cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aerosol Chemistry, and Light-Scattering and Hygroscopicity Budgets during Outflow from East Asia

During the ACE-Asia field campaign, 41 aerosol filter samples were obtained by airborne sampling over the ocean to the north, south and west of Japan, generally under conditions of outflow from the Asian continent. These samples were analyzed for their water-soluble chemical components, particularly organic species. Suites of inorganic anions, carbohydrates, organic acids and metallic elements were identified and quantified (21 distinct species). Simultaneously, measurements were made of the aerosol hygroscopicity and light scattering. A factor analysis performed on the compositional data identified several sources for the aerosols sampled during the field campaign. Regression of the light-scattering data onto tracers for each of these factors suggests that the aerosol light scattering could be largely attributed to three of these factors: anthropogenic emissions, biomass burning, and soil dust. Similarly, the aerosol hygroscopicity was largely consistent with an empirical mixing model based on past measurements of the hygroscopicity of these individual aerosol types. Limited size-resolved , aerosol composition measurements were also obtained and suggested different sources for various chemical species.
Randomized trials of endoscopic therapy and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt versus portacaval shunt for emergency and elective treatment of bleeding gastric varices in cirrhosis.

Importance Bleeding esophageal varices has been studied extensively, but bleeding gastric varices (BGV) has received much less investigation. However, BGV has been reported in ≤30% of patients with acute variceal bleeding. In our studies of 1,836 bleeding cirrhotics, 12.7% were bleeding from gastric varices. BGV mortality rate of 45–55% has been reported. The BGV literature has mainly involved retrospective case reports, often with short-term follow-up. Objective We sought to describe the results of a prospective, randomized, controlled trial (RCT) in unselected, consecutive patients with BGV comparing endoscopic therapy (ET) with portacaval shunt (PCS; n = 518), and later comparing emergency transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) with emergency portacaval shunt (EPCS; n = 70). Design, setting, and participants Initially, our RCT involved 518 patients with BGV comparing ET with direct PCS regarding control of bleeding, mortality rate, and disability. When entry of patients ended, the RCT was expanded to compare emergency TIPS with EPCS (n = 70). This RCT of BGV was separate from our other RCTs of bleeding esophageal varices. Interventions Initially, ET was compared with PCS. In the second part of our RCT, emergency TIPS was compared with emergency PCS (EPCS). Main outcome measures Outcomes were survival, control of bleeding, portal-systemic encephalopathy (PSE), quality of life, and direct costs of care. In the RCT of ET versus PCS, 28 and 30%, respectively, were in Child class C. In the expanded RCT of TIPS versus EPCS, 40 and 41%, respectively, were in Child class C. Permanent control of BGV was achieved in 97–100% of patients treated by emergency or elective PCS, compared with 27–29% by ET. TIPS was even less effective, achieving long-term control of BGV in only 6%. Survival rates after PCS were greater at all time intervals and in all Child classes (P Conclusion These results support the conclusion that PCS is uniformly effective, whereas ET and TIPS are not very effective.
Electron-beam lithography for the magnetic recording industry: fabrication of nanoscale (10 nm) thin-film read heads

The magnetic recording industry is evaluating electron-beam lithography for magnetoresistive thin-film head production due to the rapid convergence of critical dimensions in thin-film heads with the semiconductor industry's lithography roadmap. In this paper, the fabrication of nanoscale (10 nm generation), contiguous-junction thin-film read heads by electron-beam lithography and hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) resist processing is described. The minimum resolution of the HSQ resist process and the critical parameters, such as exposure dose and delay times, that would require tight control in a production environment in order to yield acceptable linewidth uniformity, both within a single wafer and from wafer to wafer, are presented. This combination of electron-beam lithography and HSQ resist processing provides the magnetic recording industry with the unprecedented ability to fabricate and test thin-film heads at nanoscale dimensions that are almost a decade ahead of its roadmap. It will permit early evaluation of magnetic recording heads for the Terabit per square inch regime and beyond.
Metabolic disease and sudden, unexpected death in infancy

Abstract The prevalence of metabolic disease in infants dying suddenly and unexpectedly is controversial. Most studies have centered on major pediatric institutes with appropriate facilities to study inherited metabolic disease. No studies have been reported from nonacademic centers. We have prospectively studied urine and blood organic and fatty acids from 58 consective infant deaths over a 1-year period in non-teaching hospital medical examiners' offices in the state of Illinois for evidence of metabolic disease. One infant was found to have mediumchain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency, homozygous for the common A985G mutation. One had probable non-A985G MCAD deficiency based on the identification of cis -4-decenoic acid in blood and one had ethylmalonic-adipic aciduria. Thus, we found evidence that inherited metabolic defects are related to unexpected infant death in this population. These disorders are present in a significant minority of infants who probably would have been given the diagnosis of sudden infant death syndrome if they had not undergone metabolic evaluation. We recommend that all infants who have died suddenly and unexpectedly be regarded as high-risk candidates for metabolic disease and that all such deaths be appropritely investigated as part of the routine autopsy procedure.
Novel treatment strategies for chronic myeloid leukemia.

Purpose. Despite dramatic advances in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), resistance to therapeutic agents has emerged as a significant treatment dilemma. Mutations of the BCR-ABL kinase domain, a common mechanism of resistance to imatinib in CML, are discussed. Summary. Several new targeted kinase inhibitors have reached clinical trials and have proved to be efficacious in halting the oncogenic activity of most BCR-ABL mutants. Dasatinib is 300 times more potent than imatinib at BCR-ABL inhibition, has few side effects, and inhibits the SRC family kinases. Nilotinib inhibits BCR-ABL at 20–50 times more potency than imatinib. Both agents were highly effective in treating chronic phase CML but were less effective at treating accelerated phase CML in early phase clinical trials. In addition to these specific kinase inhibitors, farnesyl transferase inhibitors are actively being investigated. Vaccination strategies are undergoing clinical investigation transitioning from animal models to human clinical trials. Conclusion. The new kinase inhibitors, dasatinib and nilotinib, are emerging as plausible therapeutic options for the treatment of imatinib-refractory CML.
Temperature dependence and microwave enhancement of the critical current of superconducting microbridges

The temperature dependence of superconducting tin, thin-film, narrow bridges has been investigated. NearT c the critical current varies with (1 − T/Tcα), with a distribution of α values between 1 and 3/2. It is suggested that the α values can be used to characterize the bridges. The microwave enhancement ofI c andT c was measured and these data were compared with a recent theory by Christiansenet al. on the microbridges. We found that their theory gives a correct prediction for the Dayem effect in the bulklike bridges (with α=3/2) while their theoretical values for the junction-like bridges (with α=1) are not in agreement with our data.
C-terminal hydrophobic interactions play a critical role in oligomeric assembly of the P22 tailspike trimer.

The tailspike protein from the bacteriophage P22 is a well characterized model system for folding and assembly of multimeric proteins. Folding intermediates from both the in vivo and in vitro pathways have been identified, and both the initial folding steps and the protrimer-to-trimer transition have been well studied. In contrast, there has been little experimental evidence to describe the assembly of the protrimer. Previous results indicated that the C terminus plays a critical role in the overall stability of the P22 tailspike protein. Here, we present evidence that the C terminus is also the critical assembly point for trimer assembly. Three truncations of the full-length tailspike protein, TSPΔN, TSPΔC, and TSPΔNC, were generated and tested for their ability to form mixed trimer species. TSPΔN forms mixed trimers with full-length P22 tailspike, but TSPΔC and TSPΔNC are incapable of forming similar mixed trimer species. In addition, mutations in the hydrophobic core of the C terminus were unable to form trimer in vivo. Finally, the hydrophobic-binding dye ANS inhibits the formation of trimer by inhibiting progression through the folding pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that hydrophobic interactions between C-terminal regions of P22 tailspike monomers play a critical role in the assembly of the P22 tailspike trimer.
Sugarbeet sucrose synthase genes differ in organ-specific and developmental expression

A full-length sucrose synthase (SBSS2) cDNA clone was isolated from sugarbeet. Comparison of its composition and organ-specific and developmental expression with a previously isolated sugarbeet sucrose synthase gene (SBSS1) revealed distinct differences between the two genes. The two genes share 80% similarity in deduced amino acid sequence but belong to different sucrose synthase subclasses based on phylogenic analysis. Both sucrose synthases were highly expressed in roots, and had low levels of expression in leaf tissue. Transcript abundance of SBSS2, relative to SBSS1, was greater in young vegetative and floral tissues, and reduced in mature vegetative tissues. The organ-specific and developmental expression of SBSS1 and SBSS2 proteins was similar to SBSS1 and SBSS2 transcript levels, although developmental changes in protein abundance lagged transcriptional changes by many weeks. The similarities and differences in transcript and protein abundance suggest that both transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms are likely to contribute to sucrose synthase expression in sugarbeet.
Abstract 5472: Systems pharmacogenomics approach identifies synergistic molecular action of combined MTOR/HDAC inhibition on MYC

Multiple myeloma (MM) and murine plasmacytoma (PCT) are rare mature B-lymphoid malignancies. Allelic variants of Mtor and Cdkn2a affect susceptibility to PCT, and functional alterations in the PI3K/MTOR and CYCLIN/CDK/CDKI/RB (RB) pathways are common to both malignancies. We found that combining sirolimus (rapamycin), an inhibitor of mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR), with entinostat (MS-275), a selective class I histone deacytlase (HDAC) inhibitor, was synergistic in controlling 90% of tested cell lines derived from B cell malignancies in vitro, effective in limiting xenograft growth in vivo, and diminished cellular viability in ex vivo patient samples. Similarly, the combination reduced tumor burden and volume and increased survival in a long-term, in-vivo study in C.B6-Bcl2l1 mice. To examine the core synergistic consequence of combining entinostat with sirolimus, an integrated, systems-level approach was used. Weighted gene co-expression analysis (WGCNA) of GEP data from MM cells treated individually and in combination was used to identify a distinct module of 126 genes cooperatively affected by both drugs. Of the cooperatively affected genes, 37 were found to be differentially expressed in MM and predictive of survival (p Citation Format: Benjamin J. Gamache, John K. Simmons, Aleksandra Michalowski, Jyoti Patel, Ke Zhang, Shuling Zhang, Wendy DuBois, Adriana Zingone, Michael Kuehl, Jing Huang, Ola Landgren, Beverly Mock. Systems pharmacogenomics approach identifies synergistic molecular action of combined MTOR/HDAC inhibition on MYC. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5472. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5472
Bulk-Grain Gamma Irradiation for Control of Insects Infesting Wheat

A bulk-grain irradiator was used to treat 122 metric tons (5000 bu) of insect-infested wheat to determine the of the operation. The wheat was heavily infested with rice weevils, Sitophilus oryzae (L.); lesser grain borers, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.); and flat grain beetles, Cryptolestes spp. Dosages tested were a low dose that averaged 27.4 krad and a high dose that averaged 41.2 krad. Abundance of all 3 species was greatly reduced by both dosage levels, and control was judged to be satisfactory. However, much of the initial insect population was destroyed by mechanical handling during treatment, and reinfestation of the wheat from outside sources occurred.
Electronic structure of Cu-O chains in the high-Tc superconductor YBa2Cu3O7.

The electronic structure of Cu-O chains in the high-${T}_{c}$ superconductor Y${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ is investigated by self-consistent, all-electron, spin-polarized cluster calculations in the local-spin-density approximation for the cluster ${\mathrm{Ba}}_{4}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$. Four different charge states are considered. No localized moments are present on the Cu atoms in any of the charge states considered. The ground state of the cluster shows strong covalent bonding between the copper and oxygen atoms. Transition-state calculations are made to determine electronic relaxation occurring in photoemission, to calculate the effective Hubbard interaction parameter $U$ for both copper and oxygen sites, and to find the energy required for charge transfer between oxygen and copper atoms. The results are compared with experiment.
Reconstruction in Psychology

(1938). Reconstruction in Psychology. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 5, No. 2, pp. 333-338.
High prevalence of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) infection in South Texas children

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, is etiologically associated with Kaposi's sarcoma and other rare malignancies. HHV-8 infection is common in certain areas of Africa and Italy, but occurs in only 0-15% of populations in North America and Europe. The epidemiology and prevalence of HHV-8 infection among children in the United States has not been determined, but is assumed to be low based on limited studies. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and possible risk factors of HHV-8 infection in children living in south Texas. Questionnaire data were collected and HHV-8 serologic tests were performed from a consecutive, non-probability sample of 123 healthy children (ages 4-13 years) attending general pediatric clinics in south Texas. Serum was tested for HHV-8 antibodies by latent immunofluorescence assay and ORF65 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed by immunoblot. HHV-8 prevalence and 95 percent confidence intervals were calculated using standard epidemiologic methods. Logistic regression was used to assess independent risk factors associated with HHV-8 seropositivity. The overall prevalence of HHV-8 infection was 26%. No statistically significant associations were exhibited between HHV-8 prevalence and the variables under study. The prevalence of HHV-8 infection among children in south Texas, particularly among those under the age of 12 years, indicates that non-sexual transmission of this virus is likely to occur among this population. Future investigations of larger study samples will be necessary to develop an understanding of specific routes and risk factors of HHV-8 transmission among children in south Texas.
Inverse Correlation Between Level of Professional Education and Rate of Handwashing Compliance in a Teaching Hospital

Objective. To evaluate educational level as a contributing factor in handwashing compliance. Design. Observation of hand washing opportunities was performed for approximately 12 weeks before an announced Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) visit and for approximately 10 weeks after the visit. Trained observers recorded the date, time, and location of the observation; the type of healthcare worker or hospital employee observed; and the type of hand hygiene opportunity observed. Setting. University of Toledo Medical Center, a 319-bed teaching hospital. Results. A total of 2,373 observations were performed. The rate of hand washing compliance among nurses was 91.3% overall. Medical attending physicians had the lowest observed rate of compliance (72.4%; P<.001). Nurses showed statistically significant improvement in their rate of hand hygiene compliance after the JCAHO visit (P = .001), but no improvement was seen for attending physicians (P = .117). The compliance rate in th...
The Human Side of Diabetes Care

On behalf of our outstanding team of associate editors, I am honored and privileged to report to you the current state of Diabetes Care at the end of the third year of our tenure. The journal continues to enjoy a wide international readership and a high impact factor that allows us to be ranked fourth out of 92 journals in diabetes and endocrinology and tenth out of 100 general medicine journals. Though we are clearly making progress in clinical science, I want to highlight our challenges, particularly in the humanistic aspects of diabetes, as we contribute to the mission of not only finding a cure for the disease but also improving the lives of people with diabetes. The explosion of interest in the field of diabetes and its comorbidities, along with increased research, has enabled maintenance of the record submission rate established about 2 years ago. This rate seems to have plateaued a bit, perhaps because of frustration with our high rejection rate, which is currently 75%. Regrettably, space constraints often dictate the rejection of many well-done studies, a portion of which the editorial committee is forced to return without external review, thus presenting the difficult task of disappointing authors. I would like to emphasize that this does not mean that the study has not been read internally by our associate editors. The advantage to authors is that they will at least get the “bad news” quickly rather than waiting for several weeks. Having said that, our overall …
Biogenic fluxes in the Cariaco Basin: a combined study of sinking particulates and underlying sediments

Abstract The fluxes of total mass, organic carbon (OC), biogenic opal, calcite (CaCO 3 ) and long-chain C 37 alkenones (ΣAlk 37 ) were measured at three water depths (275, 455 and 930 m) in the Cariaco Basin (Venezuela) over three separate annual upwelling cycles (1996–1999) as part of the CARIACO sediment trap time-series. The strength and timing of both the primary and secondary upwelling events in the Cariaco Basin varied significantly during the study period, directly affecting the rates of primary productivity (PP) and the vertical transport of biogenic materials. OC fluxes showed a weak positive correlation ( r 2 =0.3) with PP rates throughout the 3 years of the study. The fluxes of opal, CaCO 3 and ΣAlk 37 were strongly correlated (0.6 r 2 37 fluxes measured during periods of strong upwelling. All sediment trap fluxes were significantly attenuated with depth, consistent with marked losses during vertical transport. Annually, strong upwelling conditions, such as those observed during 1996–1997, led to elevated opal fluxes (e.g., 35 g m −2 yr −1 at 275 m) and diminished ΣAlk 37 fluxes (e.g., 5 mg m −2 yr −1 at 275 m). The opposite trends were evident during the year of weakest upwelling (1998–1999), indicating that diatom and haptophyte productivity in the Cariaco Basin are inversely correlated depending on upwelling conditions. The analyses of the Cariaco Basin sediments collected via a gravity core showed that the rates of OC and opal burial (10–12 g m −2 yr −1 ) over the past 5500 years were generally similar to the average annual water column fluxes measured in the deeper traps (10–14 g m −2 yr −1 ) over the 1996–1999 study period. CaCO 3 burial fluxes (30–40 g m −2 yr −1 ), on the other hand, were considerably higher than the fluxes measured in the deep traps (∼10 g m −2 yr −1 ) but comparable to those obtained from the shallowest trap (i.e. 38 g m −2 yr −1 at 275 m). In contrast, the burial rates of ΣAlk 37 (0.4–1 mg m −2 yr −1 ) in Cariaco sediments were significantly lower than the water column fluxes measured at all depths (4–6 mg m −2 yr −1 ), indicating the large attenuation in the flux of these compounds at the sediment–water interface. The major trend throughout the core was the general decrease in all biogenic fluxes with depth, most likely due to post-depositional in situ degradation. The major exception was the relatively low opal fluxes (∼5 g m −2 yr −1 ) and elevated ΣAlk 37 fluxes (∼2 mg m −2 yr −1 ) measured in the sedimentary interval corresponding to 1600–2000 yr BP. Such compositions are consistent with a period of low diatom and high haptophyte productivity, which based on the trends observed from the sediment traps, is indicative of low upwelling conditions relative to the modern day.
Dynamic programming is optimal for certain sequential decision processes

A lower bound on the work to find a minimum-cost path in a monotone loop-free sequential decision process is proved. We show that dynamic programming always performs the smallest possible number of function evaluations. This is no more than the number required simply to prove that the chosen path is of minimum cost. 1. A loop-free monotone sequential decision process, considered in [I], can be defined as an acyclic directed graph, G = (V, E), where each edge e has an associated nondecreasing function h,: R --f R. It will be convenient to assume that G has only a single vertex (denoted s) with no entering edges, and only a single vertex (denoted t) with no edges leaving. Parallel edges with different functions may exist between the same pair of vertices. The functions h, can be extended to give path costs by the rule:
Imaging Faults and Shear Zones Using Receiver Functions

The geometry of faults at seismogenic depths and their continuation into the ductile zone is of interest for a number of applications ranging from earthquake hazard to modes of lithospheric deformation. Teleseismic passive source imaging of faults and shear zones can be useful particularly where faults are not outlined by local seismicity. Passive seismic signatures of faults may arise from abrupt changes in lithology or foliation orientation in the upper crust, and from mylonitic shear zones at greater depths. Faults and shear zones with less than near-vertical dip lend themselves to detection with teleseismic mode-converted waves (receiver functions) provided that they have either a contrast in isotropic shear velocity (V s), or a contrast in orientation or strength of anisotropic compressional velocity (V p). We introduce a detection method for faults and shear zones based on receiver functions. We use synthetic seismograms to demonstrate common features of dipping isotropic interfaces and contrasts in dipping foliation that allows determination of their strike and depth without making further assumptions about the model. We proceed with two applications. We first image a Laramide thrust fault in the western U.S. (the Wind River thrust fault) as a steeply dipping isotropic velocity contrast in the middle crust near the surface trace of the fault; further downdip and across the range, where basin geometry suggests the fault may sole into a subhorizontal shear zone, we identify a candidate shear zone signal from midcrustal depths. The second application is the use of microstructural data from exhumed ductile shear zones in Scotland and in the western Canadian Shield to predict the character of seismic signatures of present-day deep crustal shear zones. Realistic anisotropy in observed shear fabrics generates a signal in receiver functions that is comparable in amplitude to first-order features like the Moho. Observables that can be robustly constrained without significant tradeoffs are foliation strike and the depth of the foliation contrast. We find that an anisotropy of only a few percent in the shear zone is sufficient to generate a strong signal, but that the shear zone width is required to be >2 km for typical frequencies used in receiver function analysis to avoid destructive interference due to the signals from the boundaries of the shear zone.
Histamine stimulates glycogenolysis in human astrocytoma cells by increasing intracellular free calcium

Abstract Astrocytes from a variety of sources, including the human UC-11MG astrocytoma line, express receptors for histamine on their plasma membranes, but the function of these receptors is largely unknown. Here we report studies on the effect of histamine on newly synthesized glycogen in the human astrocytoma-derived cell line, UC-11MG. We have found [ 3 H]glycogen hydrolysis with a EC 50 of 2 μM and a maximum effect of 30% at 300 μM histamine. The glycogenolytic effect of histamine was completely blocked by the H 1 receptor antagonist, mepyramine, and was insensitive to the H 2 receptor antagonist, cimetidine. Histamine-induced glycogenolysis was significantly reduced in the absence of extracellular Ca 2+ and the residual response could be accounted for by Ca 2+ released from intracellular stores. The Ca 2+ ionophore, ionomycin, induced a similar concentration-dependent increase in both intracellular Ca 2+ concentration and in glycogenolysis. These results suggest that one function of astrocytic histamine receptors in vivo may be the stimulation of glucose release from astrocytes, and that this process is mediated by increased intracellular free Ca 2+ . The glycogenolytic effect of histamine and other neurotransmitters in different systems, and the possible implication of astrocytic glycogenolysis in the pathophysiology of ischemia are discussed.
Energy Consumption and Savings Model for Cogeneration in Commercial Buildings

ABSTRACT Environmental problems, electricity deregulation, and anxiety over energy security are contributing to growing attention being paid to cogeneration. This study is on the analysis of cogeneration as a conservation strategy for improving energy efficiency in commercial buildings. An energy conservation model for cogeneration that includes applying a simplified method and energy data for a commercial establishment was developed. The methodology calculates the current consumption and future operating costs, savings and simple payback for an upgrade system. It was determined that using this strategy would result in significant energy savings with an appreciable payback for the investments made.
Adolescent depression screening in primary care: feasibility and acceptability.

OBJECTIVE. Despite available depression treatments, only one fourth to one third of depressed adolescents are receiving care. The problem of underdiagnosis and underreferral might be redressed if assessment of suicidality and depression became a more formal part of routine pediatric care. Our purpose for this study was to explore the feasibility and acceptability of implementing adolescent depression screening into clinical practice. METHODS. In this study we implemented a 2-stage adolescent identification protocol, a first-stage pen-and-paper screen and a second-stage computerized assessment, into a busy primary care pediatric practice. Providers tracked the number of eligible patients screened at both health maintenance and urgent care visits and provided survey responses regarding the burden that screening placed on the practice and the effect on patient/parent-provider relationships. RESULTS. Seventy-nine percent of adolescent patients presenting for health maintenance visits were screened, as were the majority of patients presenting for any type of visit. The average completion time for the paper screen was 4.6 minutes. Providers perceived parents and patients as expressing more satisfaction than dissatisfaction with the screening procedures and that the increased time burden could be handled. All providers wished to continue using the paper screen at the conclusion of the protocol. CONCLUSIONS. Instituting universal systematic depression screening in a practice with a standardized screening instrument met with little resistance by patients and parents and was well perceived and accepted by providers.
Genetics and systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex, multifactorial autoimmune disease. Genetic factors are believed to contribute to its pathogenesis. There have been numerous recent advances in the study of murine and human lupus genetics. In well-defined, experimental, transgenic or gene-knockout mouse models, the development of lupus-like disease has implicated specific genes and pathways in the disease pathogenesis. Linkage analyses have mapped multiple susceptibility loci and disease suppressive loci using inbred strains of mice that spontaneously develop lupus-like disease. Elegant genetic dissection has demonstrated that a component phenotype of SLE is displayed by each congenic strain carrying a single susceptibility locus on a resistant genetic background, whereas polycongenic strains exhibit fatal lupus nephritis. These studies suggest that genes in separate pathways can interact to augment or suppress the initiation and progression of systemic autoimmunity. In association studies of human lupus, the contributions of the MHC loci, Fcg receptors, various cytokines, components of the complement cascade, and proteins involved in apoptosis have been explored. Most recently, linkage analyses have been performed and provide many chromosomal regions for further exploration for susceptibility genes. Studies to identify the genes in the susceptibility regions are underway. An understanding of the genes involved in the development of lupus should provide targets for more focused therapy in lupus.
CH4 dehydroaromatization on Mo/H–ZSM-5: 1. Effects of co-processing H2 and CH3COOH

Abstract The co-processing of acetic acid with methane (CH 3 COOH/CH 4 = 0.04–0.10) on Mo/ZSM-5 formulations at 950 K and atmospheric pressure in an effort to couple deoxygenation and dehydrogenation reaction sequences results instead in a stratified reactor bed with upstream CH 4 reforming with acetic acid and downstream CH 4 pyrolysis. X-ray absorption spectroscopy and chemical transient experiments show that molybdenum carbide is formed inside zeolite micropores during CH 4 reactions. The introduction of acetic acid oxidizes a fraction of these carbide moieties upstream while producing H 2 and CO mixtures until completely consumed. Forward rates of CH 4 pyrolysis are unperturbed in the presence of an acetic acid or hydrogen co-feed after rigorously accounting for the reversibility of pyrolysis rates and the fraction of molybdenum carbide oxidized by CH 3 COOH implying that all consequences of CH 3 COOH and H 2 co-feeds can be interpreted in terms of an approach to equilibrium.
Stromatolites of the lower Missoula Group (Middle Proterozoic), Belt Supergroup, Glacier National Park, Montana

Abstract The mode of formation and environmental setting of stromatolites from the lower Missoula Group (ca. 1.1·109 years old) in Glacier National Park, Montana, have been determined. The stromatolite-bearing interval in the lower Missoula Group was deposited in a shallow, intermittently exposed setting of very low relief, the stromatolites forming during periods of submergence. In situ carbonate precipitation was the dominant process involved in the formation of encrusting stromatolitic laminae. This precipitate was deposited within, and probably beneath, algal mats, most likely as a result of the photosynthetic removal of carbon dioxide by the mat-building microscopic algae. Calcite also was precipitated in several types of open-space structures occurring within these stromatolites. Other laminae were produced by the organic stabilization of detrital particles; by the solely physical accumulation of terrigenous material; and probably, by bacterially induced precipitation of iron sulfide which was later oxidized to form hematite layers. Three forms of filamentous microfossils, two of which appear to be oscillatoriacean cyanophytes and the third of which is probably either a cyanophyte or filamentous bacterium, have been detected in these structures. In addition, hematitic pillar-shaped microstructures, interpreted to have been produced by filamentous bacteria, are abundant locally. In gross morphology, the lower Missoula Group stromatolites are simple, unbranched, domal structures ranging from several millimeters to several decimeters in both height and diameter. Physical conditions played a major role in determining the macrostructure of these stromatolites. Of particular importance were the shape of the positive sediment-surface irregularities upon which the stromatolites initially formed, the rate of sedimentation between stromatolite colonies, and the deposition of layers of terrigenous material on stromatolite growth surfaces. The effect of biological factors on stromatolite structure is clearly seen in those portions of stromatolites relatively free of terrigenous material; biological activity was apparently greatest on positive irregularities of the growth surface, resulting in preferential enhancement of such irregularities and development of second- and higher-order hemispheroidal structures.
Algebraic relational approach to conflating images

An approach to conflation/registration of images that does not depend on identifying common points is being developed. It uses the method of algebraic invariants to provide a common set of coordinates to images using continuous chains of line segments formally described as polylines. It is shown the invariant algebraic properties of the polylines provide sufficient information to automate conflation. When there are discrepancies between the image data sets, robust measures of the possibility and quality of match (measures of correctness) are necessary. Decision making and the usability of the resulting conflation depends on such quality control measures. These measures may also be used to mitigate the effects of sensor and observational artifacts. This paper describes the theory of algebraic invariants and presents a conflation/registration method and measures of correctness of feature matching.
Patterns of Flysch Deposition of Lower Stanley Group (Mississippian), Ouachita Mountains, Oklahoma and Arkansas: ABSTRACT

A southern proximal and a northern distal flysch facies are recognized in lower Stanley strata over an area of 5,000 sq mi in the southern and central Ouachita Mountains. Four distinctive tuffs (25-120 ft thick) interbedded with marine graywackes and shales serve as key units for detailed correlation of 8 sections 500-1,500 ft thick. Sandstone geometry, lithology, sedimentary structures, and ratio of sandstone to shale in the proximal and distal facies are similar to modern deep sea fans and associated basin sediments off the southern California coast. Individual sandstones appear to be discontinuous finger- to fan-shaped bodies on isopach and paleocurrent maps. A gradational contact (10-100 ft) between the Arkansas Novaculite and the overlying lower Stanley strata over most of the Ouachitas records a gradual change from predominantly biological/chemical precipitation to clastic sedimentation. A local high, or highs, in the Ouachita trough is indicated by (1) novaculite conglomerate lenses, (2) an angular unconformity, and (3) thinning of the tuffs and strata between the tuffs. The lower 500 ft of the Stanley Group is predominantly a distal flysch facies of shales and thin (6-in.) siltstones over much of the Ouachitas. The distal facies was superseded by a prograding wedge of proximal flysch facies in the southern Ouachitas. The proximal facies changes laterally to a distal flysch facies in the central Ouachitas. The source area may have been a northeastern extension of the buried Luling overthrust front of Texas. End_of_Article - Last_Page 642------------
Level control in feedwater heater systems using nonlinear strategies

Abstract This paper deals with the level control of a horizontal closed feedwater heater in a power generation plant. Due to inherent nonlinearities in the system, conventional PI controllers are often tuned conservatively to preserve stability and hence result in suboptimal performance. In this paper, we propose an advanced control strategy that takes into account the system nonlinearities and demonstrate its ability to regulate the heater level at arbitrary setpoints in the presence of various disturbances. Dynamic response tests were carried out on a full-scale simulator of the feedwater heater in a large power plant to verify the performance of the proposed controller. The results show that a performance improvement of at least an order of magnitude can be achieved. It was also observed that the control inputs needed can be implemented on-line using available valve capabilities.
Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions: Selecting behaviors for treatment and assessing treatment effectiveness

Abstract Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EIBI) is well established as the most effective treatment for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A hallmark of this intervention model is the bundling of multiple behaviors simultaneously for intervention. With the addition of various comorbid problems such as challenging behaviors and psychopathology, it becomes incumbent on clinicians to prioritize behaviors for intervention. Based on the studies conducted to date, little has been done in this regard. Additionally, general measures of ASD, adaptive behavior and cognitive functioning are primarily used to assess outcomes, many of these measures were not designed to assess treatment effects, and little evidence is available to link intervention to specific items on these scales.
Control and reduction of immersion defectivity for yield enhancement at high volume production

Volume device manufacturing using immersion lithography is widely accepted as the solution for patterning IC features below 40 nm half pitch. In order to ensure high yield and steady productivity tight control of defectivity is essential. A major source of defects and tool contamination is the particles introduced by incoming wafers. Particles can be categorized in two groups: particles attached to wafer surface or residues on the wafer edge. Surface or edge peeling of topcoats can also be a source of particle. Adhesion force between topcoat or topcoat-less (TC-less) resist and wafer is one of the most important parameter for particle reduction. Peeling test results proved that TC-less resist has better adhesion performance than topcoat. One of the most commonly used adhesion promoting material is hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS). Application condition of this material is an important factor in preventing wafer edge and surface topcoat peeling. Studies have shown lower temperature and longer application of HMDS shows better adhesion result. Maintaining a clean wafer surface is also a very important factor for particle reduction. Pre-rinse, which can rinse off particles before exposure, was evaluated and the efficiency was confirmed. Edge particles are more effectively reduced by pre-rinse, because weakly attached topcoat and wafer edge residues were effectively removed by pre-rinse. For further particle reduction, edge residue reduction and cut line roughness improvement were evaluated and their effectiveness was confirmed. Lower cut position achieved improved particle counts on both topcoat and TC-less resist; more frequent contact between water and cut-line can weaken the adhesion and consequently peel off topcoat or TC-less resist. Finally the relationship between defectivity and hydrophobicity is analyzed, high Receding Contact Angle (RCA) showed better defectivity result. Topcoat and TC-less process is compared for each defectivity reduction methodology and for each category TC-less process always showed lower defectivity level and less sensitivity to process conditions, indicating that TC-less process is safer and more robust than topcoat process.
Recycling of kinesin-1 motors by diffusion after transport.

Kinesin motors drive the long-distance anterograde transport of cellular components along microtubule tracks. Kinesin-dependent transport plays a critical role in neurogenesis and neuronal function due to the large distance separating the soma and nerve terminal. The fate of kinesin motors after delivery of their cargoes is unknown but has been postulated to involve degradation at the nerve terminal, recycling via retrograde motors, and/or recycling via diffusion. We set out to test these models concerning the fate of kinesin-1 motors after completion of transport in neuronal cells. We find that kinesin-1 motors are neither degraded nor returned by retrograde motors. By combining mathematical modeling and experimental analysis, we propose a model in which the distribution and recycling of kinesin-1 motors fits a “loose bucket brigade” where individual motors alter between periods of active transport and free diffusion within neuronal processes. These results suggest that individual kinesin-1 motors are utilized for multiple rounds of transport.
Isolation and characterization of rDNA-containing chromatin from nucleoli.

Abstract Fractions corresponding to ‘euchromatin’ and ‘heterochromatin’ were isolated from Novikoff hepatoma nucleoli by a modification of the DNase II method of Gottesfeld et al. [18, 19]. Nucleolar chromatin [36] was digested with DNase II, and ‘euchromatin’ was obtained as a soluble fraction following differential precipitation of ‘heterochromatin’ with Mg2+. In this ‘euchromatin’ fraction, the rDNA was enriched approx. 8.5-fold over the unfractionated nucleolar chromatin, as determined by DNA-RNA hybridization. On 8–80% glycerol gradients, the ‘euchromatin’ separated into three discrete subfractions as with euchromatin obtained from the bulk chromatin [18, 19]. Two subfractions which sedimented at 14S and 20S, respectively, were consistently found after DNase II digestion (to 15 min) which contained all histone fractions. All euchromatin subfractions were enriched in rDNA and had a high protein/DNA ratio, a high RNA-DNA ratio, and a high template activity with exogenous RNA polymerase I. Fraction B with a sedimentation of 14S was most enriched in the parameters related to rRNA synthesis. The Mg2+-precipitable fractions reported to be ‘heterochromatin’ [18, 19] not only contained substantial amounts of ribosomal genes, but also had higher template activities than unsheared chromatin. These results imply (1) nucleolar ‘euchromatin’ has a structural heterogeneity similar to that of the euchromatin containing active single copy sequences; (2) at least a portion of rDNA in ‘euchromatin’ is protected by proteins, including histones, which does not preclude active transcription of rDNA; (3) none of the currently used criteria for ‘euchromatin’ alone defines the chromatin containing rDNA; and (4) an appreciable enrichment of rDNA occurs in isolated euchromatin but not all the rDNA was separated into ‘euchromatin’ by the DNase II method.
Tectonic Features of the Hecla Hook Formation to the South of St. Jonsfjord, Vestspitsbergen

"A structural study of rocks of the Hecla Hook formation in the area of Forlandsundet of Vestspitsbergen reveals the presence of two B-axes. The earlier (B 1 ) trends roughly east-west and affects only the Hecla Hook formation; the later axis (B 2 ) trends roughly north-south, and affects also rocks of Carboniferous age. It is suggested that B 1 is the main 9Caledonian9 axis in this area, and that B 2 and the roughly north-south 9grain9 of the rocks concerned are lower Tertiary phenomena."
Polyiodoimidazoles and their nitration products

Abstract The preparations of 4,5-diiodoimidazole and 2,4,5-triiodoimidazole from imidazole were reinvestigated and convenient procedures for excellent yields described. 2,4,5-Triiodoimidazole can be selectively converted to 2,4(5)-dinitro-5(4)-iodoimidazole and 2,4,5-trinitroimidazole by nitrolysis. 2,4(5)-Dinitroimidazole was converted by nitration into 2,4,5-trinitroimidazole and isolated as the imidazolium and potassium salts in 38% and 15% yields respectively.
Surgical Management of Amiodarone-associated Thyrotoxicosis: Mayo Clinic Experience

Amiodarone-associated thyrotoxicosis (AAT) is often poorly tolerated owing to underlying cardiac disease, and it is frequently refractory to conventional medical treatment. The goal of this study was to describe the patient characteristics, management, and outcomes of all the patients treated surgically for AAT at a single institution. We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients managed surgically for AAT (April 1985 through November 2002) at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Altogether, 29 men and 5 women, ages 39 to 85 years (median 60 years), treated with amiodarone for 3 to 108 months underwent near-total or total thyroidectomy. Frequent symptoms were worsening heart failure, fatigue, weight loss, and tremor. Altogether, 12 patients failed medical management of their AAT, and 21 received no preoperative medical therapy. One patient had been successfully managed medically but required definitive treatment. Common indications for operation were the need to remain on amiodarone, cardiac decompensation, medically refractory disease, and severe symptoms, both hyperthyroid and cardiac, necessitating prompt resolution. The median ± SD American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification (1 = healthy through 5 = moribund) was 3.00 ± 0.58. A total of 27 specimens had histology consistent with AAT. Complications included death (n = 3), rehospitalization (n = 3), symptomatic hypocalcemia (n = 2), pneumonia (n = 2), cervical hematoma (n = 1), prolonged ventilatory wean (n = 1), and stroke (n = 1); one patient developed hypotension, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and sepsis. Of the 31 surviving patients, 25 (80%) remained on amiodarone postoperatively. The median follow-up was 29 months, at which time all surviving patients were free of hyperthyroid symptoms. Thyroidectomy is an effective treatment for AAT but has a high incidence of perioperative morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular co-morbidities and high operative risk in this group of patients may account for the increased complication rate.
Isolation and Culture of Avian Embryonic Valvular Progenitor Cells

Proper formation and function of embryonic heart valves is critical for developmental progression. The early embryonic heart is a U-shaped tube of endocardium surrounded by myocardium. The myocardium secretes cardiac jelly, a hyaluronan-rich gelatinous matrix, into the atrioventricular (AV) junction and outflow tract (OFT) lumen. At stage HH14 valvulogenesis begins when a subset of endocardial cells receive signals from the myocardium, undergo endocardial to mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and invade the cardiac jelly. At stage HH25 the valvular cushions are fully mesenchymalized, and it is this mesenchyme that eventually forms the valvular and septal apparatus of the heart. Understanding the mechanisms that initiate and modulate the process of EMT and cell differentiation are important because of their connection to serious congenital heart defects. In this study we present methods to isolate pre-EMT endocardial and post-EMT mesenchymal cells, which are the two different cell phenotypes of the prevalvular cushion. Pre-EMT endocardial cells can be cultured with or without the myocardium. Post-EMT AV cushion mesenchymal cells can be cultured inside mechanically constrained or stress-free collagen gels. These 3D in vitro models mimic key valvular morphogenic events and are useful for deconstructing the mechanisms of early and late stage valvulogenesis.