cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Annual temperature cycle of the tropical tropopause: A simple model study

[1] A simple radiative-convective model is used to simulate the annual temperature cycle near the tropical tropopause and lower stratosphere (TTL) region. Seasonally varying residual vertical velocity and ozone variation are imposed, the latter derived from 7 a (1998–2004) of Southern Hemisphere additional ozonesonde (SHADOZ) data. Convection is treated only by eliminating lapse rates greater than 6.5 K/km. An upwelling rate proportional to the extratropical wave driving (midlatitude Eliassen-Palm (EP) flux) is sufficient to explain in detail the annual cycles of TTL temperature above 80 hPa and of tropopause pressure, each maximizing in northern summer and minimizing in northern winter. However, temperatures below 80 hPa lag those predicted, indicating either a delay in upwelling or the influence of tropospheric convection. The annual cycle of ozone in the TTL plays an important role in modulating that of temperature: Without ozone variations, the simulated temperature amplitude at 70 hPa falls from ∼8 K to 5 K, and the maximum temperature occurs in July, 1 month earlier than observed. When the seasonal cycle of ozone is included in the calculation, the amplitude and phase of the temperature cycle come into close agreement with observations. These results support the high-latitude wave-driving hypothesis for explaining tropical upwelling but indicate complicating factors close to the tropopause and an important role for ozone in modulating temperature changes.
Analytical applications of resonance ionization mass spectrometry (RIMS)

Abstract A perspective on the role of resonance ionization mass spectrometry (RIMS) in the field of analytical chemistry is presented. RIMS provides new, powerful, and complementary capabilities relative to traditional methods of inorganic mass spectrometry. Much of the initial work in RIMS has been to illustrate these capabilities and define the potential of RIMS in the generalized field of chemical analysis. Three areas of application are reviewed here: (1) noble gas measurements; (2) materials analysis using isotope dilution (IDMS); and, (3) solids analysis using direct sampling. The role of RIMS is discussed relative to the more traditional mass spectrometric methods of analysis in these areas. The applications are meant to illustrate the present state-of-the-art as well as point to the future state-of-the-art of RIMS in chemical analysis.
Pressure sensors merge micromachining and microelectronics

Abstract Sensing system requirements vary considerably from system to system and depend heavily upon the market segment and application: automotive versus industrial, manifold absolute pressure versus blood pressure. Both of these particular examples utilize micromachined silicon and have been the focus of several manufacturers' efforts for the past decade. The experience obtained from supplying these products in volume and working with customers to determine future sensing requirements is leading to new types of sensors and increased integration. This paper will present some of the problems that confront the development and manufacture of more complex silicon structures and integrated control circuits.
Structural insight into antibiotic fosfomycin biosynthesis by a mononuclear iron enzyme.

The biosynthetic pathway of the clinically important antibiotic fosfomycin uses enzymes that catalyse reactions without precedent in biology. Among these is hydroxypropylphosphonic acid epoxidase, which represents a new subfamily of non-haem mononuclear iron enzymes. Here we present six X-ray structures of this enzyme: the apoenzyme at 2.0 A resolution; a native Fe(ii)-bound form at 2.4 A resolution; a tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane–Co(ii)-enzyme complex structure at 1.8 A resolution; a substrate–Co(ii)-enzyme complex structure at 2.5 A resolution; and two substrate–Fe(ii)-enzyme complexes at 2.1 and 2.3 A resolution. These structural data lead us to suggest how this enzyme is able to recognize and respond to its substrate with a conformational change that protects the radical-based intermediates formed during catalysis. Comparisons with other family members suggest why substrate binding is able to prime iron for dioxygen binding in the absence of α-ketoglutarate (a co-substrate required by many mononuclear iron enzymes), and how the unique epoxidation reaction of hydroxypropylphosphonic acid epoxidase may occur. Methicillin- and vancomycin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus represent enormous public health problems. Few antibiotics can be used against these drug-resistant strains. One that can is fosfomycin, a natural product whose biosynthesis involves enzyme reactions that seem to be unique in nature. The novelty lies in the radical-mediated epoxidation catalysed by HppE, the final enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway. The X-ray crystal structure of this iron-containing enzyme — in several intermediate states — has now been determined, revealing the conformational changes that accompany catalysis. This work may enable researchers to re-engineer mononuclear iron scaffolds, enabling them to generate novel antibiotics.
PET scans as a predictive marker of survival in advanced colorectal cancer.

Abstract Background The clinical utility of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) scan in predicting the outcome of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has not been well studied. We hypothesized that standardized uptake value (SUV) in FDG-PET scans after treatment predicts outcomes among patients with mCRC. Patients and Methods We retrospectively reviewed mCRC patients who had FDG-PET scans before their treatment and measured their SUV on follow-up imaging at the Karmanos Cancer Institute. Primary end points of time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) were compared in 2 groups: follow-up (posttreatment) SUV of 0 versus > 0. Results The study population consisted of 44 patients (median age of 58.1 years). Forty (91%) of the patients were treated first-line, 34 (77%) received an oxaliplatin-based regimen, and 7 (16%) received an irinotecan-based regimen. Thirty-four (77%) patients received concurrent bevacizumab. Median pretreatment SUV was 9.2 (range, 1.7-46.3), and median posttreatment SUV (in n = 41) was 4.0 (range, 0-14). The median percent change in SUV was −68.5% (range, −9.2% to −100%). The median time interval between scans was 2.6 months. There was no statistically significant difference noted between metabolic responders and nonresponders with regard to TTP and OS. However, patients with a posttreatment SUV of 0 had significantly longer OS than those with posttreatment SUV of > 0 (median, 42 vs. 25.2 months, respectively), and slightly longer TTP (median, 8.2 vs. 6.9 months, respectively). Conclusion Systemic therapy significantly decreased SUV on follow-up PET scans in advanced colorectal cancer patients. Absence of FDG uptake on follow-up PET scans was associated with markedly longer OS and slightly longer TTP.
FISHER: a Turbo Pascal unit for optimal partitions

Abstract An algorithm for calculating optimal partitions of one-dimensional data sets was described by Fisher in 1958, and a few FORTRAN implementations of the algorithm have been released. A Turbo Pascal implementation of the Fisher algorithm is presented which is capable of partitioning a data set of 1000 objects into 20 groups in about 5 min on a microcomputer. An efficient method of calculating running absolute deviations from medians, and a test for determining the uniqueness of the solution are provided.
A Question of Place: Situating Old Shloime in Isaac Babel's Oeuvre

Xsaac Babel had a penchant for "first things"; the stories First Love, My First Goose, and My First Fee attest to this. His first published piece, Old Shloime (1913), has received little critical attention, however, and, as some would argue, rightly so, since it was not a spectacular debut. This article will argue the story's merit and intrinsic interest as Babel's first publication. It appeared on February 9 in the Kiev-based liberal journal Ogni as part of a regular rubric entitled "Jewish Life" ("Evreiskaia zhizn'"). The series was devoted to the "Jewish Question" in general and reflects a sympathetic, "insider's" perspective.1 Babel was studying in Kiev at the time, having been forced to go there in 1911 as a result of the restrictions set on Jews wishing to study at the university of Odessa, his beloved hometown.2
Cooperativity among Molecules at Interfaces in Relation to Various Technological Processes: Effect of Chain Length on the pKa of Fatty Acid Salt Solutions†

The orientation of surface-active molecules at interfaces is extremely important in determining the dynamic and equilibrium properties of such systems. Films of fatty acid salts were studied at various pH values of the solutions. It was found that there exists a pH where minimum evaporation of water, maximum foamability, maximum foam stability, minimum contact angle on PMMA surface, maximum single-bubble stability, and maximum surface viscosity are observed. It was also found that this optimum pH value is near the pKa of the fatty acid salts. The experimental results are explained in terms of area per molecule, intermolecular spacing, and cooperativity among soap molecules at the interface. It was further shown that the chain length of the soap molecules can modulate the area per molecule, and hence the intermolecular distance in the film, and thereby influence the ionization behavior of the fatty acid carboxyl group. The pKa increases from 6.5 to about 9.0 as the chain length of the fatty acid salt incre...
Medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding: factors predicting satisfaction.

Abstract Objective: This study was undertaken to identify the determinants of patient satisfaction with a cyclic regimen of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for abnormal uterine bleeding. Study Design: A prospective cohort study of 413 premenopausal women were treated for 3 to 5 months with oral MPA 10 to 20 mg per day for 10 to 14 days per month. We assessed satisfaction with and willingness to continue MPA. Baseline characteristics hypothesized to predict treatment satisfaction were entered into logistic regression analysis. Results: Sixty-five percent of subjects (271) completed at least 3 months of MPA, 79% (215) filled out a satisfaction survey, and 57% (123) expressed satisfaction with MPA. Satisfaction was predicted by age 35 years or older (odds ratio [OR] 2.67, CI 1.07-6.7), desire for uterine conservation (OR 1.36, CI 1.11-1.66), perceived importance of stopping bleeding (OR 0.69, CI 0.54-0.87), and tubal sterilization (OR 0.52, CI 0.28-0.96). Neither bleeding history nor parity predicted MPA satisfaction. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of considering patient age, fertility status, attitudes about uterine conservation, and desire for definitive resolution of bleeding when deciding whether to use MPA versus other treatments for abnormal uterine bleeding. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:37-42.)
The diagnostic accuracy and construct validity of the structured photographic expressive language test--preschool: second edition.

Purpose In order to support evidence-based practice, this study served to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy, convergent validity, and divergent validity of the Structured Photographic Expressive Lan...
Encountered data, statistical ecology, environmental statistics, and weighted distribution methods

We have begun to experience in data gathering and analysis in modern ecological and environmental work a space age/stone age syndrome. Also we are challenged to break into the cycle of no information, new information, and non-information while dealing with soft data, hard looks, and prudent decision-making involving errors of the third and the fourth kind in addition to those of the first and the second type. Weighted distribution methods arise in the context of data gathering, modeling, inference, and computing, and help provide a unified approach in dealing with encountered data.
Social Networks and the Affective Impact of Political Disagreement

Although few studies have explored the link between emotion and political talk, here I argue that political disagreement depolarizes emotional reactions via information exchanged in social networks. Analyzing data from the ANES 2008–2009 Panel Study, several conclusions are drawn. First, disagreement increases negative emotions and decreases positive emotions toward the in-party candidate, and also increases positive emotions and decreases negative emotions toward the out-party candidate. In other words, disagreement depolarizes emotions toward political candidates. Second, the affective impact of disagreement does not vary with political knowledge. Finally, positive emotions toward the out-party candidate and negative emotions toward the in-party candidate reduce political interest, candidate issue placement accuracy, and political participation. Overall, this study develops important theoretical connections between affect and political talk that have implications for the value of political disagreement.
Symmetric Decreasing Rearrangement Can Be Discontinuous

Suppose f(xl,x2) ≥ 0 is a continuously differentiable function supported in the unit disk in the plane. Its symmetric decreasing rearrangement is the rotationally invariant function f*(xl,x2) whose level sets are circles enclosing the same area as the level sets of f. Such rearrangement preserves Lp norms but decreases convex gradient integrals, e.g. ||∇||*||p ≤ ||∇/||p (1 ≤ p 0 (j = 1,2,3,…) is a sequence of infinitely differentiable functions also supported in the unit disk which converge uniformly together with first derivatives to f. The symmetzed functions also converge uniformly. The real question is about convergence of the derivatives of the symmetrized functions. We announce that the derivatives of the symmetrized functions need not converge strongly, e.g. it can happen that ||∇fj*—∇f*||p →* 0 for every p. We further characterize exactly those f’s for which convergence is assured and for which it can fail
Quantum gravitational Kasner transitions in Bianchi-I spacetime

Because of nonperturbative quantum gravitational effects, the classical big bang singularity is replaced by a quantum big bounce of the mean scale factor in loop quantization of Bianchi-I spacetime. An important issue is to understand the various differences in the physical properties of the spacetime across the bounce. We investigate this issue in the context of various geometrical structures, identified by the Kasner exponents of the metric, which arise on approach to the singularity in the classical theory. Using an effective spacetime description of the Bianchi-I model in loop quantum cosmology with dust, radiation and stiff matter, we find that as in the classical theory, geometrical structures such as a cigar or a pancake form, but they are finite and nonsingular. Depending on the initial conditions of the matter and anisotropies, different geometric structures are possible in the pre- and post-bounce phases in physical evolution. Thus, quantum gravitational effects can cause a Kasner transition in Bianchi-I spacetime, which is not possible at the classical level. Interestingly, we find that not all transitions are allowed at the level of effective dynamics in loop quantum cosmology. We find the selection rules and underlying conditions for all allowed and forbidden transitions. The selection rules suggest that for a given set of initial conditions on anisotropies, the occurrence of Kasner transitions follows a distinct pattern, and certain transitions are more favored than others.
Exercise testing and hemodynamic performance in healthy elderly persons

To determine the effect of age on cardiovascular performance, 39 healthy elderly men and women, 70 to 83 years old, underwent treadmill thallium-201 exercise perfusion imaging and radionuclide equilibrium angiography at rest and during supine bicycle exercise. Five volunteers who had a positive exercise thallium test response were excluded from the study. Radionuclide left ventricular ejection fraction, regional wall abnormalities, relative cardiac output, stroke volume, end-diastolic volume and end-systolic volume were measured. Seventy-four percent of the subjects maintained or increased their ejection fraction with exercise. With peak exercise, mean end-diastolic volume did not change, end-systolic volume decreased and cardiac output and stroke volume increased. Moreover, in 35% of the subjects, minor regional wall motion abnormalities developed during exercise. There was no significant difference in the response of men and women with regard to these variables. However, more women than men had difficulty performing bicycle ergometry because they had never bicycled before. Subjects who walked daily performed the exercise tests with less anxiety and with a smaller increase in heart rate and systolic blood pressure.
Transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale in patients with paradoxical embolism: Intermediate‐term risk of recurrent neurological events

Closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been proposed as an alternative to anticoagulation in patients with presumed paradoxical emboli. We report our preliminary intermediate results of patients who underwent transcatheter PFO closure for paradoxical embolism using DAS-Angel Wings occluder or Amplatzer devices. Eighteen patients (8 male/10 female) underwent catheter closure of their PFOs at a median age of 42 years. The complete closure rate was 67% immediately after the procedure and 100% at a mean follow-up interval of 2.2 ± 1.8 years. The mean fluoroscopy time and procedure time in the Amplatzer group were 8.5 ± 3.2 min and 65 ± 21 min, respectively, which were significantly shorter than those of DAS-Angel Wings group (18.9 ± 4.7 min and 137 ± 28 min, respectively). There were no recurrent embolic neurological events following device placement in this subset of patients. No complications were encountered either during or after the closure procedure. In conclusion, transcatheter closure of PFO seems to be an effective alternative therapy in the prevention of presumed paradoxical emboli. Further study is needed to identify patients most likely to benefit from this intervention. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2002;55:189–194. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Perturbed flow structure in an annular seal due to synchronous whirl

This paper provides a thorough examination of the flow field resulting from synchronous whirl of an eccentric rotor in an annular seal under typical operating conditions. A new finite-element-based perturbation model is employed in the analysis, whereby perturbations in the flow thermophysical properties are attributed to virtual distortions in the rotor-to-housing finite element assembly. The numerical results are compared to a recent set of experimental data for a hydraulic seal with typical geometrical configurations and a synchronously whirling rotor. Despite the common perception that perturbation analyses are categorically confined to small rotor eccentricities, good agreement between the computed flow field and the experimental data is obtained for an eccentricity/clearance ratio of 50 percent
Microbiological determination of drug partitioning III: Partition coefficient profiles of several antimicrobial agents

Drug partitioning of four antimicrobial agents in gelatin-acacia complex coacervate systems was studied. Partial inhibition in the growth of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa permitted the determination of partition coefficients for the antimicrobial agents in coacervates over a concentration range of 0.12-2.4 mg./ml. The usefulness of this method is apparent from a comparison of partition coefficients obtained with the same drugs using traditional chemical analysis. The dependence of partition coefficient on drug concentration in the system demonstrates the suitability of the methods for drug binding studies using coacervates as biological models.
Apoptosis in Cellular Compartments of Rat Spinal Cord After Severe Contusion Injury

Following a controlled, severe contusion lesion to the lower thoracic spinal cord in adult rats, we found that apoptosis occurred in cells located in both gray and white matter. This suggested that both nonneuronal cells, including astrocytes, oligodendroglia and microglia, as well as neurons, might participate in programmed cell death (PCD) following spinal cord injury (SCI). Determination of which cell populations participate, and the kinetics and extent of their involvement might reveal new paradigms for approaches to therapy. Consequently, we assessed the functional deficit, comparing a comprehensive locomotor rating scale (LRS) with the inclined plane test at various times after injury. Using standard histology, along with cell-specific markers, we assessed PCD in different spinal cord segments using several parameters of apoptosis. Our results indicate that hind limb motor function was lost at day 1, and then only gradually and ineffectively (about 10-15%) recovered over the next month. Evidence for increased cell number was present for astrocytes and microglia beginning at day 1 after injury. Over the postinjury time period, apoptotic cells appeared (from day 1 to 14), and peaked (in terms of apoptotic index) on day 3. About one-third were microglia, whereas neurons, both large and small, also underwent apoptosis, again peaking at day 3. However, neurons continued to die and were not replaced by proliferation, so that at day 7, three times as many neurons (as a percentage) underwent PCD compared with the glial compartment. Oligodendrocytes also underwent apoptosis, with a biphasic curve, both at days 3 and 14 following injury. Thus, in addition to immediate, passive necrosis, delayed and apoptotic PCD also occurred in all cell populations in severely injured spinal cord.
Extraterrestrial coastal geomorphology

Abstract Earth is the only planet in the solar system where large amounts of liquid water have been stable at the surface throughout geologic time. This unique trait has resulted in the production of characteristic landforms and massive accumulations of aqueous sediments, as well as enabled the evolution of advanced and diverse forms of life. But while Earth is the only planet with large bodies of water on its surface today, Venus and Mars may have once had lakes or oceans as well. More exotic fluids may be stable in the outer solar system. Prior to the Voyager flybys of the outer planets during the 1970s and 1980s, the moon of Neptune, Triton, was thought to be much larger than the Voyager cameras revealed it to be, and predictions that liquid nitrogen lakes or oceans might be found were made. The moon of Saturn, Titan, however, was found to have a massive atmosphere, so the possibility remains that it may have, or may once have had, lakes or oceans of liquid hydrocarbons. The recent, high-resolution synthetic aperture radar imaging of Venus has failed to reveal any evidence of any putative clement period, but the results for Mars are much more intriguing. Herein, we briefly review work on this subject by a number of investigators, and discuss problems of identifying and recognizing martian landforms as lacustrine or marine. In addition, we present additional examples of possible martian coastal landforms. The former presence of lakes or oceans on Mars has profound implications with regard to the climate history of that planet.
A new approach for image quality assessment: FSM (Frequency Similarity Method)

In this paper, we introduce a new approach for image quality assessment. The proposed method estimates similarity of frequency between a distorted image and a reference image using 8×8 block based DCT. Different from existing method such as SSIM (Structural Similarity Index Method) and PSNR, it does not use any data such as intensity, mean, variance, and covariance on the pixel domain. Instead, it simply uses only frequency components. As an experimental result, our new method achieves 90 percent performance to SSIM. However, the computational complexity of our proposed metric is simpler than SSIM. Since it uses a fixed number of coefficients for matrix multiplication, it can be easily implemented on hardware. Besides, our metric can use the DCT block which is already built in video system. If the original DCT block in video system is used for FSM, additional hardware resource is not needed to measure image quality.
Attrition/Retention of Special Education Teachers: Critique of Current Research and Recommendations for Retention Efforts

Teacher attrition will be the foremost issue confronting professionals in special education during the next decade. Several studies indicate that special educators are at greater risk to leave teac...
Phase change phenomena during high power laser-materials interaction

Abstract This work investigates phase change phenomena due to high power pulsed laser irradiation. During high power laser heating, the intense radiation flux from the laser is transformed to the target material and raises the temperature of the target surface rapidly. When the laser fluence is high enough, melting and superheating of liquid are possible. At even higher laser fluences, the superheated liquid undergoes a phase explosion that turns the liquid into a mixture of liquid and vapor. In this paper, we describe theoretical, numerical and experimental studies of the materials’ response under nanosecond pulsed excimer laser irradiation. Experiments are performed in a laser fluence range between 2.5 and 10 J/cm 2 (between 100 and 400 MW/cm 2 ) on nickel specimens. The velocity of the laser-evaporated vapor, absorption of the laser energy by the laser-evaporated vapor, the threshold laser fluence for phase explosion, and the pressure and temperature at the target surface are determined. Results of these studies reveal phase change mechanisms during high power laser interaction with metal.
Enhancing residents' neonatal resuscitation competency through unannounced simulation-based training.

Background: Almost half of pediatric third-year residents surveyed in 2000 had never led a resuscitation event. With increasing restrictions on residency work hours and a decline in patient volume in some hospitals, there is potential for fewer opportunities. Purpose: Our primary purpose was to test the hypothesis that an unannounced mock resuscitation in a high-fidelity in-situ simulation training program would improve both residents’ self-confidence and observed performance of adopted best practices in neonatal resuscitation. Methods: Each pediatric and medicine–pediatric resident in one pediatric residency program responded to an unannounced scenario that required resuscitation of the high fidelity infant simulator. Structured debriefing followed in the same setting, and a second cycle of scenario response and debriefing occurred before ending the 1-hour training experience. Measures included pre- and post-program confidence questionnaires and trained observer assessments of live and videotaped performances. Results: Statistically significant pre–post gains for self-confidence were observed for 8 of the 14 NRP critical behaviors (p=0.00–0.03) reflecting knowledge, technical, and non-technical (teamwork) skills. The pre–post gain in overall confidence score was statistically significant (p=0.00). With a maximum possible assessment score of 41, the average pre–post gain was 8.28 and statistically significant (p<0.001). Results of the video-based assessments revealed statistically significant performance gains (p<0.0001). Correlation between live and video-based assessments were strong for pre–post training scenario performances (pre: r=0.64, p<0.0001; post: r=0.75, p<0.0001). Conclusions: Results revealed high receptivity to in-situ, simulation-based training and significant positive gains in confidence and observed competency-related abilities. Results support the potential for other applications in residency and continuing education. Keywords: simulation-based training; neonatal resuscitation; competency; pediatric residents (Published: 21 March 2013) Citation: Med Educ Online 2013, 18 : 18726 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v18i0.18726
A generalization of Vizing's theorem on domination

Abstract Vizing (1965) established an upper bound on the size of a graph with a given domination number. We generalize Vizing's bound so that it takes into consideration the graph's maximum degree. As an application, we shorten the proof of Sanchis' (1991) upper bound on the size of graphs with domination number at least three and no isolated vertices.
Development of Papaya breeding lines with transgenic resistance to Papaya ringspot virus

ABSTRACT Papaya (Carica papaya) was transformed via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation with four constructs containing either the unmodified or modified coat protein (CP) gene of Florida isolate H1K of Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV). The CP genes were in the sense orientation (S-CP), antisense orientation (AS-CP), sense orientation with a frame-shift mutation (FS-CP), or sense orientation mutated with three-in-frame stop codons (SC-CP). In all, 256 putative transgenic lines with the CP constructs were inoculated mechanically with PRSV H1K. None of the lines was immune to PRSV; however, highly resistant lines were found in each CP transgene group. For breeding purposes, 21 PRSV-resistant lines representing the four transgene constructs were selected and crossed with six papaya genotypes. The lines from the FS-CP and SC-CP transgene groups were highly fertile, but those from the S-CP and AS-CP transgene groups were practically infertile. Plants derived from 54 crosses and representing 17 transgenic lines w...
Adhesive substrates modulate the activation and stimulatory capacity of non-obese diabetic mouse-derived dendritic cells

It is known that adsorbed adhesive proteins on implanted biomaterials modulate inflammatory responses; however, modulation of dendritic cell (DC) responses upon interaction with adhesive proteins has only begun to be characterized. DCs are specialized antigen-presenting cells that modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses. Previously we have shown that the activation and stimulatory capacity of DCs derived from C57BL6/j mice is differentially modulated by adhesive substrates. Here we extend our investigation of adhesive substrate modulation of DC responses to consider the case where the DCs had maturational defects associated with diabetes. Understanding the adhesive responses of DCs in diabetics is potentially important for immunotherapy and tissue engineering applications. In this work we use the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse, an established animal model for type 1 diabetes, to generate DCs (NOD-DCs). We demonstrate that NOD-DCs cultured on different adhesive substrates (collagen, fibrinogen, fibronectin, laminin, vitronectin, albumin and serum) respond with substrate-dependent modulation of the surface expression of the stimulatory molecule MHC-II and the co-stimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 and production of the cytokines IL-12p40 and IL-10. Furthermore, the capacity of NOD-DCs to stimulate CD4(+) T-cell proliferation and cytokine production (IL-4 and IFN-γ) showed substrate-dependent modulation. Specifically, NOD-DCs cultured on vitronectin induced the highest IL-12p40 production, whereas collagen induced the highest IL-10 production. Dendritic cells cultured on collagen, fibrinogen and serum-coated substrates stimulated the highest CD4(+) T-cell proliferation. It was further determined that DCs cultured on vitronectin induced the highest percent population of IL-4-producing T-cells and DCs cultured on a fibronectin-coated substrate induced the highest expression of IFN-γ in T-cells. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed high correlations between T-cell proliferation and DC expression level of CD80 and T-cell production of IL-4 and DC production of IL-10. This demonstration of substrate-based control of NOD-DC activatory and stimulatory capacity, distinct from non-diabetic B6-DC responses, establishes the field of adhesive modulation of immune cell responses and informs the rational design of biomaterials for patients with type 1 diabetes.
The case for single-patient studies

Abstract It is argued that only single-patient studies allow valid inferences about normal cognitive processes from the analysis of acquired cognitive disorders. The arguments in favour of this position support the further claim that clinical classifications such as agrammatism and deep dyslexia are theoretically useless.
Does an upper gastrointestinal study change operative management for gastroesophageal reflux

Abstract Background In patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) contrast study is often the initial study performed for those patients being considered for fundoplication. The accuracy of UGI for diagnosing reflux is known to be poor, but there are no data on how often this study influences management. Therefore, we reviewed our experience in patients undergoing fundoplication to quantify the impact of the UGI. Methods A retrospective analysis of our most recent 7-year experience with patients undergoing fundoplication was performed. Results of the diagnostic tests and operative course were recorded. Results From January 2000 to June 2007, 843 patients underwent fundoplication. An UGI study was obtained in 656 patients. A pH study was also performed in 379 of these patients who had an UGI. The sensitivity of the UGI for reflux compared with pH study was 30.8%. An abnormality besides gastroesophageal reflux disease or hiatal hernia that impacted the operative plan was found on the UGI in 30 patients (4.5%). The most common anomaly was malrotation, which was found in 26 patients (4.0%). Malrotation was confirmed in 16 patients and ruled out in 6 patients during fundoplication, and 4 patients had undergone a previous Ladd procedure. Esophageal dilation was performed in 5 patients with the fundoplication for a stricture found on the UGI. Pyloroplasty was performed with the fundoplication in 2 patients, and 1 patient underwent exploration of the duodenum for possible obstruction. Conclusions The UGI study is a poor study for accurately delineating which patients have pathologic reflux. However, it reveals a finding that may influence management in approximately 4% of cases.
Controlled Growth of Ni Particles on Si(100)1a

Ni particles were grown on Si(100) by MOCVD from Ni(η5-C5H4Me)2 in the presence of H2. There is an induction period which is a function of the precursor flux. The Ni particle size is a function of the deposition time and precursor flux. For example, with precursor held at 47 °C, the particle size increases from 140 nm (5 min) to 180 nm (10 min) to 260 nm (20 min) as the deposition time is increased. TiCl4 surface treatment (a) and gas-phase addition of H2O (b) were explored further to influence growth. Both methods increase the growth rate as measured by the Ni(111) XRD peak intensity. (a) The TiCl4 reacts with surface OH groups to form TiO2 islands which act as nucleation sites for Ni growth. A 5 min exposure to TiCl4 results in large (1 mm) amorphous and oriented crystalline TiO2 islands. The Ni crystals first saturate the TiO2 islands and then break off to form individual islands. (b) The gas-phase addition of H2O into the carrier gas stream results in initial formation of large particles which later b...
Changing role of induction therapy in solid organ transplantation

I nduction therapy with agents that subdue the immediate alloimmune T-cell response of transplant recipients is used to minimize the risk of early rejection episodes, to delay or reduce the use of calcineurin inhibitors, and to eliminate one or more maintenance agents without increasing the risk of rejection. The use of induction therapy has increased over the past few years for various types of solid organ transplantations and is more prevalent for organs commonly associated with increased early rejection rates (Fig 1). Important changes have also occurred in the type of agents used for induction therapies (Fig 2). Among kidney transplant recipients, the use of T-cell depleting agents such as ATGAM (lymphocyte immune globulin; Pharmacia & Upjohn, Kalamazoo, MI), OKT3 (muromonab-CD3), and Thymoglobulin (rabbit antithymocyte globulin; SangStat Medical Corporation, Fremont, CA) and interleukin 2 receptor antagonist (IL-2RA) agents such as Simulect (basiliximab; Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland) and Zenapax (daclizumab; Hoffmann-La Roche Inc, Nutley, NJ) has increased dramatically (Fig 3). Data from Northwestern University show a disparity in relative cost for the various induction therapies (Table 1). T-cell–depleting agents typically are more expensive than IL-2RA agents. Costs for lymphocytedepletion agents range from at least $6000 to sometimes more than $9000 a course, except for alemtuzumab (CAMPATH 1H; ILEXTM Oncology, Inc [ILEX], San Antonio, TX), which is more moderately priced and costs between $1300 and $2600 per course. Data from Northwestern University suggest that the relative incidence of rejection appears to be affected by the choice of induction therapy and the maintenance therapy used. Among patients who received IL-2RA agents and were on a steroidfree maintenance regimen, approximately 15%
Introduction to the Differential Geometry of Quantum Groups

An introduction to the noncommutative differential calculus on quantum groups. The invariant group average is also discussed.
Oligomerization and transport of the envelope protein of Moloney murine leukemia virus-TB and of tsl, a neurovirulent temperature-sensitive mutant of MoMuLV-TB

Abstract Ts 1, a temperature-sensitive mutant of Moloney murine leukemia virus-TB (MoMuLV-TB), causes a progressive hindlimb paralytic disease in susceptible strains of mice. Previously, it has been shown that a single amino acid substitution, Val-25→Ile in gPr80 env , is responsible for the temperature sensitivity, inefficient transport, and processing of gPr80 env at the restrictive temperature and the neurovirulence of ts 1. Since the neurovirulence of ts 1 is associated with inefficient transport and processing of gPr80 env and since in other systems involving viral envelope proteins it has been shown that correct folding and oligomerization of envelope monomers are required for efficient transport, we have investigated the ability of gPr80 env derived from either wild-type MoMuLV-TB or ts 1 to associate into oligomeric complexes. In these experiments, we establish that at both the restrictive and the nonrestrictive temperatures gPr80 env molecules derived from MoMuLV-TB associate to form oligomeric complexes and these oligomers are most likely trimers. gPr80 env molecules derived from tsl also oligomerize at both temperatures; however, at the restrictive temperature, most of the molecules within the trimeric complexes remain as gPr80 env and are not processed to gp70 and Prpl 5E. These results indicate that lack of oligomerization of gPr80 env is not responsible for the transport defect of ts 1. Therefore, by interacting specifically with critical sites within target cells, oligomers of mutant gPr80 env rather than “tangles” of monomeric viral envelope proteins may be involved in the neurodegenerative disorder produced by ts1 .
An Art Therapy Group for Children Traumatized by Parental Violence and Separation

This article describes the treatment of five traumatized children (aged 4–8 years) using adjunctive group art therapy, and reviews the theoretical basis for such a treatment strategy. All the child...
PRESS PERTURBATIONS AND THE PREDICTABILITY OFECOLOGICAL INTERACTIONS IN A FOOD WEB

Press perturbations, in which one or more species densities are experimen- tally altered and held at higher or lower levels, are common field approaches used to understand community dynamics. The outcomes of such experiments are often difficult to anticipate solely on the basis of intuition. This is because the effects of a perturbation may pass through a complex network of direct and indirect pathways in a food web, and the outcome may be highly sensitive to the strength of interactions among species. One solution to understanding outcomes of press experiments is to quantify first the community matrix, the matrix of measured direct interactions between all species in a food web, and then obtain the inverse of this matrix. The inverse of the community matrix predicts the effect of all species presses on all other species. I evaluated the utility of the inverse community matrix in predicting the outcomes of press experiments in an old-field food web. I used data from field and laboratory experiments to quantify the interaction strengths between grasshoppers, four old-field plants, and nitrogen supply. These values were used to param- eterize the community matrix and obtain its inverse in a Monte Carlo simulation. The simulation was used to predict the mean and standard error in the outcome of a simultaneous nitrogen and herbivore press on food-web structure and dynamics. The predictions were compared with data from an enclosure experiment in the field in which I manipulated nitrogen supply and herbivore abundance. There was a high degree of uncertainty predicted and observed in the study system. Despite this, I show that the degree and the sources of uncertainty were predictable for each species. This suggests that the inverse community matrix offers a useful theoretical benchmark for understanding the outcome of field press experiments.
Cultural construction of illness, festival and music in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia remains a rich region for students and scholars interested in understanding the place of culture within a variety of human activities. Three recent studies under review, Acts of integration , Bridges to the ancestors and Listening to an earlier Java , particularly demonstrate the ways in which culture plays a pertinent role in the health, performance and music of contemporary Southeast Asians. Although Acts of integration focuses on mental images, Bridges to the ancestors on a festival, and Listening to an earlier Java on musical sound, the studies shared the recognition of the interplay between two opposite yet interactive forces: sacred and secular; inner and outer; order and chaos; male and female. They argue that mental normality, aesthetics and music represent, shape and are shaped by culture characterised by such dichotomous categories. Amidst other studies which try to deconstruct culture as more fluid and hybrid, however, these works serve as a reminder of the place of culture as an underlying persistent force in shaping the views and lives of many Southeast Asian peoples.
The Harmonic neutron Hypothesis: Derivation of planck Time and the newtonian constant of Gravity from the subatomic properties of a neutron and Hydrogen

Planck time (t P ) is derived from subatomic physical constants: frequency equivalents of the neutron, the electron, the Bohr radius, and the ionization energy of hydrogen. t P squared represents a proportionality constant where the product with the frequency equivalents of two masses and the frequency equivalent distance equals the gravitational energy in Hz. This method is based on the harmonic neutron hypothesis explained herein: the fundamental constants represent a unified exponential consecutive integer (forces) or integer quantum fraction (1 ± 1/n) (particles, bosons, distances) system where the annihilation frequency of the neutron (v n s) is the base. All of the fundamental constants are associated with simple linear relationships of their components when plotted on a ln ln plane using the slopes and intercepts of two ln ln plotted lines associated with hydrogen, weak kinetic, wk, and electromagnetic, em. The degenerate, approximate value of t P 2 can be derived utilizing the quantum fraction values for the proton, 1, gravitational binding energy of electron, −1, the electron, 6/7, and the Bohr radius, 4/5. The approximate degenerate value yielded of t P is the square root of v n raised to the exponent −1−1−6/7−4/5 divided by 4π is 5.51548 × 10 −44 s, and the known value is 5.39124 × 10 −44 s. The predicted degener- ate value of Newton's gravitation constant G is 6.9854466 × 10 −11 m 3 kg −1 s −2 , whereas its known value is 6.67428 × 10 −11 m 3 kg −1 s −2 . Using the hydrogen line values a more precise prediction can be made beyond what can be measured. Two points define the t P 2 line, (0, −b wk −b em ) and (−1, −a wk ). The intercept of this line at the sum of the quantum fractions (−128/35 −1) representing t P 2 is used to derive t P. The hydrogen line derived t P value is 5.391141 × 10 −44 s. The hydrogen line derived G value is 6.6740402 × 10 −11 m 3 kg −1 s −2 . These derived values are within the known uncertainties. This method bridges from subatomic properties of hydrogen to gravity unifying these two systems and multiple forces.
Design-Time Optimization of Post-Silicon Tuned Circuits Using Adaptive Body Bias

Adaptive body biasing is a powerful technique that allows post-silicon tuning of individual manufactured dies such that each die optimally meets the delay and power constraints. Assigning individual bias control to each gate leads to severe overhead, rendering the method impractical. However, assigning a single bias control to all gates in the circuit prevents the method from compensating for intra-die variation and greatly reduces its effectiveness. In this paper, we propose a new variability-aware method that clusters gates at design time into a handful of carefully chosen independent body-bias groups, which are then individually tuned post-silicon for each die. We show that this allows us to obtain near-optimal performance and power characteristics with minimal overhead. For each gate, we generate the probability distribution of its post-silicon ideal body bias voltage using an efficient sampling method. We then use these distributions and their correlations to drive a statistically aware clustering technique. We study the physical design constraints and show how the area and wirelength overhead can be significantly limited using the proposed method. Compared with a fixed design-time based dual threshold voltage assignment method, we improve leakage power by 38%-68% while simultaneously reducing the standard deviation of delay by two to nine times.
Testing the Empirical Shock Arrival Model Using Quadrature Observations

The empirical shock arrival (ESA) model was developed based on quadrature data from Helios (in situ) and P-78 (remote sensing) to predict the Sun-Earth travel time of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The ESA model requires earthward CME speed as input, which is not directly measurable from coronagraphs along the Sun-Earth line. The Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) and the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) were in quadrature during 20102012, so the speeds of Earth-directed CMEs were observed with minimal projection effects. We identified a set of 20 full halo CMEs in the field of view of SOHO that were also observed in quadrature by STEREO. We used the earthward speed from STEREO measurements as input to the ESA model and compared the resulting travel times with the observed ones from L1 monitors. We find that the model predicts the CME travel time within about 7.3 h, which is similar to the predictions by the ENLIL model. We also find that CME-CME and CME-coronal hole interaction can lead to large deviations from model predictions.