissue capsule. The nerve cells were large and each contained a large nucleus with one or more nucleoli. The cytoplasm contained much rough endoplasmic reticulum and extensive Golgi complexes. In the rat and guinea pig, and to a lesser extent in the cat, the surfaces of the perikarya were studded with short dendritic processes. The dendrites of monkey and cat neurons were much larger than those of the other species. Short and long dendrites and neuronal perikarya all were enclosed in sheath cell processes. Preganglionic nerves, interposed between the sheath cells and the surfaces of the neurons, made synaptic contact with the perikarya and the dendritic processes. Some synapses were made by axons en passant, while others involved nerve terminals. Typical cholinergic preganglionic terminals were numerous in all species. To ensure positive identification of adrenergic nerve terminals, some animals were pretreated with 5-hydroxydopamine. In these animals, preganglionic terminals containing many small dense-core vesicles were seen in synaptic contact with short dendrites of the intracardiac neurons. Other presynaptic terminals contained translucent vesicles with flattened and irregular profiles, a few large dense-core vesicles and much glycogen. These did not resemble adrenergic, cholinergic or purinergic endings. It seems to us, therefore, that the intracardiac neurons serve as a final common pathway, through which at least three types of input may simultaneously influence the effector tissues of the heart.
Rosiglitazone improves glucose metabolism in obese adolescents with impaired glucose tolerance: a pilot study

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is a prediabetic state fueling the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in adolescents with marked obesity. Given the importance of insulin resistance, the poor β-cell compensation and the altered fat partitioning as underlying defects associated with this condition, it is crucial to determine the extent to which these underlying abnormalities can be reversed in obese adolescents. We tested, in a pilot study, whether rosiglitazone (ROSI) restores normal glucose tolerance (NGT) in obese adolescents with IGT by improving insulin sensitivity and β-cell function. In a small randomized, double-blind, placebo (PLA)-controlled study, lasting 4 months, 21 obese adolescents with IGT received either ROSI (8 mg daily) (n = 12, 5M/7F, BMI z-score 2.44 ± 0.11) or PLA (n = 9, 4M/5F, BMI z-score 2.41 ± 0.09). Before and after treatment, all subjects underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, magnetic resonance imaging, and (1)H NMR assessment. After ROSI treatment, 58% of the subjects converted to NGT compared to 44% in the PLA group (P = 0.528). Restoration of NGT was associated with a significant increase in insulin sensitivity (P < 0.04) and a doubling in the disposition index (DI) (P < 0.04), whereas in the PLA group, these changes were not significant. The short-term use of ROSI appears to be safe in obese adolescents with IGT. ROSI restores NGT by increasing peripheral insulin sensitivity and β-cell function, two principal pathophysiological abnormalities of IGT.
Rational engineering of a novel pathway for producing the aromatic compounds p-hydroxybenzoate, protocatechuate, and catechol in Escherichia coli

Abstract p -Hydroxybenzoate, protocatechuate, and catechol represent fine and/or commodity chemicals useful as antioxidants and building-block molecules. To date, however, these species have been largely overlooked as focal end-products. An existing route employing protocatechuate and catechol as intermediates suffers from the need for multiple auxotrophies to preserve precursor (3-dehydroshikimate) availability. A novel, modular route from endogenous p -hydroxybenzoate has been engineered in Escherichia coli for the individual biosynthesis of all three products from renewable glucose while minimizing auxotrophy generation. To enhance endogenous biosynthesis of p -hydroxybenzoate, native chorismate pyruvate lyase ( ubiC ) was over-expressed. p -Hydroxybenzoate was converted to protocatechuate by a hydroxylase ( pobA ) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Catechol was produced by the additional co-expression of protocatechuate decarboxylase from Enterobacter cloacae . Systematic expression of appropriate pathway elements in phenylalanine overproducing E. coli enabled initial titers of 32 ± 4, 110 ± 8, and 81 ± 15 mg/L for p -hydroxybenzoate, protocatechuate, and catechol, respectively. Disruption of chorismate mutase/prephenate dehydratase ( pheA ) to preserve endogenous chorismate then allowed maximum titers of 277 ± 2, 454 ± 11, and 451 ± 44 mg/L, respectively, at glucose yields of 5.8, 9.7, and 14.3% of their respective theoretical maxima. Catechol titers were further improved to 630 ± 37 mg/L in a batch bioreactor study. The proposed pathway can furthermore serve as a platform for other bioproducts, including the bioplastics precursor cis,cis -muconate.
Keratocan is expressed by osteoblasts and can modulate osteogenic differentiation

Keratocan is an extracellular matrix protein that belongs to the small leucine-rich proteoglycan family which also includes the lumican, biglycan, decorin, mimecan and fibromodulin. Members of this family are known to play a role in regulating cellular processes such as proliferation and modulation of osteoprogenitor lineage differentiation. The aims of this study were to evaluate the expression pattern of the keratocan within the osteoprogenitor lineage and assess its role in regulating osteoblast maturation and function. Results from gene expression analyses of cells at different maturation stages within the osteoblast lineage indicate that keratocan is differentially expressed by osteoblasts and shows little or no expression by osteocytes. During primary osteoblast cultures, high keratocan mRNA expression was observed on day 14, while lower expression was detected at days 7 and 21. To assess the effects of keratocan on osteoprogenitor cell differentiation, we evaluated primary calvarial cell cultures from keratocan deficient mice. The mineralization of calvarial osteoblast cultures derived from keratocan null (kera−/−) mice was lower than in wild type osteoblast cultures. Furthermore, analysis of RNA derived from kera−/− calvarial cell cultures showed a reduction in the mature osteoblast differentiation markers, i.e., bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteocalcin (OC). In addition, we have evaluated the bone formation in keratocan deficient mice. Histomorphometric analysis indicated that homozygous knockout mice have a significantly decreased rates of bone formation rate and mineral apposition. Taken together our results demonstrate the expression of keratocan by osteoblast lineage cells and its ability to modulate osteoblast function.
Are there constraints on childhood disfluency

Abstract Analysis of the spontaneous speech of eight stuttering and eight normally fluent children reveals that (a) the location of both stuttering and normal disfluent moments is constrained by sentential constituent structure, and (b) stuttering children experience fluency breakdown with a particular type of constituent (verb phrase) not usually disfluently produced by normals. A view of early stuttering as a sentence planning and integration disorder is present.
The preparation of dibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepine-11-d1 and 10,11-di-hydrodibenz [b,f][1,4]oxazepin-11-one-7-d1

Lithium aluminium deuteride reduction of 10, 11-dihydro-dibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepin-11-one affords 10, 11-dihydro-dibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepine-11-d2 which on dehydrogenation gives isotopically pure dibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepine-11-d1. Hydrogenolysis of 7-chloro-10, 11-dihydrodibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepin-11-one with deuterium in ethanol solution gives 10, 11-dihydrodibenz[b,f][1,4]oxazepin-11-one-7-d1 of 49% isotopic purity. Use of ethanol-1-d1 as the reaction solvent gives a product of 85% isotopic purity.
Ferroelasticity in isopropyl ammonium chloroplatinate and chlorostannate

Isopropyl ammonium chloroplatinate (C3H7NH3)2PtCl6 and the corresponding chlorostannate (C3H7NH3)2SnCl6 are demonstrated to be ferroelastic by observation of the stress‐induced motion of (100) and (001) shear domain walls. The ferroelastic transition temperatures are at 37 and 40 °C, respectively, at room pressure and increase approximately linearly with increasing hydrostatic pressure. X‐ray structure analysis and the absence of measurable second‐harmonic generation (SHG) in either higher‐ or lower‐temperature phases suggest that these crystals belong to the Aizu ferroelastic species mmmF2/m.
Put to the Test: Understanding Differences in Support for High-Stakes Testing

Despite the importance of high-stakes tests in education policy, relatively little is known about opinion on this issue. We examine racial and socioeconomic differences in support for high-stakes testing. Given the achievement gaps between racial minorities and Whites and between the lower and higher status, it would be reasonable to expect that those whose children are most likely to do well on high-stakes tests would support the policy, whereas their counterparts would oppose them. However, these groups have different histories with and optimism about the public education system as well as different perceptions about how high-stakes tests will affect their children. We find that Latinos strongly support these measures, whereas African Americans and Whites oppose them primarily because African Americans are pessimistic about improving public schools and Whites are concerned about how resources will be redistributed. We also find that those of higher status are more likely to oppose high-stakes testing.
Base-cation Cycling by Individual Tree Species in Old-growth Forests of Upper Michigan, USA

The influence of individual tree species on base-cation (Ca, Mg, K, Na) distribution and cycling was examined in sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.), basswood (Tilia americana L.), and hemlock (Tsuga canadensis L.) in old-growth northern hardwood – hemlock forests on a sandy, mixed, frigid, Typic Haplorthod over two growing seasons in northwestern Michigan. Base cations in biomass, forest floor, and mineral soil (0–15 cm and 15–40 cm) pools were estimated for five replicated trees of each species; measured fluxes included bulk precipitation, throughfall, stemflow, litterfall, forest-floor leachate, mineralization + weathering, shallow-soil leachate, and deep-soil leachate. The three species differed in where base cations had accumulated within the single-tree ecosystems. Within these three single-tree ecosystems, the greatest quantity of base cations in woody biomass was found in sugar maple, whereas hemlock and basswood displayed the greatest amount in the upper 40 cm of mineral soil. Base-cation pools were ranked: sugar maple > basswood, hemlock in woody biomass; sugar maple, basswood > hemlock in foliage; hemlock > sugar maple, basswood in the forest floor, and basswood > sugar maple, hemlock in the mineral soil. Base-cation fluxes in throughfall, stemflow, the forest-floor leachate, and the deep-soil leachate (2000 only) were ranked: basswood > sugar maple > hemlock. Our measurements suggest that species-related differences in nutrient cycling are sufficient to produce significant differences in base-cation contents of the soil over short time intervals (<65 years). Moreover, these species-mediated differences may be important controls over the spatial pattern and edaphic processes of northern hardwood-hemlock ecosystems in the upper Great Lakes region.
Femtosecond Infrared Spectroscopy of Low-Lying Excited States in Reaction Centers of Rhodobacter sphaeroides

The mid- to near-IR difference spectra of optically pumped and unpumped reaction centers were recorded over a time range circa 0.1−20 ps allowing us to isolate kinetically the transient electronic spectra of the excited special pair P* and its charge-separated form P+H-. The spectrum of P* between 1 and 5.2 μm exhibits two main bands, one at 5300 cm-1 and another at 2710 cm-1, while P+H- exhibits two bands, one at 2600 cm-1 and another at 8000 cm-1. These new states do not appear as transitions of unexcited reaction centers at E(P*) + 5300 cm-1 or E(P*) + 2710 cm-1 (although the former is close to the QX transition region of the special pair), suggesting that they derive almost exclusively from charge transfer (PL+PM- or PL-PM+) states. This conclusion is strengthened by the anisotropies obtained by pumping P* and probing these transitions with polarized light. The transition of P+H- at 2600 cm-1 corresponds to the known hole transfer transition, and this assignment is confirmed by kinetic and anisotropy ...
Efficient sampling techniques for uncertainties in risk analysis

Risk and policy analysis involves consideration of uncertainties. A quantitative probabilistic method for uncertainty analysis includes: (1) quantifying and assigning probabilistic distributions to the input uncertainties, (2) sampling the distributions of these uncertain parameters in an iterative fashion using Monte Carlo methods, (3) propagating the effects of uncertainties through the model, and (4) predicting the outcomes in terms of probabilistic measures like mean, variance, and fractiles. However, the results of the probabilistic analysis depend on the number of samples chosen. The sample size required for a particular analysis depends on various factors such as type of model, the random number generator used, type of distributions, and the output probabilistic measure and cannot be universally defined. The general tendency is to reduce the samples as much as possible without realizing the effect on decisions. For example, the mean of the output requires a number of samples that is an order of magnitude less compared to the variance. Therefore, it is desirable to use a sampling technique that can predict the output probabilistic measure accurately with the minimum number of samples. In this work, we present new sampling techniques based on Quasi-Monte Carlo sequences and Latin hypercube sampling.
Defense Applications of GaAs Digital Integrated Circuits

Accomplishments in the development of GaAs digital integrated circuits places the technology ready for insertion into advanced, high performance systems. One micron, depletion MESFET, medium scale ICs are in pilot production at Rockwell International with construction in progress on a LSI/VLSI manufacturing facility. The latest results concerning GaAs digital technology system readiness, including device performance, fabrication yield, reliability, survivability, temperature sensitivity, high speed packaging constraints, and interfacing to other logic families will be given. Comparison to silicon devices technologies being developed within the VESIC program will be given for both present performance levels and projected through 1990. The role of GaAs digital ICs in wideband digital systems will be discussed, and the impact of GaAs ICs on system performance in applications, including electronic warfare, communications, space surveillance and image processing will be shown.
Testing interacting boson model cores through particle-core coupling: Negative parity states in the odd-mass Tl and Au isotopes

Particle-core coupling calculations have been made for the h/sub 9/2/ bands in the odd-Tl isotopes (A = 191--197) and the h/sub 11/2/ bands in the odd-Au isotopes (A = 189--195). The even-mass Hg core descriptions were taken from previous proton-neutron interacting boson model calculations, and thus a comparison between the experimental and calculated level schemes for the Tl and Au isotopes can be interpreted as a test of the core description. A predicted transition from positive Q(2/sup +/) near A = 195 to negative Q(2/sup +/) near A = 191 is not borne out by the odd-A data. These results, combined with new proton-neutron interacting boson model calculations, indicate that the Hg isotopes are more U(5) than O(6) in character.
Synapses, Schizophrenia, and Civilization: What Made Homo Sapient?

. Progress in technology has allowed dynamic research on the development of the human brain that has revolutionized concepts. Particularly, the notions of plasticity, neuronal selection, and the effects of afferent stimuli have entered into thinking about brain development. Here I focus on development from the age of four years to early adulthood, during which a 30 percent reduction in some brain synapses occurs that is out of proportion to changes in neuronal numbers. This corresponds temporally with changes in normal child behavior from the loose-associative, almost schizoid, thinking and art of the four-year-old to the more trained, or disciplined, or acculturated—and restrained—personality of the young adult. I propose that the synaptic changes can best be thought of as a winnowing process likely subject to environmental influences. Acquisition of language and the ability to link linguistic cognition to the plastic development of the brain provide a potentially powerful means of explaining the evolutionally explosive development of human cognition and culture. Schizophrenia, a disease that can be envisioned as representing a derangement of synaptic maturation, may provide an entry into the search for genes controlling the processes mediating the unprecedented development of Homo sapiens over the past 40,000 to 70,000 years. The recently completed mapping of the genome of the chimpanzee provides a new frame of reference that may speed the search.
Low-frequency above-threshold ionization of a model two-electron atom

We calculate the energy spectrum of electrons ejected from a model two-electron atom exposed to an intense laser pulse and follow the spectrum’s evolution in time. For the case of 13-photon double ionization, we see the appearance of above-threshold ionization peaks soon after the laser pulse reaches maximum intensity.
Serum lipid levels in a major league baseball team.

The clinical implications of these findings are that minor isolated T-wave abnormalities should not be ignored, but rather should be regarded as added risk factors for future cardiovascular disease. As such, they may indicate further testing for occult atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.
Subarachnoid block for a patient with progressive chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.

IMPLICATIONS We report a case of successful administration of a spinal anesthetic to a patient with progressive chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). There have been no reports of regional anesthetic management of patients with CIDP.
Model problem for the motion of a compressible, viscous flow with the no-slip boundary condition

We consider the Navier–Stokes equations for the motion of a compressible, viscous, pressureless fluid in the domain \({\Omega = \mathbb{R}^3_+}\) with the no-slip boundary conditions. We construct a global in time, regular weak solution, provided that initial density ρ0 is bounded and the magnitude of the initial velocity u0 is suitably restricted in the norm \({\|\sqrt{\rho_0(\cdot)}{\bf u}_0(\cdot)\|_{L^2(\Omega)} + \|\nabla{\bf u}_0(\cdot)\|_{L^2(\Omega)}}\).