cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
WE‐E‐214‐02: Dose Response Modeling for Targeted Radiotherapies

The efficacy of biologically targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) is dependent on the properties of the treatment strategy, the vector (carrier) molecule, the radionuclide products, and the target and normal tissue architecture. Both dose estimation and cellular response at the lower dose rates of TRT are more complex than typical external beam or high dosebrachytherapies, for both targeted and normal tissues. Estimation of TRTresponse of target and normal tissues suffers from inaccurate macroscopic dose estimation, heterogeneous microscopic dose and dose rate dependence, and confounding factors including pretreatment patient status and treatment synergy with concurrent treatment regimens. Cellular response depends on cell survival, being influenced by apoptosis, damage repair, cell division delay, cell cycle redistribution, reoxygenation, regeneration and bystander effects. Tissue response can be described using the linear‐quadratic model, including allowances forthe effects of the above modifying factors. The demand for improved therapy (dose) response modeling, a prerequisite for improved therapy dose optimization, requires more extensive and detailed imaging. Effects that can be modeled usingquantitative imaging are: 1) tissue changes over an extended therapy interval (e.g. SPECT/CT, dual energy CT);2) macro and micro structure and activity distributions of targeted and normal tissues (e.g. SPECT/CT, autoradiography); and 3) macroscopic effects of cell response to therapy (e.g. PET/CT). To help accomplish this, increased efforts are being made to perform more frequent high‐resolution imaging, along with potential correlation to biomarkers. Results point to characteristic non‐uniform micro distributions that can be used to modify therapy—response estimates based on routine macro distribution measurements. Examples of the need for improved imaging include 1) evidence that imaging‐based bone marrow doses correlate with outcome better than blood‐based methods; 2) dose estimations from 3D (SPECT/CT) methods are significantly superior to 1D (planar) methods; 3) evidence that factors other than dose affect therapy outcomes, possibly with synergistic relationships with dose and dose rate. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the importance of quantitative imaging and reconstruction for therapy response modeling in TRT 2. Understand the importance of modeling biological effects in TRT in comparison to external beam therapy 3. Learn some approaches to therapy response modeling of TRT
The impact of provider volume on outcomes from urological cancer therapy

ABSTRACTPurpose: Growing evidence suggests an association between higher hospital and surgeon volumes, and better outcomes after high risk surgical procedures. We reviewed the literature on volume and outcomes, specifically in urological cancer therapy.Materials and Methods: We searched the literature from 1966 to 2004 using MEDLINE with the keywords outcomes, urology, neoplasms, volume, hospital volume, surgeon volume, prostatectomy, cystectomy, nephrectomy, prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer and testis cancer. Relevant articles were reviewed and results were compared for each urological cancer.Results: Several studies demonstrated that higher hospital volume is associated with better outcomes for all urological cancer surgeries. We found that long-term morbidity associated with radical prostatectomy is significantly associated with individual surgeon volume. There were variations in outcome even among high volume surgeons, suggesting that surgical technique can independently impact outcome. ...
Embedding higher-level Kac-Moody algebras in heterotic string models☆

Heterotic string models in which the space-time gauge symmetry is realized as a level k⩾2 Kac-Moody algebra on the string world-sheet offer phenomenological features not present for the level k = 1 case (which includes all heterotic string models seriously considered to date). In particular, string models with N = 1 space-time supersymmetry and/or chiral matter fields can contain massless scalar fields in the adjoint (or higher-dimensional) representation of the gauge group provided that k ⩾ 2. Some explicit examples in four dimensions constructed solely from free, real world-sheet fermions are given, contradicting recent would-be no go theorems, and re-opening the possibilities for embedding standard Grand Unified Theories within string models. The possibilities for more general constructions allowing higher-level Kac-Moody algebras are also briefly discussed.
Novel thermoset resins cured via charge donor-acceptor reactions

Abstract Novel thermosetting resins from donor-acceptor zwitterionic curing of oxazolines and maleimides show promise in composite, coating and adhesive applications. They offer potential advantages such as a broad temperature processing window, up to 300°C application temperature and a balance of physical properties.
The metabolic cost of operating a bicycle generator light

The purpose of the study was to determine the metabolic cost of operating a bicycle generator (dynamo) light. Nineteen subjects (12 males, 7 females) volunteered to participate in the study. All tests were conducted using a multigeared road bicycle mounted on a Velodyne computer-controlled, electromagnetically-braked bicycle training simulator. A tyre sidewall-driven 6V 3W bicycle generator was attached to the bicycle frame. Tyre pressure was maintained at 6.12 atm. Gears were prescribed to produce simulated riding speeds of approximately 13 and 21 km h(-1) at 62 rpm. Subjects rode four, 5-min stages during the test session to evaluate riding under conditions of generator OFF or ON at each speed. Oxygen consumption, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded at the end of each minute. Paired samples t tests revealed significant differences between generator OFF and ON conditions for both the metabolic cost of cycling and heart rate at each of the speeds tested. There were no significant differences found between conditions for RPE. Bicycling with the generator ON increased oxygen consumption by 8.4% at 13 km h(-1) and 9.6% at 21 km h(-1). Language: en
Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cell (BMDSC) transplantation improves fertility in a murine model of Asherman's syndrome

Asherman's Syndrome is characterized by intrauterine adhesions or fibrosis resulting as a consequence of damage to the basal layer of endometrium and is associated with infertility due to loss of normal endometrium. We have previously shown that bone marrow derived stem cells (BMDSCs) engraft the endometrium in mice and humans and Ischemia/reperfusion injury of uterus promoted BMDSCs migration to the endometrium; however, the role of BMDSCs in Asherman's syndrome has not been characterized. Here a murine model of Asherman's syndrome was created by traumatizing the uterus. We evaluate stem cell recruitment and pregnancy after BMDSCs transplantation in a model of Asherman's syndrome. In the Asheman's syndrome model, after BMDSC transplant, the Y chromosome bearing CD45-cells represented less than 0.1% of total endometrial cells. Twice the number of Y+CD45- cells was identified in the damaged uterus compared to the uninjured controls. There was no significant difference between the damaged and undamaged uterine horns in mice that received injury to a single horn. In the BMDSC transplant group, 9 of the 10 mice conceived, while only 3 of 10 in the non-transplanted group conceived (Chi-Square p = 0.0225); all mice in an uninjured control group conceived. The time to conception and mean litter size were not different between groups. Taken together, BMDSCs are recruited to endometrium in response to injury. Fertility improves after BMDSC transplant in Asherman's Syndrome mice, demonstrating a functional role for these cells in uterine repair. BMDSC transplantation is a potential novel treatment for Asherman's Syndrome and may also be useful to prevent Asherman's syndrome after uterine injury.
Comparison of aroma volatiles in commercial Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines using gas chromatography-olfactometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Seventy-four aroma active compounds were observed in Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines produced in California and Australia. Volatiles were sampled using solid phase microextraction and analyzed using time-intensity gas chromatography−olfactometry and gas chromatography−mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The most intense odorants were 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, octanal, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl 2-methylbutanoate, β-damascenone, 2-methoxyphenol, 4-ethenyl-2-methoxy-phenol, ethyl 3-methylbutanoate, acetic acid, and 2-phenylethanol. Aroma compounds were classified according to their aroma descriptor similarity and summed into nine distinct categories consisting of fruity, sulfury, caramel/cooked, spicy/peppery, floral, earthy, pungent/chemical, woody, and green/vegetative/fatty. Both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines were characterized by high fruity, caramel, green, and earthy aroma totals. Although there were distinct quantitative differences between Merlot and Cabernet wines, the relative aroma c...
Chemolithotrohic Bacteria: Distributions, Functions and Significance in Volcanic Environments

A mosaic of environments comprises most volcanic ecosystems. Whether terrestrial or submarine, many of these environments contain large deposits of reduced minerals, or experience large fluxes of reduced substrates, especially sulfur-containing compounds. These systems, which also are typically characterized by temperature and pH extremes, have yielded a rich variety of chemolithotrophic bacteria, and contributed much to our understanding of chemolithotroph ecology and physiology. However, volcanic ecosystems also consist of environments where inorganic and organic substrates are limiting. In these cases, chemolithotrophs may still play important roles by scavenging carbon monoxide, hydrogen or both. These gases can support metabolism of facultative chemolithotrophs, a functional group that includes many nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Facultative chemolithotrophs may not only represent important early colonists on fresh volcanic substrates (e.g., basalts lacking sulfides), they may also contribute significantly to ecosystem succession through nitrogen fixation and interactions with vascular plants. Analyses of CO and hydrogen consumption by recent deposits on Kilauea volcano show that both substrates support significant activity, while molecular approaches show a high diversity of lithotrophs. Collectively, these and other observations indicate that chemolithotrophic metabolism is more widespread than generally acknowledged, and likely to play fundamental roles in shaping ecosystem dynamics.
TRANSPORTATION RATES AND LOCATION OF THE FIRM: A COMPARATIVE STATIC ANALYSIS*

This paper examines the role of the structure of transportation rates in the Weber-Moses triangle model. It shows that, in Zeigler's analysis, the appearance of the price elasticities of demand for inputs actually vanish by a simple application of the envelope theorem. Applying comparative statics analysis, we show when transportation rates are a function of quantity and distance, the assumptions that the production function is homogeneous of degree one and the transportation rates elasticities with respect to quantity and distance are constant are not sufficient to insure that the optimum location is independent of the level of output. This result is significantly different from that obtained by either Miller and Jensen or Zeigler.
Understanding the Dimensions of Self-Exploration in Web-Based Learning Environments

AbstractThis study investigated the dimensions of self-exploration in Web-based learning environments using an attitude survey given to 209 college students. Through factor analysis, five dimensions of self-exploration in Web-based learning environments were identified. One-way analysis of variance revealed statistically significant differences in levels of self-exploration in three dimensions by gender and in four dimensions by native English speaking ability. Understanding the dimensions of self-exploration in Web-based learning environments among college students may help educators (1) design effective Web-based instructional materials, (2) identify Web resources that draw on students’ learning needs and interests, and (3) consider different interests of students who speak English as a second language.
Utilizing the Explicit Finite Element Method for Studying Granular Flows

Granular flows are systems of complex dry particulates whose behavior is difficult to predict during sliding contact. Existing computational tools used to simulate granular flows are particle dynamics, cellular automata (CA), and continuum modeling. In the present investigation, another numerical tool—the explicit finite element method (FEM)—is analyzed as a potential technique for simulating granular flow. For this purpose, explicit dynamic finite element models of parallel shear cells were developed. These models contained 52 particles and consisted of granules that are both round and multi-shaped (diamond, triangle, and rectangle). Each parallel shear cell consisted of a smooth stationary top wall and a rough bottom surface that was given a prescribed velocity of U = 0.7 in/sec (1.78 cm/s). The coefficient of friction (COF) between the particle–particle and particle–wall collisions was varied between 0.0 and 0.75. Utilizing the output of the simulations, results are presented for the shear behavior, particle kinetic energy, and particle stresses within the shear cell as a function of time. As a means of validating the explicit technique for granular flow, a 75 particle, zero roughness, couette shear cell model (solid fraction of 0.50) is subsequently presented for which direct comparisons are made to the results published by Lun. [Lun, C.K. et al.: Phys. Fluids 8, 2868–2883 (1996)] Overall, the results indicate that the explicit FEM is a powerful tool for simulating granular flow phenomena in sliding contacts. In fact, the explicit method demonstrated several advantages over existing numerical techniques while providing equivalent accuracy to the molecular dynamics (MD) approach. These advantages included being able to monitor the collision (sub-surface and surface) stresses and kinetic energies of individual particles over time, the ability to analyze any particle shape, and the ability to capture force chains during granular flow.
Jannis K. Androutsopoulos & Alexandra Georgakopoulou (eds.), Discourse constructions of youth identities. Amsterdam: John Benjamins, 2003. Pp. vii, 331. Hb $105.00.

Discourse constructions of youth identities is an eclectic collection of 12 papers which examine the language of youth in England, Greece, Turkey, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and Japan. The authors use various methodologies, including narrative analysis, conversational analysis, sociolinguistics, and Critical Discourse Analysis, to look at the language practices of youth ranging in age from nine years to the early twenties. In addition to studies of spontaneous peer group interaction in schools and youth centers, the volume also includes work on various kinds of expressive culture, focus group interactions, and interviews.
Respiratory burst of neutrophils is not required for stem cell mobilization in mice

It has been suggested that mature neutrophils may play an essential role in the cascade of events leading to egress of stem cells from the bone marrow to the peripheral blood. To investigate further the role of mature neutrophils and of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs), known to be involved in the signal transduction of neutrophils, we used mice deficient in respiratory burst, and thus the production of ROIs, to study the involvement of this activation pathway in stem cell mobilization. B6 mice with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) received either cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg) on day 1 and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) (250 microg/kg/d) on days 3-6 or a single dose of interleukin 8 (IL-8; 30 microg/mouse) as a mobilization regimen. On day 7, the number of stem and progenitor cells in blood and bone marrow was compared with control B6 animals (with intact respiratory burst). White blood cell counts, bone marrow cellularity and the frequency of granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming cells (GM-CFC), and cobblestone area-forming cells (CAFC) on days 7 (CAFC-7) and 28 (CAFC-28) were determined. After cyclophosphamide and G-CSF (CY + G), both mouse strains showed considerable mobilization of CAFC-7 and CFU-GM to the blood. Normal mice showed up to a 1905-fold increase in progenitors per ml blood, whereas CGD mice showed up to a 264-fold increase in blood progenitors. IL-8 also induced mobilization in both mouse strains. In addition to progenitors, primitive stem cells measured as CAFC-28 and as CAFC at day 35 were also mobilized by both mobilization protocols in normal as well as in CGD mice. In conclusion, respiratory burst and the subsequent signal transduction pathway do not appear to be required for mobilization of stem cells. Accordingly, neutrophils either are not involved in stem cell mobilization or other signalling pathways within neutrophils must exist that lead to the release of factors which activate stem cell egress from the bone marrow.
Fractional generalizations of filtering problems and their associated fractional Zakai equations

In this paper we discuss fractional generalizations of the filtering problem. The ”fractional” nature comes from time-changed state or observation processes, basic ingredients of the filtering problem. The mathematical feature of the fractional filtering problem emerges as the Riemann-Liouville or Caputo-Djrbashian fractional derivative in the associated Zakai equation. We discuss fractional generalizations of the nonlinear filtering problem whose state and observation processes are driven by time-changed Brownian motion or/and Levy process.
Communications Revolutions and the Enactment of Culture

This essay examines first the instrumental biases which have been imported into the study of communication and culture by the fixation upon the "media" of communication. It goes on to examine traditional communications revolutions noting the salient difference between these and contemporary transformations of communicative practice. In conclusion, I raise the question of why changes in communication have always stimulated anxieties about the stability of social and psychic norms. To answer this question one must be aware of the symbolic values which the media—oral, literate, and electronic—have acquired. It is by manipulating these values that the history of communication can become a "myth" and an enactment of our contemporary cultural situation.
Ultraviolet Extinction and Visible Transparency by Ivy Nanoparticles

Though much research has been conducted for nanoparticles, naturally occurring nanoparticles have not yet been well explored for their diverse properties and potential applications. This paper reports the optical absorption and scattering properties of nanoparticles secreted by English ivy. Both experimental and theoretical studies have been conducted. Strong ultraviolet extinction and excellent visible transparency are observed, compared to the inorganic TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles at similar concentrations. The contributions of absorption and scattering to the total extinction are quantified by simulation of the Mie scattering theory.
Immunocytochemical localization and messenger ribonucleic acid levels of a progesterone-dependent endometrial secretory protein (cathepsin L) in the pregnant cat uterus.

The purpose of this study was to localize iinmunocytochemically a progesterone-dependent protein (PDP) and to determine PDP mRNA levels during the initial stage of the implantation period. Uterine tissue was collected from Day 0-18 postcoital animals. The tissue was processed for immunocytochemical localization of PDP, and the endomethal RNA was isolated and analyzed for PDP gene expression by slot-blot hybridization. PDP was detected immunocytochemically as early as Day 5 post. coitus in the epitheial cells of the deep uterine glands, and the intensity of immunostaining appeared to peak by Day 12 post. coitus. PDP was absent in the endometrium obtained from implantation sites after Day 16 postcoitus, but the synthesis of PDP was maintained in the endomethum obtained from nonimplantation sites. Immunogold electron, microscopy demonstrated that PDP was present in electron-dense granules of the glandular epithelial cells. PDP mRNA was detectable in the endometrium at Day 5 postcoitus and peaked around Day 10 postcoitus. P1)1’ mRNA was absent in the endometrium from implantation sites after Day 16 postcoitus, but was maintained in the endometrium from nonimplantation sites. In summary, the results of this study illustrate that PDP is synthesized within the epithelial cells of the deep uterine glands, packaged within membrane-bound secretory granules, and released into the uterine lumen. Also, the process of implantation alters the gene expression in a very localized way since PDP mRNA and PDP-positive granules were absent in the endometrial glands obtained from the implantation site within 1-2 days of the onset of implantation, whereas both PDP mRNA and PDP-positive granules were maintained in the endometrial glands from nonimplantation.site regions. Thus, our data clearly show that PDP gene expression is altered by the implanting conceptus and suggest that PDP (cathepsin L) may play a role in the implantation process.
Fabrication and characterization of CdS/CIS nanowire heterojunctions

Nanowire arrays of CIS were formed inside porous alumina templates by pulsed potential electrodeposition. Close to stoichiometric CIS phase in a chalcopyrite crystal structure with a = 5.782 A and c = 11.619 A. was obtained. Atomic weight fractions of Cu, In and Se were 20%:38%:42%. Arrays of cadmium sulfide nanowire were also fabricated inside the porous AAO templates. The XRD pattern of the CdS nanowires indicated the hexagonal lattice with the dominant crystal planes of , and . The absorption spectrum of as-prepared CdS nanowires showed the blue shift of the absorption edge from the bulk crystal value of 515 nm to 490 nm. Al/CIS and Au/CdS Nanowire Schottky diodes were fabricated and their electrical properties were investigated. Diode analysis on the Au/CdS device reveled that the values of the effective diode ideality factor (A) and the effective reverse saturation current (J 0 ,), were, 8.0 and 0.32 mA/cm2 in the dark, and 9.9 and 0.9 mA/cm2 under illumination. The fact that the measured values of effective diode ideality factor (A) were larger than 2.0 indicates that the dominant mechanism of electron transport across the junction is likely to be tunneling and/or interface state recombination, or a combination of these two.
Multicomponent hydrogen/hydrocarbon separation by MFI-type zeolite membranes

Separation of an eight-component simulated refinery gas mixture including hydrogen (∼84 mol %) and light hydrocarbons (C1–C4, 7.5∼0.3 mol %) by α-alumina-supported polycrystalline MFI zeolite membranes was studied at 25–500°C and feed pressures of 0.1–0.4 MPa. The zeolite membrane showed excellent separation properties for rejection of hydrogen from the hydrogen/hydrocarbon mixture at <100°C. At room temperature and atmospheric pressure on both feed and permeate sides, hydrogen permeation rate is almost zero, while the hydrocarbon permeation rate is 2–4×10−4 mol·m−2·s−1. The zeolite membrane outperforms the microporous carbon membrane in terms of both selectivity and permeance for hydrocarbons over hydrogen. At 500°C the zeolite membrane becomes permselective for hydrogen over hydrogen (C1–C4). In the whole temperature range iso-butane is nonpermeable (with a permeance below the GC analysis limit) through the zeolite membrane. Separation results of the zeolite membrane can be characterized by a solution-diffusion model considering competitive adsorption of hydrocarbons over hydrogen and configurational diffusion in the zeolite pores. The MFI-type zeolite membranes showed promise for applications in separation processes for hydrogen concentration/purification from various hydrogen/hydrocarbon mixtures (at lower temperatures) and in membrane reactors for dehydrogenation reactions (at high temperatures).
Shape and Refractive Powers in Corneal Topography

Purpose. To compare the relative advantages and disadvantages of four different representations of corneal power-identified as instantaneous, axial, position, and refractive-based on curvature, slope, coordinate position, and focal properties, respectively. Method. The four types of corneal power were evaluated by examining their interrelationship for 12 hypothetical corneal shapes chosen to represent the general characteristics of regular, irregular, and surgically altered corneas. Results. There is only a limited association between refractive power and the other three powers, which are based on shape properties. For corneal shapes represented by ellipsoids of low eccentricity (e), refractive power increased as a function of the distance from the reference axis, whereas axial and instantaneous powers were either constant (for e = 0) or decreased, with instantaneous power having the largest decrease. Refractive power decreased for elliptical corneal shapes with eccentricities greater than the reciprocal of the index of refraction, although always decreasing less than the axial or instantaneous power. For various corneal shapes formed by segments of circles (or a polynomial) with large differences in instantaneous power, the refractive power was more closely associated with axial than instantaneous or position powers. Conclusions. The Purkinje image measurements from videokeratography are most closely related to the slope-based axial power because it is slope that determines the direction of reflected rays forming the corneal image. Because of this direct connection, axial power is less sensitive to noise than is refractive, instantaneous, or position power. Present videokeratographs that report axial power provide an approximation of refractive power, but if an exact refractive power is needed it can be calculated easily. Instantaneous power provides the most sensitive measure of local curvature changes, such as those occurring in keratoconus or refractive surgery. There are unique practical applications for each of the four powers. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1995 ;36 :2096-2109.
Optimal antenna topologies for spatial gradient detection in differential GNSS

This paper describes new methods to determine optimal reference antenna topologies for detection of spatial gradients in differential Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Such gradients can be caused by ionospheric fronts and orbit ephemeris faults, and if undetected, represent major threats to aircraft navigation integrity. Differential carrier phase measurements between ground antennas are highly sensitive to spatial gradients. Therefore, monitors using spatially separated ground antennas have recently attracted great interest. However, they cannot detect gradients of all sizes and directions due to the presence of integer ambiguities. These ambiguities cannot be resolved because the gradient magnitude is unknown a priori. Furthermore, the performance of such monitors is highly dependent on the spatial distribution of reference antennas. In this work, we introduce new methods to find optimized antenna topologies for spatial gradient detection.
Replication of rubella vaccine population genetic studies: validation of HLA genotype and humoral response associations.

Purported genetic associations found in population studies require validation for confirmation. We previously reported rubella vaccine-induced immune responses and HLA associations in 346 adolescents, age 12–18 years (1st cohort), following two doses of a rubella-containing vaccine. We sought to replicate the associations discovered in that work by verifying these associations in a new cohort of 396 subjects, age 11–19 years (2nd cohort), all having had two doses of a rubella-containing vaccine. We found that B*2705 (median 1st cohort 20.9 IU/ml, p = 0.028; 2nd cohort 20.5 IU/ml, p = 0.001) and DPA1*0201 (median 1st cohort 32.5 IU/ml, p = 0.048; 2nd cohort 25.8 IU/ml, p = 0.025) alleles were consistently associated with lower rubella-induced antibodies. Further, DPB1*0401 (median 1st cohort 43.5 IU/ml, p = 0.021; 2nd cohort 36.2 IU/ml, p = 0.002) alleles were associated with higher antibody levels in both populations. The association of DRB1*04-DQB1*03-DPB1*03 (mean 1st cohort 25.2 IU/ml, p = 0.011; 2nd cohort 21.4 IU/ml, p = 0.032) and DRB1*15/16-DQB1*06-DPB1*03 (1st cohort 16.3 IU/ml, p = 0.043; 2nd cohort 19.1 IU/ml, p = 0.023) haplotypes with lower rubella-specific antibodies was observed in both studies. This study provides confirmatory evidence for an association between specific class I and II HLA markers and haplotypes with rubella vaccine-induced humoral responses and lends further weight to their influence on rubella immune responses.
Transthyretin (TTR) Cardiac Amyloidosis

The systemic amyloidoses are a family of diseases induced by misfolded or misassembled proteins. Extracellular deposition of these proteins as soluble or insoluble cross β-sheets disrupts vital organ function.1 More than 27 different precursor proteins have the propensity to form amyloid fibrils.2 The particular precursor protein that misfolds to form amyloid fibrils defines the amyloid type and predicts the patient's clinical course. Several types of amyloid can infiltrate the heart, resulting in progressive diastolic and systolic dysfunction, congestive heart failure, and death. Treatment of cardiac amyloidosis is dictated by the amyloid type and degree of involvement. Consequently, early recognition and accurate classification are essential.3 The diagnosis of amyloidosis requires histological identification of amyloid deposits. Congo Red staining renders amyloid deposits salmon pink by light microscopy, with a characteristic apple green birefringence under polarized light conditions (Figure 1). Additional immunohistochemical staining for precursor proteins identifies the type of amyloidosis (Figure 2).4 Ultimately, immunogold electron microscopy and mass spectrometry confer the greatest sensitivity and specificity for amyloid typing.5,6 Figure 1. Congo Red staining of myocardial tissue from a patient with amyloid cardiomyopathy. A , Light microscopy; B , polarized light microscopy, 400× magnification. Figure 2. Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy by immunohistochemical staining. Endomyocardial biopsy samples were stained with antibodies to ( A ) kappa light chain, ( B ) lambda light-chain, ( C ) serum amyloid A, and ( D ) transthyretin amyloid. Bright-light micrographs at 400× magnification. Two types of amyloid commonly infiltrate the heart: (1) Immunoglobulin light-chain (AL or primary systemic) amyloid and (2) transthyretin (TTR) amyloid. Transthyretin-related amyloidoses, in turn, encompass 2 forms of disease: Familial disease arising from misfolding of a mutated or variant TTR (familial amyloid cardiomyopathy or familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy [FAP]) and a sporadic, nongenetic disease caused by misaggregation of wild-type transthyretin (senile systemic amyloidosis [SSA]). Cardiac amyloidosis can also be …
Label-free microfluidic characterization of temperature-dependent biomolecular binding

We present a microfluidic approach to characterizing temperature dependent biomolecular binding. A ligand and its affinity receptor, one of which is surface-immobilized and the other remaining in solution, are allowed to achieve equilibrium binding in a microchip at a series of selected temperatures. The unbound molecules in solution are subsequently collected and analyzed with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS), yielding temperature dependent equilibrium binding profiles of the ligand-receptor system. As examples, the thermally dependent properties of equilibrium binding of adenosine monophosphate, platelet-derived growth factor and arginine vasopressin with their affinity nucleic acid aptamers were investigated. The binding profile obtained for each biomolecular system revealed highly temperature dependent zones in which affinity binding or dissociation occurs. These results demonstrate that our microfluidic approach, which does not use any molecular labeling groups, can potentially be used to characterize receptor-ligand binding for applications in biosensing, biomolecular purification, and drug development.
A current-controlled PWM bipolar power supply for a magnet load

The Advanced Photon Source, at Argonne National Laboratory will produce the world's brightest X-ray beams when it is complete. A number of correction magnets are used to maintain proper beam position. Basically, two different types of bipolar power supplies are used for all the correction magnets: one requires DC correction only, and the other requires DC and AC correction. Normally linear-mode power amplifiers would be used for the bipolar power supplies. However, linear-mode power amplifiers dissipate a substantial amount of power as heat, resulting in poor efficiency for their large size. In addition, most commercial bipolar power supplies are linear-mode and available for lower power levels. Therefore, for higher power levels it was necessary to design a bipolar power supply that uses switch-mode power conversion. This paper describes a control technique for a pulse-width-modulated bipolar power supply, which can deliver a controlled current, DC plus AC, to a correction magnet. A design example of a 150 A bipolar power supply is presented. >
Time-dependent isolated anomalies in zonal flows

A theory is developed for time-dependent coherent structures in a marginally stable atmospheric zonal flow. The coherent structures have the form of solitary waves travelling in the zonal direction. Analytical solutions are found for stationary solitary waves but these are shown to be always unstable. The instability manifests itself either as a fission of the structure subsequently emitting two oppositely directed travelling solitary waves or as an implosion in which the structure becomes increasingly more narrow and intense. Which of the two occurs depends sensitively on initial conditions. These solitary waves are stable in head-on collisions only if their joint zonally integrated amplitude is less than a critical value; otherwise, the implosion instability occurs. General initial conditions can give rise to solitary waves which either split, implode, or break down to form a train of nonlinear wave packets. A scenario for the birth and decay of isolated disturbances is given, utilizing the slow parametric transit of the marginal stability curve of the background zonal flow.
Optimized Dispatch of a Residential Solar Energy System

Recent state and provincial mandates for requirements that new generation be partially in the form of renewable energy have led to considerable interest in distributed solar generation. Some percentage of this effort may be in the form of residential photovoltaic solar energy. The electric utilities across North America are considering the effects of these distributed renewables. It is not expected that solar residential generation will have appreciable storage capability. However, it is possible to dispatch some other resources and control certain elements of the load. In this paper, the issues of when to use the dispatchable sources to fully utilize the solar energy available while minimizing the cost to the consumer will be addressed. Optimal dispatch strategy is calculated using the method of linear programming. A tool has been developed to perform a cost analysis of equipment and performance. The concept is that this study is done off-line, and the information gained is used to identify the ratings of the solar source, the energy storage medium, and the required electronic converter. Examples are shown.
Evidence for Cu-O2 intermediates in superoxide oxidations by biomimetic copper(II) complexes.

The mechanism by which [CuII(L)](OTf)2 and [CuIIN3(L)](OTf) (L = TEPA: tris(2-pyridylethyl)amine or TMPA: tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine; OTf = trifluoromethanesulfonate) react with superoxide (O2•-) to form [CuI(L)](OTf) and O2 is described. Evidence for a CuO2 intermediate is presented based on stopped-flow experiments and competitive oxygen (18O) kinetic isotope effects on the bimolecular reactions of 16,16O2•- and 18,16O2•- (16,16k/18,16k). The 16,16k/18,16k fall within a narrow range from 0.9836 ± 0.0043 to 0.9886 ± 0.0078 for reactions of copper(II) complexes with different coordination geometries and redox potentials that span a 0.67 V range. The results are inconsistent with a mechanism that involves either rate-determining O2•- binding or one-step electron transfer. Rather a mechanism involving formation of a CuO2 intermediate prior to the loss of O2 in the rate-determining step is proposed. Calculations of similar inverse isotope effects, using stretching frequencies of CuO2 adducts generated from...
Short-term functional decline of older adults admitted for suspected sepsis

Abstract Introduction We investigated the degree of functional decline and loss of independence among older adults presenting to the emergency department (ED) with serious infection and to estimate 90-day case fatality. Methods Consecutive patients 70 years or older (n = 50) presenting to the ED with potentially serious infection were identified using an automated case-identification algorithm. Fifty age- and sex-matched controls were recruited from a registry of community volunteers. Functional and residential statuses were ascertained at hospital admission, discharge, and 90 days. Details regarding patients' comorbidities, acute illness, and diagnostic evaluation were collected along with 90-day survival. Results Older adults with suspected sepsis had substantial 90-day mortality (32.0%). Baseline functional impairment was more severe among cases than among control subjects, although activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living deficits did not predict outcome. Hospital admission was also not uniformly associated with deterioration in either activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living performance. Patients admitted from home were at no greater risk of functional decline than were those admitted from care facilities. No enrolled case enjoyed an increase in residential independence after discharge; of the 28 who were independent upon admission, 19 survived to 90 days, and 8 of the 19 required visiting assistance or were in a care facility. Conclusions Older adults presenting to the ED with potentially serious infection have significant 90-day mortality. Although functional status does not consistently deteriorate in survivors, there seems to be considerable risk in the short-term for loss of residential independence.
Bacterial Species and Speciation

Bacteria are profoundly different from eukaryotes in their patterns of genetic exchange. Nevertheless, ecological diversity isorganized in the sameway across allof life: individual organisms fall into more or less discrete clusters on the basis of their phenotypic, ecological, and DNA sequence characteristics. Each sequence cluster in the bacterial world appears to correspond to an "ecotype," deened as a population of cells in the same ecological niche, which would all be out-competed by any adaptive mutant coming from the population. Ecotypes, so deened, share many of the dynamic properties attributed to eukaryotic species: genetic diversity within an ecotype is limited by a force of cohesion(inthiscase,periodicselection);differentecotypesarefreetodivergewithoutconstraintfrom one another; and ecotypes are ecologically distinct. Also, ecotypes can be discovered and classieed as DNA sequence clusters, even when we are ignorant of their ecology. Owing to the rarity and promiscuity of bacterial genetic exchange, speciation in the bacterial world is expected to be much lessconstrainedthan in theworldofanimals andplants. (Clonalstructure;ecotype; periodicselection; sexual isolation; species concept.)
Party Non-Systems: A Conceptual Innovation

This article makes a case for expansion of the conceptual framework for the classification of party universe types. In particular, it introduces the concept of ‘party non-systems’, defined as those...
An improved diameter scaling correlation for turbulent flow of drag-reducing polymer solutions

The friction coefficient was measured for developed flow of drag-reducing polymer solutions in tubes of 2, 5, 10, 20 and 52 mm i.d. Our results were processed along with other authors’ data in terms of different parameters in order to investigate the possibility of developing a simple empirical method for the prediction of the pipe diameter effect on friction. We found that the drag-reduction coefficient (DR), if expressed as a function of the fluid bulk velocity (V), becomes independent of the tube diameter in the subcritical region (i.e. without fluid degradation), with the deviations being smaller than about 5% for all the diameters and velocities covered. This correlation proved to be not only better than similar procedures based on friction velocity, but also more convenient and physically more meaningful. It was also found that the logarithmic layer shift in the 3layers velocity profile is also better correlated with the bulk velocity than with the friction velocity. Finally, existing models for drag-reduction involving non-dimensional correlations between the integral flow parameters and the fluid properties were also reevaluated in light of these findings. # 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Mobile Learning and Mobile Social Interaction

Mobile learning environments are human networks that afford learners the opportunity to participate in creative endeavors, social networking, organize and reorganize social contents, learner-created cognitive space, and manage social acts at anytime and anywhere through mobile technologies. Social interaction with mobile technology is very different from Face-to-Face, Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), or Web 2.0 networking technologies. Effective emerging mobile interaction focuses on social-context awareness by integrating location-based technology, which is unique to mobile technology, not easily found in other types of commuting. This chapter utilizes the Model of Mobile Social Interaction to understand effective mobile interaction.
Rodent Surgical Procedures and Tissue Collection

Collection of tissue for neurological investigation requires training and development of skills to assure precision in the sampling of not only the brain tissues but also other organs associated with each experiment. Preparation for sample analysis follows successful collection. A diverse amount of animal models have been successfully used for investigation of new pathways or specific diseases that may someday lead to improvement of future medicine. For that reason, tissue collection is extremely important to be mastered to achieve appropriate data results. In this chapter, we will cover steps to intubate, perfuse, remove, and separate the brain into anatomical sections as well as specific staining of the brain with triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TCC).
Maximum Likelihood Fit to a Two-Variable Dataset

One of the most common tasks in the analysis of scientific data is to establish a relationship between two quantities. Many experiments feature the measurement of a quantity of interest, as function of another control quantity that is varied as the experiment is performed. In this chapter we use the maximum likelihood method to determine whether a certain relationship between the two quantities is consistent with the available measurements, and the best-fit parameters of the relationship. The method has a simple analytic solution for a linear function, but can also be applied to more complex analytic functions.
Poseidon: The US Navy’s Comprehensive Health Management Software for LM2500 MGTs—Part 1

This paper describes the initial features and capabilities of the US Navy’s conceptual condition monitoring software, called Poseidon, for its LM2500 Marine Gas Turbines (MGTs). Poseidon is acomprehensive suite of software modules designed to provide state-of-the-art condition monitoring, diagnostics, prognostics and maintenance reasoning for the fleet of LM2500 MGTs retrofitted with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). Poseidon will be capable of performance and vibration diagnostics, sensor fault detection, event archiving, and maintenance reasoning in addition to specific modules for tracking Planned Maintenance System (PMS). This paper will begin with an overview of the Poseidon program and then transition to a technical discussion on the real-time engine model and performance diagnostics, sensor validation methodology, storage and trending, and vibration diagnostics. Finally, the graphical user interface and off-line analysis capabilities of Poseidon will be introduced.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
The thermal death point of the spores of bacillus botulinus in canned foods

death point is markedly influenced by the hydrogen-ion concentration. It was also shown that the destruction of the spore is a gradual process, not an instantaneous killing; that is, the spores are progressively injured and finally destroyed. It was demonstrated that spores of different strains vary considerably in their heat resistance; that the resistance is influenced by the age of the spores; that young spores about 1 month old have the highest thermal resistance; that increasing the concentration of sodium chloride decreases the resistance; and that the larger the number of spores the higher the temperature and longer the period of exposure required to kill them. The relative importance of these factors was also shown. On the basis of these facts I proceeded to a study of the heat resistance of the spores of B. botulinus in commercially canned foods. Thirty-six varieties of standard brands of foods on the American market were tested.
Subsurface Parameter Estimation In Full Wavefield Inversion And Reverse Time Migration

We develop a method for directly estimating subsurface medium parameter updates from the gradient equations in full wavefield inversion. This is achieved by accounting for the effects of source and receiver illuminations, background medium properties, and seismic resolution volume in the gradient equations. Using this method, we directly compute the subsurface seismic parameters needed to minimize the difference between the measured and modeled seismic field. It is shown that this method, when used to precondition the gradients in iterative inversion processes, yields faster convergence than when gradients are used without preconditioning. It is also shown that this method can be used for inversion of amplitudes in reverse time migration into the difference bulk modulus of subsurface.
An Examination of Parental Self-Efficacy Among Mothers and Fathers

Sevigny and Loutzenhiser, in their 2010 examination of parental self-efficacy (PSE) in fathers, did not identify data supporting the importance of self-efficacy beliefs in the paternal parenting role. However, a task-specific measure of PSE was used, and because the tasks mothers and fathers typically perform differ, task-specific measures may not be applicable to both mothers and fathers. The present study addressed this limitation by using a domain PSE measure (where specific tasks are not identified) in a sample of 49 mothers and 33 fathers of 3- to 5-year-old children. Parents also completed measures of constructs purported to be associated with PSE including: general self-efficacy (GSE), parenting behavior, affect, and child behavior problems. Results indicated that PSE was significantly and positively associated with, and predicted by, GSE for both mothers and fathers, suggesting one’s general sense of competence is important for both maternal and paternal PSE beliefs. Findings also indicated that maternal PSE was predicted by hostile or coercive parenting behaviors and child behavior problems, whereas supportive or engaged parenting behaviors emerged as the only other variable to predict paternal PSE. Results also suggested that previously used measurement strategies of paternal self-efficacy may have identified tasks more applicable to mothers than fathers.